How Property Taxes Work in Cabarrus County: A Complete Guide for Homebuyers
Property taxes are often overlooked during the early stages of a home search, but they play a HUGE role in affordability. In fast-growing markets like Concord, Harrisburg, Kannapolis, and Huntersville, buyers regularly compare neighborhoods based on taxes just as much as schools, commute times, and amenities.
This guide breaks down exactly how property taxes work, why they vary, and what every Cabarrus County buyer should understand before making an offer.
1. How Property Taxes Are Calculated
Cabarrus County uses a simple formula:
Assessed Value × Tax Rate = Annual Property Tax
Assessed Value is determined by the county during its valuation cycle.
Tax Rate includes both county and municipal rates depending on where you live.
Cabarrus County tax rates vary depending on whether you're inside city limits or in an unincorporated area, and if your home falls within a specific fire or service district.
2. How Often Properties Are Reassessed
Revaluations typically occur every 4–8 years. Because Cabarrus County is experiencing:
population growth
development
rising home values
assessments can increase during these cycles. This doesn’t mean your taxes automatically skyrocket—it depends on how your property’s value changed relative to the county average.
3. Tax Rate Differences by City
While exact numbers change annually, here’s how differences typically break down:
Concord: Usually moderate, reflecting strong services, schools, and city infrastructure.
Harrisburg: Often slightly higher due to rapid growth and town development projects.
Kannapolis: Historically competitive rates thanks to revitalization and mixed-use growth.
Huntersville (Mecklenburg County side): Rates differ because it's outside Cabarrus, but many Cabarrus buyers compare the two.
Even a small tax-rate difference can affect monthly mortgage costs by hundreds per year.
4. Exemptions That Lower Taxes
Cabarrus County offers:
Homestead Exemption for primary residences
Senior exemptions (age or income-based)
Veteran exemptions
Disabled homeowner exemptions
Many buyers don’t know they qualify until they talk to a local agent or lender.
5. Why Property Taxes Matter for Buyers
Property taxes impact:
total monthly housing payment
long-term affordability
loan approval ratios
resale value
neighborhood desirability
Areas with strong schools, well-maintained infrastructure, and services typically have slightly higher taxes—but also higher home appreciation.
6. How Buyers Should Compare Taxes Between Cities
When deciding between Concord, Harrisburg, Kannapolis, and Huntersville, focus on:
cost vs. amenities
commute vs. tax rate
school zone value
planned development
resale potential
Lower taxes don’t always mean better value—sometimes higher-tax areas offer better long-term appreciation.
Bottom Line
Understanding property taxes helps Cabarrus County buyers make smarter decisions, reduce surprises, and choose neighborhoods that align with both lifestyle and budget.
