Real Estate Transfer Tax Calculator
Real estate transfer taxes are levied by state, county, and sometimes city governments when ownership of property is transferred. Rates range from a fraction of 1% in low-tax states to over 2% in high-tax cities (New York City imposes up to 2.625% for sales over $3 million). The tax is calculated on the sale price. Enter the sale price and the combined transfer tax rate (state plus county plus local, if applicable) to see the total transfer tax owed at closing.
Transfer tax formula
Transfer Tax = Sale Price x (Rate / 100)
Net Proceeds = Sale Price - Transfer Tax
The transfer tax is a percentage of the sale price. Combine all applicable rates (state, county, city) before entering. Net proceeds assumes the seller pays the full transfer tax; adjust if the buyer pays part or all of the tax per your contract.
Sample transfer tax rates by state
Pennsylvania: 2% (split between buyer and seller). New York State: 0.4% plus NYC 1%-2.625%. California: $1.10 per $1,000 (0.11%) plus county. Washington State: graduated 1.1% to 3.0%. Illinois: $0.50 per $500 (0.10%) plus local. Always verify the current rate with your county recorder or closing attorney before relying on any table.
Real estate transfer tax FAQ
What is a real estate transfer tax?
A real estate transfer tax (also called a deed tax, conveyance tax, or excise tax on deed) is levied by state or local governments on the transfer of real property. It is typically based on the sale price and is due at closing. Rates vary widely by state and county.
Who pays real estate transfer tax, the buyer or seller?
By default, the seller pays the transfer tax in most states, but the parties can negotiate who pays. In some states such as Pennsylvania, the transfer tax is split equally between buyer and seller. Always review your purchase contract to see how it is allocated.
Which states do not have a real estate transfer tax?
As of 2024, several states including Alaska, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming have no statewide real estate transfer tax, though some local jurisdictions in those states may impose their own transfer taxes.
How is the transfer tax rate expressed?
Transfer tax rates are typically expressed as a percentage of the sale price (such as 0.5% or 1%) or as a dollar amount per $500 or $1,000 of consideration. This calculator uses a percentage rate, so convert your state's per-$500 or per-$1,000 rate to a percentage before entering.
Are any real estate transfers exempt from transfer tax?
Common exemptions include transfers between spouses, transfers to trusts for no consideration, gifts, and certain government transfers. Some states exempt first-time homebuyers up to a price threshold. Check your state's statute or contact your county recorder for the full exemption list.
Official sources
- Tax Foundation: Real Estate Transfer Taxes by State.
- Your state's Department of Revenue (search "[state] real estate transfer tax").
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 15 June 2026. See our methodology.