policy
Scottsdale Raises Property Tax Rate to 1.85 Per $100 Assessed Value
The change sets the primary property tax rate at 1.85 per $100 of assessed value, directly shaping annual bills for Scottsdale homeowners and businesses.
How we reported this
The Scottsdale City Council approved the fiscal year 2027 operating budget on July 7, setting the primary property tax rate at 1.85 per $100 of assessed value. The adjustment applies to all residential and commercial properties within city limits and funds core services such as police, fire protection and street maintenance.
Why the Rate Change Occurs Now
City budget documents show that assessed property values rose 6 percent over the past year while operating costs for public safety increased by $12 million. The new rate offsets part of those expenses without exceeding the state-mandated levy limit. Policy analysts note that similar adjustments occurred in 2023 and 2025 when assessed values climbed at comparable rates.
Local advocates note that the rate remains below the 2.00 level recorded in fiscal year 2022. The adopted budget totals $1.28 billion, with 38 percent allocated to public safety and 22 percent to community services. These figures come directly from the city’s published budget summary released on July 8.
Effects on Scottsdale Households and Businesses
A median-valued Scottsdale home assessed at $650,000 will see a primary tax bill of approximately $12,025 under the new rate. Commercial properties along Scottsdale Road face proportional increases based on their assessed values. The city projects that the adjustment will generate an additional $8.4 million in primary tax revenue compared with the prior year.
Community voices have focused on how the revenue supports daily operations. Residents who rely on city parks programs or emergency response times will see continued funding levels rather than reductions. The budget also maintains the current number of full-time firefighter positions at 312.
The next step occurs when the Maricopa County Treasurer mails property tax statements in November. Payments are due in two installments, with the first due December 31. City staff will hold two public information sessions on the statements in October at the Scottsdale Civic Center.