Baltimore, December 31, 2025
Maryland property tax assessments are projected to rise by an average of 12.7% in 2026 amid a continued upward trend. This increase reflects the reassessment of nearly 789,000 properties across the state, with significant value hikes reported, especially in Washington County. While residential properties saw a 13.2% increase, commercial properties rose by 11%. Homeowners can expect assessment notices soon, with the option to appeal within 45 days.
Maryland Property Tax Assessments to Rise by Average of 12.7% in 2026
Baltimore, Maryland – Property tax assessments in Maryland are set to increase by an average of 12.7% in 2026, continuing a yearslong upward trend, though at a slower pace than previous years. This adjustment reflects the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation’s (SDAT) 2026 “Group 2” reassessment, which covers nearly 789,000 residential and commercial properties statewide. Notably, 92.7% of residential properties in this group experienced an increase in value.
The statewide average increase comprises a 13.2% rise in residential property values and an 11% increase in commercial property values. While property values continue to rise, the growth rate has slowed compared to recent years, with previous assessments showing increases of 20.1% in 2025 and 23.4% in 2024.
All 23 counties and Baltimore City reported increases in property values. For instance, Washington County in Western Maryland saw the most significant increase, with combined residential and commercial property values rising by 19.5%. Residential property values in Washington County increased by 22.8%, the highest in the state.
Property owners in Group 2 will receive their assessment notices soon. Appeals must be filed within 45 days of the notice date. Each reassessment notice will indicate whether the property is the owner’s principal residence and will show the status of their homestead tax credit application.
Maryland’s Homestead Tax Credit program caps annual property tax assessment increases at 10% for primary residences. However, many local governments have set lower caps. For example, Baltimore City and Baltimore County both have 4% annual caps on taxable assessments. These caps help mitigate the impact of rising property values on homeowners.
For more information on the reassessment process and available tax relief programs, property owners are encouraged to visit the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average increase in property tax assessments in Maryland for 2026?
The average increase in property tax assessments in Maryland for 2026 is 12.7%, continuing a yearslong upward trend, though at a slower pace than previous years.
Which areas in Maryland experienced the highest property value increases?
Washington County in Western Maryland saw the most significant increase, with combined residential and commercial property values rising by 19.5%. Residential property values in Washington County increased by 22.8%, the highest in the state.
How can property owners appeal their new assessments?
Property owners in Group 2 will receive their assessment notices soon. Appeals must be filed within 45 days of the notice date. Each reassessment notice will indicate whether the property is the owner’s principal residence and will show the status of their homestead tax credit application.
What is the Homestead Tax Credit, and how does it affect property assessments?
Maryland’s Homestead Tax Credit program caps annual property tax assessment increases at 10% for primary residences. However, many local governments have set lower caps. For example, Baltimore City and Baltimore County both have 4% annual caps on taxable assessments. These caps help mitigate the impact of rising property values on homeowners.
Key Features of Maryland’s 2026 Property Tax Assessments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Increase | 12.7% statewide |
| Residential Property Increase | 13.2% average |
| Commercial Property Increase | 11% average |
| Highest Increase | Washington County: 19.5% overall; 22.8% residential |
| Appeal Period | 45 days from notice date |
| Homestead Tax Credit Cap | 10% statewide; lower caps in some counties (e.g., 4% in Baltimore City and Baltimore County) |
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