Quick Answer

A $400,000 property sale with a 0.50% state rate and 0.11% county rate has an estimated total transfer tax of approximately $2,440.00.

Property Sale Price ($)

State Transfer Tax Rate (%)

Varies by state (0% to 2.5%+)

County / Local Tax Rate (%)

Not all areas have a local tax; enter 0 if none

Common Examples

Input	Result
$400,000 sale, 0.50% state, 0.11% county	Estimated transfer tax: approximately $2,440.00
$300,000 sale, 0.35% state, 0.15% county	Estimated transfer tax: approximately $1,500.00
$500,000 sale, 1.00% state, 0.25% county	Estimated transfer tax: approximately $6,250.00
$250,000 sale, 0.10% state, 0.05% county	Estimated transfer tax: approximately $375.00
$750,000 sale, 0.70% state, 0.00% county	Estimated transfer tax: approximately $5,250.00

How It Works

The Transfer Tax Formula

Transfer Tax = Sale Price x (Tax Rate / 100)

Where the tax rate is the combined state and county/local rate. Some jurisdictions charge on the full sale price; others charge on the amount above a threshold.

State vs. County/Local Taxes

Most transfer taxes are imposed at the state level, but many counties and cities add their own tax. The total tax is the sum of all applicable rates. Some states have no transfer tax at all.

Who Pays Transfer Tax?

Transfer tax payment responsibility varies by state and local custom:

• In some states, the seller pays the full amount
• In others, the buyer pays
• In many jurisdictions, the tax is split between buyer and seller
• The allocation is often negotiable as part of the purchase contract

Transfer Tax Rates by State (Selected Examples)

• California: County tax of $1.10 per $1,000 (0.11%); some cities add additional taxes
• New York: State tax of 0.40% (0.65% for NYC); NYC adds 1.0% to 1.425%
• Florida: State tax of 0.70%; Miami-Dade adds 0.45%
• Texas: No state transfer tax
• Pennsylvania: State tax of 1.0%; local tax typically 1.0% (2.0% combined)
• Delaware: State tax of 2.5% (among the highest in the country)

Thirteen states do not impose a real estate transfer tax.

Worked Example

A property sells for $400,000 in a state with a 0.50% transfer tax and a county with a 0.11% tax. State tax = $400,000 x 0.0050 = estimated $2,000. County tax = $400,000 x 0.0011 = estimated $440. Total transfer tax = estimated $2,440. Effective combined rate = ($2,440 / $400,000) x 100 = 0.610%.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a real estate transfer tax?

A real estate transfer tax is a fee imposed by state, county, or local governments when ownership of real property is transferred from one party to another. It is typically calculated as a percentage of the sale price and paid at closing. Transfer taxes are also sometimes called deed taxes, documentary stamp taxes, or conveyance taxes.

Who is responsible for paying transfer tax?

This varies by jurisdiction. In many states, the seller pays the transfer tax. In others, the buyer pays, or the tax is split. The responsibility is often specified by local custom but can be negotiated in the purchase agreement. Check local regulations for the standard in your area.

Are there any exemptions from transfer tax?

Many jurisdictions offer exemptions for certain transfers, such as gifts between family members, transfers due to death (inheritance), government acquisitions, transfers between spouses during divorce, and sales below a minimum threshold. Exemptions vary by state and locality.

How do I find my state and local transfer tax rates?

Transfer tax rates are set by state law and local ordinances. Check your state's department of revenue or taxation website for the state rate. County recorder or assessor offices typically publish local rates. A real estate attorney or title company in your area can also provide current rates.

Is transfer tax deductible on income taxes?

For the seller, transfer taxes are typically treated as a selling expense that reduces the capital gain on the sale, rather than a direct deduction. For the buyer, transfer taxes are added to the cost basis of the property. Specific tax treatment depends on individual circumstances. Consulting a tax professional for personalized guidance is advisable.