Savannah sets public hearings to keep lowest tax rate since 1987

by Shakuria Smith

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah leaders are considering keeping the city’s property tax rate unchanged for another year, which would maintain the lowest millage rate since 1987.

The Mayor and Aldermen will consider adopting a 2026 millage rate of 11.749 mills, the same rate approved in 2025 and used to develop the city’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

Although the proposed rate would not increase, Georgia law requires the city to advertise it as a property tax increase because it is higher than the state’s calculated rollback rate of 11.402 mills, which accounts for rising property values.

City of Savannah to Consider Maintaining Lowest Millage Rate Since 1987

For homeowners whose property values increased and who do not qualify for the Stephens-Day Exemption, the city estimates taxes would increase about 3% over the rollback rate. For example, a home with a fair market value of $375,000 would see an estimated annual increase of about $52.05.

State law requires three public hearings before the millage rate can be adopted. Residents will have an opportunity to comment before City Council takes a final vote.