The $1,000 Surprise: Why Boston’s 2026 Tax Hike is the “Final Straw” for Condo Owners
As the first tax bills of 2026 hit inboxes across the South End, Back Bay, and Seaport, many residents are experiencing a sharp case of sticker shock. Following the latest city-wide assessments and the restructuring of residential tax burdens, some condo owners are seeing their annual tax bills jump by $1,000, $2,000, or more.
In a vacuum, a $100-a-month increase might seem manageable. But in the world of real estate strategy, we look at carrying costs. When you layer rising property taxes on top of soaring HOA fees and the premium cost of city parking, the "math" of owning a city condo is fundamentally changing.
The "Wealth Migration" to the South Shore
At The Eisnor Team, we are seeing a distinct trend for 2026: The "Tax Pivot." Successful professionals are realizing that the same monthly carrying costs they pay for a two-bedroom condo in Boston can often secure a four-bedroom estate in Hingham or Milton.
Why the South Shore is the 2026 Tax Haven:
Millage Rate Stability: While Boston grapples with commercial real estate vacancies, South Shore towns like Norwell and Hingham have maintained a more predictable tax environment.
Equity Efficiency: Every dollar you pay in taxes in the suburbs buys you "tangible equity"—larger lots, private home offices, and top-tier school systems that you don’t have to pay for out-of-pocket.
The Luxury Swap: We are currently helping clients trade 1,200 sq. ft. of city space for 3,500 sq. ft. of suburban luxury, often with lower total monthly expenses.
The Bottom Line: If your tax bill is climbing while your square footage stays the same, you aren't just paying more—you’re losing leverage.