How Do Property Taxes Compare in Lake County vs Orange County?

When you’re buying a home in Central Florida, it’s easy to focus on the sale price — but one of the biggest long-term costs is property taxes. And if you’re trying to decide between Lake County and Orange County, those yearly tax bills can vary more than you might think.

Here’s a breakdown of how property taxes compare between the two — and how to factor them into your budget when buying.

💰 First, How Are Property Taxes Calculated in Florida?

In Florida, property taxes are based on:

• Your home’s assessed value (after exemptions)

• The millage rate set by local governments

• Any exemptions you qualify for (like the Florida Homestead Exemption)

So two homes with the same purchase price can have very different tax bills depending on location, usage, and exemptions.

📍 Orange County: Higher Taxes, More Services

Orange County includes high-demand areas like:

• Downtown Orlando

• Winter Garden

• Horizon West

• Lake Nona

In 2024, the average combined millage rate in Orange County (including city, county, and school taxes) ranges from 16.0 to 21.0 mills, depending on the municipality.

✅ Pros:

• Access to major infrastructure (airports, hospitals, schools)

• Urban services and amenities

• More public transit and road funding

❌ Cons:

• Higher average property tax bills

• More potential for city-level taxes (especially within Orlando city limits)

Example: A $400,000 home in unincorporated Orange County may have a tax bill between $6,500–$7,500 before exemptions.

🏞️ Lake County: Lower Taxes, Growing Demand

Lake County includes communities like:

• Clermont

• Mount Dora

• Howey-in-the-Hills

• Tavares

Millage rates in Lake County are generally lower than in Orange, averaging around 15.0 to 17.5 mills, depending on whether you’re inside city limits or in unincorporated areas.

✅ Pros:

• Lower property tax rates

• Fewer city-level assessments in many areas

• Potentially higher value per dollar

❌ Cons:

• Fewer urban services and public amenities (but growing fast!)

• Longer commutes for some buyers working in Orlando

Example: A $400,000 home in Clermont may see a tax bill closer to $5,800–$6,400 before exemptions.

🧮 What About the Homestead Exemption?

Florida offers a $50,000 homestead exemption on your primary residence, which reduces your taxable value — and can save most homeowners hundreds per year.

Both Orange and Lake County offer the same exemption, but because Orange often starts with a higher tax base, your relative savings may vary.

🏘️ Why This Matters for Buyers

When budgeting your monthly expenses, it’s easy to focus on principal, interest, and insurance — but property taxes are a major part of your escrow. A home with lower taxes could help:

• Keep your monthly payment lower

• Reduce your overall cost of ownership

• Free up room in your budget for updates, savings, or lifestyle expenses

If you're choosing between two similar homes in different counties, those annual tax bills could be the deciding factor.

👋 Need Help Comparing Homes Across County Lines?

I work with buyers across Lake and Orange counties every day — and I can help you compare not just prices, but true cost of living.

📩 Reach out if you’d like a side-by-side breakdown of tax estimates, HOA fees, or school zones. Let’s find the best match for your budget and lifestyle.

🧠 Final Thought

Lake County generally offers lower property taxes than Orange County — but it depends on the exact city, neighborhood, and exemptions. Smart buyers consider the whole financial picture, not just the price tag.