When Tanya and Mark closed on their charming Craftsman home in Everett’s Silver Lake neighborhood, they felt prepared. They had saved diligently, locked in a favorable mortgage rate, and budgeted for monthly payments and property taxes. But their first HOA bill caught them off guard — an extra $180 per month they hadn’t factored in. “No one told us about the HOA fees,” Tanya lamented. “We love the neighborhood, but it’s an added cost we’re still adjusting to.”
Tanya and Mark’s story is a common one, especially for first-time homebuyers. While most prospective buyers in Everett know to budget for a mortgage and property taxes, unexpected fees can add up quickly when moving to a new city. HOA charges, in particular, often fly under the radar until that first monthly bill arrives. So what can you realistically expect to pay in property taxes and HOA fees in Everett? Let’s break it down.
What You’ll Pay in Property Taxes in Everett
First, the good news: property tax rates in Washington tend to be lower than the national average, generally ranging between 0.6%–1.2%. In Everett specifically, most homeowners can expect to pay around 0.8%–1.1% of their home’s assessed value in property taxes each year.
For a home valued at $450,000 (slightly above Everett’s median home price in 2025), that translates to approximately $3,600–$4,950 per year, or $300–$413 per month. Keep in mind that assessed values and tax rates can fluctuate year to year, so it’s wise to budget a bit of wiggle room.
Property taxes in Everett help fund essential city services, public schools, libraries, parks, and infrastructure maintenance. While no one loves paying taxes, these funds play a vital role in maintaining the quality of life and amenities that make Everett an attractive place to call home.
How HOA Fees Work in Everett
If you’re considering a home in one of Everett’s many planned developments or gated communities, you’ll likely encounter Homeowners Association (HOA) fees. These monthly charges cover shared expenses and amenities within the neighborhood, such as:
- Trash collection and recycling
- Landscaping and common area maintenance
- Community pool, fitness center, or clubhouse upkeep
- Neighborhood security or patrol services
- Exterior building maintenance (for condos or townhomes)
- Irrigation and xeriscaping services to minimize water usage
The specifics of what’s included can vary significantly from one HOA to another. In general, neighborhoods with more extensive amenities and services will have higher monthly fees, while more modest communities may have lower costs.
It’s important to carefully review the HOA’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) before purchasing a home to understand exactly what you’re signing up for. Some HOAs have strict rules around exterior home colors, landscaping, parking, or pet ownership that may not align with your lifestyle preferences.
Typical Monthly HOA Costs
So what can you expect to pay in HOA fees in Everett? While costs can range anywhere from $50 to over $1,000 per month, most homeowners fall somewhere in the middle. Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Neighborhood Type | Typical HOA Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Modest older development with minimal amenities | $50–$150 per month |
| Average suburban neighborhood with basic amenities | $150–$300 per month |
| Upscale planned community with extensive amenities | $300–$600+ per month |
For example, let’s say you purchase a $450,000 home in a neighborhood with a $250 monthly HOA fee and a 0.9% property tax rate. Based on those figures, you’d be looking at a monthly housing cost breakdown of:
- Mortgage (assuming 10% down): $1,900
- Property taxes: $338
- HOA fees: $250
- Total monthly cost: $2,488
As you can see, the total monthly cost of housing in Everett involves a lot more than just the mortgage payment itself. Factoring in property taxes and HOA fees from the start can help you budget more accurately and avoid unwelcome surprises down the road.
Hidden or Seasonal Fees to Expect
Beyond monthly HOA dues, there are a few other fees that Everett homeowners should be aware of:
- Special assessments: If the HOA faces an unexpected major expense (like repairing damage from a severe storm), they may levy a one-time special assessment to cover the costs.
- Irrigation surcharges: Some neighborhoods tack on extra fees during summer months to cover increased water usage for landscaping. These can add $20–$50 per month seasonally.
- Parking or storage fees: If your home doesn’t include a garage or dedicated parking space, you may need to pay extra for a spot in the neighborhood lot.
- New development fees: If you’re purchasing a home in a brand-new neighborhood, the developer may charge extra fees to help offset initial construction costs for shared amenities.
While not all of these fees apply in every situation, it’s good to be aware of the possibilities and ask questions upfront, so you know what to expect before signing on the dotted line.
Are These Costs Worth It?
Given all these extra fees, you may be wondering: is it really worth buying into an HOA neighborhood? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities.
On the plus side, HOA neighborhoods often boast well-maintained common areas, attractive landscaping, and a cohesive aesthetic that can help protect property values over time. The amenities — like pools, gyms, and social spaces — provide convenient recreational opportunities right outside your front door. And having a third party handle exterior maintenance and repairs can be a relief for busy homeowners.
However, those perks come at a cost that goes beyond just dollars and cents. HOA rules and restrictions can feel limiting to some homeowners, dictating everything from what color you can paint your front door to where you can park your boat. And dealing with HOA bureaucracy and red tape can be a headache in itself.
In Everett, well-managed HOA neighborhoods with thoughtful amenities do tend to command somewhat higher resale values than comparable homes without HOAs. But you’ll need to weigh the tradeoffs to decide if the lifestyle and costs are a fit for you.
FAQs About Property Tax and HOA in Everett
How much is the average HOA fee in Everett?
While costs vary, most Everett homeowners can expect to pay between $150–$400 per month in HOA fees. Neighborhoods with more extensive amenities tend to have higher fees.
Can my HOA fees increase?
Yes. HOA fees are subject to change over time, and increases are common to keep up with inflation and rising maintenance costs. However, HOAs must follow set procedures for enacting fee increases, which homeowners can vote on.
Do I pay both property tax and HOA fees?
Yes. Property taxes are paid to the city and county, while HOA fees are paid to your neighborhood association. They are separate expenses, both of which are typically paid monthly.
How do Everett’s property taxes compare to neighboring cities?
Everett’s property tax rates (0.8%–1.1%) are generally in line with other cities in Snohomish County. Rates in nearby Mill Creek and Lynnwood are similar, while rates in Mukilteo tend to be slightly lower.
Is an HOA worth it for first-time homeowners?
It depends on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences. HOA neighborhoods can offer attractive amenities and a low-maintenance lifestyle — but those perks come with higher monthly costs and less flexibility than non-HOA alternatives. It’s a personal choice.
The Bottom Line for Everett Homeowners
Owning a home in Everett comes with monthly costs beyond just the mortgage itself. Property taxes typically add 0.8%–1.1% of the home’s value to the annual bill, while HOA fees commonly range from $150–$400 per month (but can climb much higher in amenity-rich communities).
While these costs are a reality of homeownership in Everett, being aware of them from the start can help you plan and budget more effectively — and ultimately find a home and neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. With a little research and preparation, you can confidently navigate the hidden costs of putting down roots in this vibrant Pacific Northwest city.