Port St. Lucie property tax millage rate has been reduced for the tenth consecutive year, with the Fiscal Year 2025-26 rate set at 4.9750 mills. This change in the property tax rate is central to the city’s ongoing efforts to manage growth and maintain services for residents.

Port St. Lucie Property Tax Rate Drops Again

The new property tax millage rate of 4.9750 mills for FY 2025-26 is a decrease from the previous year’s rate of 5.0550 mills. According to the City of Port St. Lucie, this marks the tenth year in a row that the city has lowered its property tax rate. However, city officials indicate that most homeowners will still see higher property tax bills due to rising property values across Port St. Lucie.

Rising Property Values Affect Tax Bills

While the property tax rate has declined, the assessed value of properties in Port St. Lucie has increased significantly. According to city data, annual reassessments often result in higher property values, especially for new owners or those whose properties have recently changed hands. When properties are sold, previous exemptions and assessment caps are removed, leading to a reset in taxable value.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated in Port St. Lucie

Property taxes in Port St. Lucie are based on the assessed value of a property as of January 1 each year. The millage rate is applied per $1,000 of taxable value. The city only controls a portion of the overall property tax bill; other line items are set by St. Lucie County, the school board, and various special districts.

• Property value is reassessed annually
• Millage rate is set by the City of Port St. Lucie
• Other taxes and fees are added by county and special districts

2025-26 City Budget and Service Demands

According to city officials, the total operating and capital budget for FY 2025-26 is approximately $907.4 million. This budget reflects increased costs and expanded services due to substantial population growth since 2016. The city reports that higher demand for public safety, infrastructure, and community services is a direct result of the growing population.

Population Growth in Port St. Lucie

Port St. Lucie’s population has grown steadily over the past decade. City officials highlight that this growth increases the need for expanded services and staffing, which impacts the city’s budget and spending decisions.

Homestead Exemption Changes and Tax Caps

Florida’s Amendment 5, effective January 1, 2025, will allow the second $25,000 portion of the Homestead Exemption to increase with inflation. This adjustment is designed to slightly offset property tax increases for eligible homeowners. The Save Our Home cap limits annual increases in assessed value for homesteaded properties to 3% or the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower. This benefit only applies after the exemption is granted.

Impact of Homestead Exemption and Save Our Home Cap

• Homestead Exemption provides tax relief for primary residences
• Amendment 5 ties part of the exemption to inflation
• Save Our Home cap limits annual assessed value increases

Understanding Your Property Tax Bill

According to city officials, the city’s portion of the property tax bill is only one part of the total amount due. Other charges, such as non-ad valorem assessments for landscaping, security, or trash services, are separate from ad valorem property taxes and may also impact the total bill. Residents are encouraged to review their annual TRIM (Truth in Millage) notices for detailed information on assessments, exemptions, and how to appeal valuations.

Reviewing TRIM Notices and Assessments

• TRIM notices detail property assessments and tax rates
• Information on exemptions and appeal procedures is included
• Non-ad valorem assessments are listed separately

Public Input and Budget Adoption Process

Public hearings and workshops are held each year to review and adopt the city budget. According to the City of Port St. Lucie, these meetings allow residents to provide input on property tax rates and spending decisions. City officials emphasize their commitment to efficiency and maintaining high-quality services while keeping tax rates among the lowest for large cities in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Property Tax Rate

What is the current Port St. Lucie property tax rate for 2025-26?

The property tax millage rate for Port St. Lucie in Fiscal Year 2025-26 is 4.9750 mills. This rate is applied per $1,000 of taxable property value.

How much will my property tax bill increase if the millage rate is lower?

Even with a lower millage rate, most homeowners will see higher property tax bills if their property values have increased. Rising assessed values are the main reason for higher bills, not the millage rate itself.

Are there exemptions or caps that help reduce property taxes in PSL?

Yes, the Homestead Exemption and the Save Our Home cap can reduce property taxes for eligible homeowners in Port St. Lucie. Amendment 5 will allow part of the exemption to increase with inflation starting in 2025.

Can you appeal your property assessment in Port St. Lucie?

Homeowners can review their assessment on the annual TRIM notice and follow the instructions provided to appeal valuations or exemptions if they disagree with the assessment.

Where are non-ad valorem assessments listed on my tax bill?

Non-ad valorem assessments, such as fees for landscaping or trash, are listed separately from ad valorem property taxes on your TRIM notice. These fees are set by different agencies and can affect the total amount due.