Taxes in Ellicott City
Ellicott City's tax picture combines Howard County's above-average property-tax rate with the state-maximum local piggyback income tax.
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 moreHoward County's above-average property tax rate
Ellicott City's own ZIP codes run effective property tax rates of 1.34% (21043) to 1.51% (21042), above Howard County's 1.17% countywide figure and Maryland's ~0.95% statewide average.
Howard County's maximum local income tax rate
Howard County levies the 2026 maximum local piggyback income tax rate (3.2%), on top of Maryland's 10-bracket state income tax (2%-6.5%).
Maryland's flat statewide sales tax
Maryland's flat 6% statewide sales tax (no local add-on) applies in Ellicott City as elsewhere in the state -- a real, simple contrast to the county-varying income and property tax layers.
Key takeaways
- Ellicott City's ZIP-level property tax rates (1.34%-1.51%) run above the Maryland statewide average.
- Howard County levies the 2026 maximum local piggyback income tax rate (3.2%).
- Maryland's flat 6% statewide sales tax carries no local add-on, unlike the income and property tax layers.
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 Ellicott City 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