When buyers start comparing homes in the Charlotte area, one of the first surprises is how much property taxes vary from one side of the border to the other.
In 2025, York County, South Carolina, and Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, remain two of the most popular options for homeowners in the region — but they’re not equal when it comes to taxes.
Here’s a straightforward look at how they compare and what those differences mean for your bottom line.

1. The Basics of Property Taxes
Property taxes are based on two things:


The assessed value of your home, and


The tax rate set by your county and local municipality.


Even small differences in those rates can add up to thousands of dollars each year — especially on higher-priced homes.

2. York County, SC: Lower Rates, Bigger Savings
Homeowners in York County benefit from some of the lowest property tax rates in the Charlotte metro area.


Effective tax rate (2025 estimate): roughly 0.5 % ...