The rate in context
On a $400,000 home, 0.29% means roughly $1,160 per year in property tax, escrowed monthly, so it lands directly in your payment and your debt-to-income ratio.
Exemptions and notes
The only state that funds K-12 education entirely at the state level, which is why the effective rate is the nation's lowest. Counties offer homeowner exemptions (Honolulu's is $120,000).
Sources: Tax Foundation 2026 (2024 ACS); NAR/NCSL transfer tax table. County-level rates vary; your county page has local detail.
Counties in Hawaii
FAQ
What is the average property tax rate in Hawaii?
The average effective property tax rate in Hawaii is about 0.29%, per Tax Foundation 2026 (2024 ACS); NAR/NCSL transfer tax table. Individual counties vary above and below that average.
How do Hawaii property taxes affect my mortgage?
Taxes are escrowed into your monthly payment, so a higher rate directly reduces how much house you qualify for. The only state that funds K-12 education entirely at the state level, which is why the effective rate is the nation's lowest. Counties offer homeowner exemptions (Honolulu's is $120,000).