When you own residential property in Arlington County—or are thinking about buying or selling—understanding your annual tax liability is crucial. With property assessments on the rise and fee increases on the table, many Arlington homeowners are asking: will my property taxes go up in 2026?
The short answer: yes, for most. While Arlington’s real estate tax rate remains stable, rising property values and higher household service fees are increasing the total cost of ownership.
In this updated article, you’ll learn:
-
What’s changing in Arlington’s real estate tax structure for 2026
-
How property assessments are determined and why they’re trending upward
-
What additional fees (waste, water, sewer) may hit your budget
-
How to appeal a high property assessment
-
What this means for buyers, sellers, and homeowners planning ahead
Market Snapshot: Arlington County Real Estate Taxes in 2026
Here’s the current property tax context so you can understand the full picture before buying, selling, or budgeting for your next year:
-
Arlington County’s FY26 budget is $1.55 billion, a 3.5% increase over FY25.
-
The residential real estate tax rate is unchanged at $1.033 per $100 of assessed value.
-
However, average residential assessments rose 3.7% year-over-year—from ~$824,700 to ~$854,900.
-
This results in the average homeowner paying about $312 more in taxes and fees in 2026.
This underscores why even without a rate increase, your property tax bill may still go up significantly.
Why Your Property Taxes Are Likely to Increase
Assessment Growth: Market Value Drives Your Bill
In Arlington, assessments reflect market value. If similar homes nearby are selling for more, your assessed value may go up—even if you haven’t renovated or added space.
Residential values are rising due to demand, limited supply, and strong employment in D.C., Northern Virginia, and Arlington itself.
Fee Increases Compound the Impact
Beyond your real estate taxes, the county has increased household solid waste fees and water/sewer rates:
-
Solid waste fees jumped by $98 to cover rising collection/disposal costs.
-
Water/sewer fees are increasing to fund critical infrastructure upgrades.
When combined, these increases mean your total homeowner costs are going up, regardless of tax rate stability.
Understanding the Arlington Assessment Process
-
The Department of Real Estate Assessments bases your annual property value on comparable sales, market conditions, and property characteristics.
-
Notices are mailed each January and reflect market value as of January 1.
-
Assessments include land value + building value and are used to calculate your real estate tax.
Want to see your assessment? Use the County’s Real Estate Assessment Lookup.
How to Appeal a High Property Assessment
Think your home was over-assessed? You have options:
-
Review your assessment online and compare to similar homes in your area.
-
File an appeal with the Department of Real Estate Assessments before the stated deadline.
-
If not resolved, request a second-level appeal with the Board of Equalization.
You’ll need evidence: photos, condition reports, sales comps, or renovation records.
What This Means for Arlington Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers: Include increased tax/fee projections in your purchase planning. Even a modest rise in assessments can affect affordability and monthly escrow requirements.
For Sellers: Be ready for buyers to ask about taxes and utilities. Rising costs can affect offer strength and price sensitivity. If your assessment rose significantly, know how to explain it—and if needed, appeal it before listing.
Special Notes for Relocating Professionals
Arlington remains a popular destination for federal employees, military families, tech professionals, and contractors. But understanding the full cost of homeownership—including taxes and fees—is critical when relocating.
We help military, government, and Foreign Service buyers navigate both the property selection and cost analysis.
Looking Ahead: FY27–28 Tax Outlook
Arlington’s budget forecast predicts:
-
Slower residential growth (~1.5–2.0%) in future assessment cycles
-
Potential for rising pressure on residential taxes due to flat commercial values
-
Continued infrastructure investments that may drive moderate fee increases
Staying informed will help you plan effectively—whether you’re buying, selling, or holding.
Final Thoughts: Will You Pay More in 2026?
Most Arlington homeowners will see their property tax bills rise in 2026, even with the tax rate holding steady. Higher assessments and increased municipal fees are contributing to this upward shift.
Whether you’re a current owner or looking to buy in Arlington County, understanding your assessment and total tax picture is essential.
Take Action: What to Do Next
-
Review your assessment now — Use Arlington’s lookup tool.
-
Contact us to get a personalized market analysis or discuss tax planning before buying or selling.
-
Appeal if necessary — We’ll help you understand if your assessment seems inaccurate.
-
Plan ahead — Whether buying, selling, or investing, account for rising property-related expenses.
For customized guidance on navigating Arlington’s 2026 tax landscape—or for help with your next home purchase, sale, or investment—contact Brad Winkelmann at Arlington Abodes Realty.
Call: 703.850.5223
Email: brad@arlingtonabodes.com
We’re here to help you buy and sell smart in Arlington, VA and throughout Northern Virginia.
