by Plalla Real Estate 
Property tax is a mandatory annual payment for all property owners in Mexico. This tax is fundamental to finance essential public services such as street maintenance, garbage collection, street lighting and security, contributing to the development and well-being of communities.
In 2025, several municipalities in Mexico are implementing discounts and special programs to incentivize early payment, benefiting responsible taxpayers and offering support to people in vulnerable situations.
In this article, we will explain in a clear and simple way how to calculate property tax in Mexico, what discounts you can take advantage of in different municipalities, and how to make your payment online quickly and securely. Comply with this tax obligation easily while taking advantage of the available benefits and contributing to the development of your community.
How to Calculate Property Tax in Mexico for 2025?
Paying property tax may seem complicated, but it is actually a simple process if you know the basic steps. In Mexico, the formula for calculating the property tax is fairly uniform and easy to understand, applying similar principles in most municipalities. Here we explain how to calculate it in a simple and practical way, no matter what state or city you are in.
Basic Formula Explained
The property tax calculation is done using this formula:
Cadastral Value × 0.0019 = Property Tax
- Cadastral Value: This is the value assigned to your property by the municipality, based on factors such as location, size, type of construction, and general characteristics. It is different from the commercial value and is usually lower.
- 0.0019: Property tax rate
This formula determines the amount you need to pay before applying discounts if you are paying in advance.
Detailed Practical Example
Imagine that the cadastral value of your property is $2,000,000 MXN. Using the formula, this is how your property tax is calculated:
1. Multiply the cadastral value by the tax rate:
2,000,000 × 0.0019 = 3,800 MXN
2. This would be the total amount of your property tax without applying discounts.
Now, if you decide to pay within the discounted dates available for example in Playa del Carmen, your amount would be reduced according to the discount percentage:
- 25% Discount (January 1-15):
3,800 MXN − (3,800 × 0.25) = 2,850 MXN
- 20% Discount (January 16-31):
3,800 MXN − (3,800 × 0.20) = 3,040 MXN
- 15% Discount (February 1-28):
3,800 MXN − (3,800 × 0.15) = 3,230 MXN
- 50% Discount (Vulnerable Groups):
3,800 MXN − (3,800 × 0.50) = 1,900 MXN
With these calculations, it’s easy to see how much you can save depending on when and how you make your payment.
The Importance of the Cadastral Value in the Calculation
Cadastral Value is a key factor because it serves as the basis for calculating your property tax. This value is not chosen randomly; it is determined by the municipality based on aspects such as:
- Location: Properties in central or commercial areas typically have a higher cadastral value.
- Land Characteristics: The size and features of the land directly influence the value.
- Construction: If the property has modern or large buildings, this increases its value.
It’s important to verify the cadastral value of your property with the municipality to ensure it is accurate and up-to-date. If you have any doubts, you can request this information directly from the municipal cadastral offices or check it on their online portals.
Property Tax Calculator
Paying your property tax doesn’t have to be complicated. With a basic calculation tool, you can easily determine how much you need to pay based on the cadastral value of your property and the available discounts. Below, we show you how to use this calculator and interpret the results.
Interactive Tool to Calculate Property Tax
Enter the cadastral value of your property to automatically calculate the amount of your property tax.
Mexico Property Tax Calculator
Instructions for Using the Calculator
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Obtain your cadastral value: You can find this information on your previous property tax receipt or directly at the municipal cadastral offices.
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Enter the cadastral value: Input the amount into the designated field.
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Select the applicable discount: Depending on the payment dates and your personal situation (if you belong to vulnerable groups, apply the 50% discount).
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Click “Calculate”: The results will automatically display, including the total amount to pay with and without the discount.
Advantages of Using the Calculator
- Accuracy: You’ll get an exact calculation of what you need to pay, without confusion.
- Time-saving: Avoid manual calculations and errors.
- Planning: Know the amount in advance and organize your finances to take advantage of the discounts.
With this interactive tool, paying your property tax will be easier than ever. Try the calculator and make the most of the available discounts!
Property Tax Payment Discounts in Playa del Carmen 2025
The municipality of Solidaridad (Playa del Carmen) offers attractive discounts for early payment of property tax in 2025, encouraging taxpayers to fulfill this fiscal obligation promptly. These discounts are an excellent opportunity to save money and contribute to the community’s development. Below are the details:
General Discounts
General discounts are available to all taxpayers who make their payment within the following dates:
25% discount:
- Available from January 1 to January 15, 2025.
- This is the highest general discount offered, ideal for those who want to maximize savings by paying early.
20% discount:
- Available from January 16 to January 31, 2025.
- An excellent option if you missed the first deadline.
15% discount:
- Available from February 1 to February 28, 2025.
- Though smaller, it’s still a good incentive for those needing more time to organize their finances.
Special 50% Discount for Vulnerable Groups
This discount is a social measure designed to benefit the most vulnerable sectors of the population, helping them meet their fiscal obligations without significantly impacting their finances.
Who is Eligible?
- Persons with disabilities.
