Taxes in Sarasota
Beyond property tax, Sarasota residents benefit from Florida's lack of a state income tax, but pay a standard state-plus-local sales tax and, for anyone renting property short-term, a meaningful local tourist tax. There's no state estate or inheritance tax to plan around either.
Exploring the idea of moving?
We can connect you with a local real estate professional who knows the area -- no pressure, just a starting point.
Learn moreNo state income tax
Florida is one of a small number of states with no personal income tax, a fact enshrined in the state constitution. This is often the single largest tax-line difference for retirees and remote workers relocating from a state with an income tax, and it applies statewide, not just in Sarasota -- but it's worth factoring into any side-by-side relocation comparison alongside Sarasota's higher property and insurance costs.
Sales tax
The combined sales tax rate in Sarasota County is 7% for 2026 -- Florida’s 6% state rate plus a 1% Sarasota County discretionary surtax, per Avalara’s 2026 rate tables. This applies to most retail purchases; groceries and prescription drugs carry Florida’s standard exemptions.
Tourist development tax on short-term rentals
Anyone renting property in Sarasota County for six months or less -- including owners running a seasonal or vacation rental -- owes a 6% Tourist Development Tax on top of the 7% sales tax, per the Sarasota County Tax Collector. That tax applies to rent and most related fees (cleaning fees, pet fees, damage-waiver charges). Owners considering seasonal rental income as part of their purchase decision should budget both taxes into their rental math, not just the sales tax.
No state estate or inheritance tax
Florida imposes no state estate tax and no state inheritance tax, which can matter for retirees doing estate planning as part of a relocation decision -- though federal estate tax rules still apply regardless of state of residence.
Key takeaways
- No Florida state personal income tax -- a meaningful offset to Sarasota’s higher housing and insurance costs.
- Combined sales tax is 7% (6% state + 1% Sarasota County surtax) for 2026.
- Short-term (six months or less) rentals owe an additional 6% Tourist Development Tax on top of sales tax.
- No state estate or inheritance tax, though federal estate tax rules still apply.
Want to know what your budget actually buys here?
Tell us a bit about what you're looking for and we'll connect you with someone local who can walk you through real numbers.
Get local guidanceRead the full Sarasota overview for the complete picture -- housing, taxes, climate, and who this place genuinely fits.
Planning a move?
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll connect you with a local expert who can help you make it happen.
Talk to a local expert