What You’ll Pay in Property Taxes in Sammamish
Are you prepared for the hidden costs of homeownership in Sammamish? Property taxes are one expense that can catch new buyers off guard. The typical property tax rate in Sammamish is around 0.9% annually, which is in line with the Washington state average. Property taxes in Sammamish generally fall between 0.8%–1.2% per year, depending on your home’s assessed value and specific location.
For a home valued at $800,000, which is common in Sammamish, annual property taxes would come to about $7,200 at a 0.9% rate. It’s important to factor this ongoing expense into your homeownership budget. Unexpected fees when moving to Sammamish can add up quickly if you’re not prepared.
How HOA Fees Work in Sammamish
In addition to property taxes, many Sammamish neighborhoods have Homeowners Association (HOA) fees. These monthly dues cover shared costs and amenities in your community. Common items included in Sammamish HOA fees are:
- Trash and recycling collection
- Landscaping and yard maintenance
- Community pool and fitness center access
- Neighborhood security patrols
- Clubhouse and common area upkeep
- Tennis courts and sports facilities
The more amenities and services your neighborhood provides, the higher the monthly HOA fees will likely be. In Sammamish, it’s common for HOAs to also cover irrigation costs and some exterior maintenance. This can be convenient, but comes at a price.
Typical Monthly HOA Costs
HOA fees in Sammamish typically range from $200 to over $500 per month. Neighborhoods with fewer amenities tend to have lower HOA dues, usually between $200–$350 monthly. For luxury developments with extensive features and services, fees of $400+ are common.
| Neighborhood Type | Typical Monthly HOA Fee |
|---|---|
| Modest older development | $200 – $275 |
| Average suburban community | $300 – $450 |
| Luxury neighborhood | $475 – $600+ |
| Example: $900K home, 0.9% tax, $350 HOA | $1,025 per month |
For a realistic Sammamish example, let’s consider a $900,000 home with a 0.9% property tax rate and $350 monthly HOA fee. The combined cost would be around $1,025 per month. That’s a significant chunk of your housing budget on top of the mortgage, so it’s crucial to understand these expenses before buying.
Hidden or Seasonal Fees to Expect
Beyond the standard monthly costs, there are some hidden or seasonal fees that Sammamish homeowners may encounter:
- Special assessments – HOAs can charge extra fees for major repairs or improvement projects
- Permitting costs – Making changes to your home often requires permits and fees to the city
- Utility surcharges – Sammamish has higher than average water costs, and summer irrigation fees can add $50+ per month
- Parking or storage fees – Some neighborhoods charge extra for parking spaces or storage units
While these costs don’t apply every month, they can add up over the course of the year. It’s a good idea to maintain a buffer in your budget for unexpected homeownership expenses.
Are These Costs Worth It?
Given the high price of homes in Sammamish, are the property taxes and HOA fees justified? For many residents, the answer is yes. Sammamish offers an exceptional quality of life, with top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of community. The city is also known for its safety and small-town feel, despite being close to major employment centers.
In terms of property values, Sammamish has a track record of strong appreciation. Homes in neighborhoods with active HOAs and desirable amenities are especially likely to retain their value. The average home price in Sammamish has consistently risen over the past decade.
Ultimately, whether the costs are “worth it” depends on your personal priorities and budget. Sammamish offers a premium lifestyle, but it comes at a cost. Homeowners need to weigh the tradeoffs of higher taxes and fees against the benefits of living in such a sought-after community.
FAQs About Property Tax and HOA in Sammamish
How much is the average HOA fee in Sammamish?
HOA fees in Sammamish typically fall between $200 – $600 per month, with most neighborhoods in the $300 – $450 range. Luxury communities can have dues of $500+.
Can my HOA fees increase?
Yes, HOA fees can increase over time to keep up with inflation, rising maintenance costs, and new projects. However, there are limits on how much they can go up each year.
Do I pay both property tax and HOA fees?
Yes, property taxes and HOA dues are separate expenses. Property taxes go to the city and county, while HOA fees pay for amenities and maintenance in your specific neighborhood.
How do Sammamish property taxes compare to nearby cities?
Sammamish’s property tax rate of 0.9% is similar to other upscale Eastside cities like Redmond and Issaquah. It’s slightly lower than Bellevue and Kirkland.
Are HOA fees tax-deductible?
In most cases, no. HOA fees are considered a personal expense by the IRS. However, if you rent out your home, you may be able to deduct HOA dues as a rental expense.
Final Cost Insights for Sammamish Homeowners
Buying a home in Sammamish comes with significant costs beyond the list price. Between property taxes and HOA fees, owners can expect to pay an additional 1.2% – 2.0% of their home’s value each year. For a typical $900,000 house, that equates to $900 – $1,500 per month.
While these costs are high, they are on par with other desirable Seattle-area suburbs. Sammamish residents get a lot in return, including excellent amenities, strong property values, and an unbeatable quality of life. With proper budgeting and long-term planning, the benefits of Sammamish homeownership can outweigh the costs.
Prospective buyers should carefully review all recurring costs and fees before making an offer on a Sammamish home. Make sure to factor in unexpected expenses beyond the monthly mortgage payment. A good rule of thumb is to budget an extra 1.5% of the purchase price annually for taxes, HOA dues, and maintenance.
For more information on Sammamish housing costs and trends, check out our in-depth guide to local home prices and rents. With careful research and realistic expectations, you can successfully navigate the Sammamish real estate market and find the right home for your needs and budget.