Republican Governor Pushes Breakthrough Plan to Eliminate Property Taxes for Homeowners
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is advancing a landmark proposal that could deliver one of the biggest financial wins American homeowners have seen in decades — a plan to completely eliminate property taxes on primary residences. For millions of retirees, fixed-income families, and hardworking homeowners struggling under rising costs, the message is simple: real relief is finally on the way.
During an interview on FOX Business’ Varney & Co., DeSantis said what many Americans already feel — the economy may be recovering in some areas, but local property taxes are squeezing homeowners harder than ever.
“People are being pinched across the economy… Local property taxes are hurting people,” DeSantis said, calling out years of overspending by local governments. “At some point, enough is enough.”
A First-in-America Tax Break That Could Transform Homeownership
DeSantis reiterated that his long-term goal is bold but attainable: completely eliminating property taxes for Florida residents living in their primary homes. If approved, Florida would become:
- The first state in the nation to abolish property taxes on primary residences
- One of the most attractive states for retirees and families, especially with no state income tax
- A national leader in financial freedom and conservative fiscal reform
Lawmakers in the Florida House are already moving a reform package that includes:
- A $500,000 homestead exemption
- Up to $1 million in exemptions for seniors
- A cap on assessment increases
- And the option to completely remove property taxes on homesteads
This is exactly the kind of taxpayer-first leadership older Americans have been demanding.
Why Property Tax Relief Matters Right Now
According to the Florida Policy Institute, property taxes generate roughly $55 billion per year. But for many families, it feels like they’re getting less while paying more. Schools aren’t improving, local services aren’t getting better, yet the bills keep climbing.
Eliminating property taxes could force local governments to finally rein in spending — something conservative voters have called for repeatedly.
While some analysts warn the state may need to adjust other revenue sources, DeSantis says Florida’s booming economy and huge influx of new residents have strengthened the state’s financial footing. The governor also noted a key fact many never hear:
Around 30% of Florida’s property tax revenue comes from out-of-state homeowners and commercial properties.
That means Florida residents are carrying far less of the burden than they used to — and a gradual phase-out is absolutely achievable.
The proposal will require 60% voter approval on the 2026 ballot, but early reactions among homeowners — especially seniors — have been overwhelmingly positive.
Home Values Have Exploded — And So Have Tax Bills
DeSantis highlighted what countless families have experienced firsthand: property values soared after the COVID migration boom, and taxes shot up with them.
Imagine buying a home for $350,000… and four years later the government claims it’s worth $1 million — and demands more taxes.
“It’s not right,” DeSantis said. And millions of Americans agree.
The governor noted that since 2019, property tax revenues have risen dramatically, allowing Florida to build one of the strongest rainy-day funds in the country. Yet homeowners have not seen the benefit.
A Game-Changer for Retirees and Fixed-Income Americans
For seniors and adults 50+, this proposal could be life-changing:
- No more unpredictable property tax hikes
- No fear of being taxed out of your home
- More financial stability during retirement
- A safer, more secure future for families
Florida already attracts Americans seeking lower taxes and a better quality of life. This reform would cement the state as the nation’s top destination for retirement and financial freedom.
The Bottom Line
The GOP and Gov. DeSantis are pushing one of the most significant tax reforms in modern American history. If the proposal succeeds, Floridians could soon enjoy something no other state offers:
A home you own — without the government charging you every year just for living in it.
For millions of Americans fed up with big government, runaway spending, and rising taxes, this is the kind of leadership they’ve been waiting for.
