New Yorkers Hate Property Taxes More Than Anything Else

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A nationwide poll shows that when it comes to taxes, New Yorkers are pretty much united on one thing: property taxes are public enemy number one. The survey, conducted by 5StarLoans.com, asked more than 3,000 people across the country which taxes they dislike the most, and in New York, the answer was clear - property taxes are the most hated tax.

Why it matters

Property tax ranks as the most hated tax in New York, and for a lot of residents, that's no surprise at all. New York homeowners face some of the highest property tax rates in the country, and for many families, it is not just an annual expense; it is a major financial decision that affects whether they can stay in their homes long term. The frustration stems from the feeling that services do not always match the cost, as roads still need repairs, schools are still fundraising, and local budgets always seem tight, even as property tax bills continue to rise.

The details

The survey also found that the second-most-disliked tax in New York is the annual vehicle registration fee, which hits a more emotional chord for many people. Drivers already pay for the car itself, insurance, inspections, gas, and maintenance, and then they have to pay again just to keep the car legally on the road. Coming in third are utility and service surcharges, the extra fees that quietly show up on electric, gas, water, and other household bills, which create the feeling of being charged extra just for basic necessities.

• The survey was conducted in 2026.