- Retirees and pensioners.
- Seniors with a valid INAPAM (National Institute for Older Adults) or INE credential.
Requirements and Conditions:
Required Documentation:
- Present a valid INAPAM or INE credential or proof of retirement/pension.
- Document proving ownership of the property.
Benefit Limitations:
- This discount applies to only one property per taxpayer.
- The property must be a residential home and registered as a physical structure, not an undeveloped lot.
Application Period:
- Available from January 1 to June 31, 2025.
Comparison of Property Taxes Between Mexico, the United States, and Canada
Property tax is a fiscal obligation that varies significantly in structure and costs between countries. Mexico, the United States, and Canada have different approaches, reflecting the fiscal and social priorities of each. Below, we explore differences in rates, practical examples, and the competitive benefits Mexico offers.
Differences in Rates and Average Costs
Mexico:
- The average property tax rate in Mexico ranges between 0.4% and 0.9% of the cadastral value of the property.
- Example in Playa del Carmen: 0.19% of the cadastral value, one of the lowest rates globally.
United States:
- The national average property tax rate is 0.83%, with significant differences between states:
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- Low rates: Hawaii (0.30%), Alabama (0.37%), Colorado (0.40%).
- High rates: Illinois (1.78%), Connecticut (1.57%), New Jersey (1.53%).
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Canada:
- Rates in Canada range from 0.5% to 2.5% of the appraised property value, depending on the province or city.
- Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to have higher rates, while less urbanized regions have rates closer to 0.5%.
Practical Examples Comparing Similar Properties
Let’s consider a property valued at $2,000,000 MXN (approximately $100,000 USD or CAD). Annual costs would be as follows:
| Country | Average Rate | Approximate Annual Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | 0.19% | $3,800 MXN ($200 USD) |
| United States | 0.83% | $830 USD |
| Canada | 0.50% | $500 CAD |
Observations:
- In Mexico, property tax costs are significantly lower due to reduced rates and a cadastral base (which is often lower than market value).
- In the United States, costs vary widely by state but are generally higher.
- In Canada, rates start at 0.5%, with an upward trend in larger cities and high-value properties.
Competitive Advantages of Mexico
- Lower property tax rates: Mexico stands out as one of the countries with the most accessible property tax rates, especially compared to its northern neighbors.
- Early payment discounts: Municipal programs, like those in Solidaridad, offer tiered discounts of up to 50%, a benefit unavailable in the United States or Canada.
- System based on cadastral value: Property tax in Mexico is calculated based on cadastral value (frequently lower than market value), reducing the economic burden of the tax.
- Social focus: Special discount programs for seniors, retirees, and other vulnerable groups reflect the social commitment of Mexico’s fiscal system.
- Economic accessibility: Property tax in Mexico represents a much smaller fraction of income compared to the United States or Canada, allowing property owners to allocate more resources to other expenses.
Options for Paying Property Tax Online
Property tax payments have been modernized in many municipalities across Mexico, allowing quick and secure payments from the comfort of your home. Below, we explain how to access online payment options, official municipal portals, and the steps needed to register and complete your payment.
Interactive Property Tax Calculator
Before making your payment, we recommend using our interactive calculator to determine the exact amount you need to pay based on your property’s cadastral value and available discounts. Go to the calculator
Official Online Payment Portals
The main municipalities in Quintana Roo and Yucatán offer digital platforms for property tax payments. Here are the direct links to each portal:
- Playa del Carmen (Solidaridad): Online property tax payment
- Tulum: Property tax payment portal
- Cancún (Benito Juárez): Online payment platform
- Mérida: Property tax payment system
Steps to Register and Make a Payment
In some cases, creating an account on the municipality’s portal is necessary to complete online payments. Here’s how to do it:
1. Access the official portal:
Click on the link for your municipality’s portal (above).
2. Create an account (if necessary):
- Look for the “Register” or “Create Account” option.
- Enter the requested information, which generally includes:
- Full name.
- Email address.
- Password.
- Cadastral account number (found on previous property tax receipts).
3. Confirm your account:
You’ll receive a verification email. Follow the instructions to activate your account.
4. Log in:
- Enter your email and password.
- Navigate to the “Property Tax” or “Online Payments” section.
5. Make the payment:
- Enter the cadastral account number or select the property you wish to pay for.
- Verify the calculated amount (ensure applicable discounts are included).
- Select a payment method: debit/credit card, transfer, or deposit.
6. Save your receipt:
Once the payment is made, save the digital receipt as proof.
Advantages of Online Payment
- Convenience: Complete the process without lines or waiting times.
- Security: Platforms are designed to protect your personal and banking data.
- Immediate access: Download your receipt instantly.
- Automatically applied discounts: If you pay within the discount period, the system calculates them automatically.
Conclusion
Property tax is more than a fiscal obligation: it’s an opportunity to contribute to public services while saving through early payment discounts. Calculating and paying your property tax on time not only helps organize your finances but also allows you to take advantage of municipal incentives, such as tiered discounts of up to 50% in some cases.
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