What Is FLOST in Athens-Clarke County? What Homeowners Need to Know

Athens-Clarke County voters approved FLOST (Floating Local Option Sales Tax) on November 3, 2026. The new 1% sales tax will take effect January 1, 2027, with the revenue dedicated exclusively to reducing local property taxes.

But what does that actually mean for Athens homeowners, prospective buyers, and sellers? Here’s what you need to know about the new tax, when property tax savings begin, and how it could affect the cost of owning a home in Athens.

What Is FLOST in Athens-Clarke County?

FLOST stands for Floating Local Option Sales Tax. It’s a 1% sales tax that will be collected on taxable purchases made in Athens-Clarke County by residents and visitors alike.

Unlike SPLOST, which funds specific capital projects, FLOST revenue must be used exclusively to reduce property taxes.

In practical terms, it shifts a portion of the local tax burden from property owners to people who shop, dine, and spend money in Athens.

Here’s what changes:

• Current local sales tax: 8%
• New local sales tax: 9%
• Effective date: January 1, 2027
• How the revenue is used: Reducing local property taxes

The additional tax applies to taxable purchases made in Athens-Clarke County, including qualifying online purchases delivered to local addresses.

For more information, visit the official Athens-Clarke County FLOST information page.

How Much Could Athens Homeowners Save on Property Taxes?

According to Athens-Clarke County projections, FLOST could provide meaningful property tax relief. The actual savings will depend on sales tax collections and applicable property tax exemptions.

The county’s example uses a $250,000 home:

• 2027: Estimated savings of $160–$220. The first year reflects only six months of sales tax collections.
• 2028–2031: Estimated annual savings of $320–$440, based on a full year of collections.

The county estimates that FLOST revenue could reduce the ACCGov millage rate by approximately 35%, from 12.25 mills to 7.83 mills.

It’s important to understand that this reduction applies to the county government’s portion of the property tax rate. It does not mean your entire property tax bill will automatically decrease by 35%.

Your total property tax bill may also include school taxes and other applicable taxes.

Who Benefits From FLOST?

FLOST property tax reductions apply to all taxable properties within the participating tax district, not just owner-occupied homes.

That includes:

• Primary residences
• Rental and investment properties
• Commercial properties
• Industrial properties

Property tax relief also extends to properties in Winterville and the portion of Bogart located within Athens-Clarke County. This means the impact reaches beyond individual homeowners and could affect a broad range of local property owners.

What Does FLOST Mean for Athens Home Buyers and Sellers?

Property taxes are an important part of the overall cost of homeownership. Here’s how FLOST could factor into real estate decisions.

For home buyers

Property taxes are typically included in monthly mortgage payments through an escrow account. A reduction in the county’s property tax portion could help lower the ongoing cost of homeownership.

However, buyers should always use current property tax information when estimating monthly housing expenses. Actual bills will depend on the property’s assessed value, applicable exemptions, and adopted tax rates.

For home sellers

Understanding local property tax changes is another piece of the financial picture when preparing to sell.

If you’re considering selling your home, it’s helpful to understand how changes in property taxes could factor into conversations with prospective buyers.

And if you’re planning a move to Athens, understanding the local tax structure is part of understanding the true cost of living here.

Will My Property Taxes Automatically Go Down?

Not necessarily by a guaranteed amount.

FLOST is designed to provide property tax relief based on the actual sales tax revenue collected. That means the amount of relief can change from year to year.

Your individual savings will depend on several factors:

• Actual FLOST revenue collected
• The millage rate adopted by the local government
• Your property’s assessed value
• Homestead and other applicable exemptions

The first property tax reductions are expected to appear on 2027 tax bills.

FLOST is currently scheduled to run through December 31, 2031, unless renewed through another voter referendum.

For questions about your individual property tax bill, visit the Athens-Clarke County Tax Commissioner’s website or consult a qualified tax professional.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About FLOST in Athens, GA

When does the FLOST sales tax begin in Athens-Clarke County?

The new 1% FLOST sales tax begins January 1, 2027. Athens-Clarke County’s local sales tax rate will increase from 8% to 9%.

How much will FLOST reduce property taxes?

Based on county projections, the owner of a $250,000 home could save approximately $160–$220 in 2027 and $320–$440 annually from 2028 through 2031. Actual savings will depend on tax collections, property assessments, and applicable exemptions.

Does FLOST apply to rental properties?

Yes. FLOST property tax reductions apply to all taxable properties within the participating tax district, including rental homes, commercial properties, and industrial properties.

Will Athens property taxes go down in 2027?

FLOST is expected to provide the first property tax reductions on 2027 tax bills. The amount will depend on sales tax revenue collected during the first six months of 2027 and the resulting millage rate adjustment.

How long will the FLOST tax last?

The current FLOST period is scheduled to end December 31, 2031. Voters would need to approve an extension through another referendum for the tax to continue.

Have Questions About the Athens Real Estate Market?

Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, selling a longtime family home, or simply trying to understand what’s happening in the Athens real estate market, I’m happy to help you sort through the details.

Real estate decisions involve more than just a purchase price. Understanding your local market, property taxes, and the community you’re investing in matters, too.

Let’s connect.

Jacki Macker, REALTOR® | Corcoran Classic Living

Moving is hard. Buying or selling a home shouldn’t be.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Property tax savings are estimates based on Athens-Clarke County projections. Actual savings will depend on sales tax collections, adopted millage rates, property assessments, and applicable exemptions. Tax rates and market information may change. Please confirm details with Athens-Clarke County or a qualified tax professional before making financial decisions.