Mecklenburg County Property Tax Increase 2025: What Homeowners Need to Know
The Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners has proposed—but not yet passed—a property tax increase. Here’s what’s in the proposal, who it affects most, and how you can make your voice heard.
By Maureen Mahood | SellYourHomeCharlotte
Mecklenburg County is proposing a property tax increase of 0.96 cents per $100 of assessed value, which would raise the total rate to 49.27 cents per $100. While this might seem modest, it translates to about $43 more per year for the average homeowner, based on the April 2025 median home price of $452,981—which breaks down to just around $3.58 more per month added to your mortgage escrow. But what exactly are we getting for this increase, and are there better alternatives?
Why is Mecklenburg County proposing a property tax increase in 2025?
The county faces a $29 million budget shortfall. About half of that stems from last year, when the County used its reserve fund ("rainy day fund") to avoid a tax hike. Now, they're looking to replenish it with a small increase in property taxes.
What does the proposed tax hike pay for?
$28.3 million for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (mostly teacher salaries)
$3.4 million to expand Meck Pre-K (10 classrooms)
$2.3 million for senior home health and adult daycare programs
$2 million for libraries (15 new employees, updated collections)
$15.7 million for county employee raises (3% standard, up to 5% merit-based)
What budget cuts are included?
$13.8 million across 25 county departments
$6 million in nonprofit funding cuts, including eliminating the Community Service Grant Program
How much is in the county's rainy day fund?
The county currently has $563 million in reserves—30% of annual operating expenses. For context, North Carolina recommends counties keep only 8% on hand.
Could the county avoid raising taxes?
Yes. Some alternatives include:
Using more of the rainy day fund (still leaving a healthy balance)
Delaying non-essential capital projects
Charging developers impact fees tied to new growth
Why not just use more of the reserve fund?
The county is using just $30 million from reserves—its smallest dip in over a decade. Officials argue that using more could impact the county's AAA credit rating and leave it vulnerable in a real crisis. Still, critics argue that with over half a billion in reserves, we have more than enough cushion.
Who Pays the Most—and Who Feels It the Most?
Technically, homeowners with higher property values pay more in total dollars when property taxes increase. Someone with a $1 million home will pay significantly more than someone with a $250,000 home under the same rate.
But the real story is about impact.
Higher-income households can absorb increases like $100 or $200 a year without much stress.
Lower- and middle-income households often feel it more, especially if they're on fixed incomes or already stretching their budgets.
In short:
High earners pay more dollars.
Lower earners pay a higher percentage of their income.
That makes even small hikes, like $3–4 a month, a burden for some.
This tax increase has not passed yet. The Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners will vote on the final budget on June 3. If you have strong feelings about this proposal—whether in support or opposition—this is the time to speak up. A public hearing is scheduled for May 29 at 6 PM at the Government Center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the current median home price in Mecklenburg County?
As of April 2025, it is $452,981, a 5% increase from the previous year.
2. How much will the tax hike cost me?
If your home is worth $452,981 (the county median), you’ll pay around $43 more per year, or approximately $3.58 per month.
3. When will this tax increase take effect?
If approved, it will be included in the July 1, 2025 fiscal year budget.
4. Will this increase impact renters?
Indirectly, yes. Landlords may pass increased property taxes onto tenants.
5. What happens if the budget isn't passed?
County services and schools may face cuts. A new budget must be passed by June 30.
6. Can I speak out against or for the increase?
Yes! Attend the public hearing May 29 at 6 PM at the Government Center or email [email protected].
7. Are any departments losing funding?
Yes. 25 departments will see cuts totaling $13.8 million.
8. How does this affect Mecklenburg schools?
The proposed budget fully funds CMS’s request—a win for teachers and students.
9. What services are being expanded?
Meck Pre-K, senior health services, and library resources are all set to grow.
10. How does Mecklenburg's reserve compare to other counties?
It’s among the highest in the state, well above the 8% recommendation.
Important Reminder
We all want better schools, services for seniors, and strong public infrastructure. But at a time when residents are feeling the pinch of inflation, we need transparency and fiscal creativity—not just another reach into homeowners' pockets. The county has options. Let’s demand a more nuanced conversation before normalizing yearly tax increases.
About the Author
Maureen Mahood is the broker-owner of SellYourHomeCharlotte.com, where she’s been helping Charlotte-area homeowners and buyers since 2015. She’s also a local community advocate, neighborhood board member, and passionate voice for transparent, equitable development in Mecklenburg County. Reach her at [email protected] or follow on Facebook.
Want to weigh in? Sign up to speak at the May 29 public hearing at mecknc.seamlessdocs.com/f/clerk or email your comments to [email protected].