Florida voters approve Amendment 3: what it means for homeowners, renters and Airbnb hosts

The measure increases the homestead exemption, limits assessment growth for non-homestead property and may change how local governments fund services

FLORIDA — Florida voters approved Constitutional Amendment 3. The measure received 4,917,715 yes votes, or 61.98%, and 3,016,136 no votes, or 38.02%. Florida amendments require at least 60% approval.

AMENDMENT 3 — FLORIDAStatewide voteYes4,917,715 — 61.98%No3,016,136 — 38.02%Total: 7,933,851 votes

Comparison based on Florida Election Watch results.

What changes for homeowners

For a primary residence, the homestead exemption for taxes other than school-district taxes rises to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, with inflation adjustments afterward. This does not eliminate every property-tax bill. School taxes are not covered, and actual savings depend on assessed value, local rates and other charges.

THE 60% THRESHOLDFlorida constitutional amendments need at least 60%60%61.98% — APPROVED

Renters do not receive the exemption directly

Renters do not qualify for homestead because they do not own the primary residence. They will not receive an automatic reduction in monthly rent. If local governments change rates or fees, or if taxes on rental property rise, owners may try to pass part of the cost to tenants. That is possible, not automatic.

What about Airbnb and vacation rentals?

Airbnb, Vrbo and vacation homes generally are not the owner's homestead. They do not receive the larger primary-residence exemption. The annual assessment-growth cap for non-homestead property falls from 10% to 5%. That may slow assessed-value growth, but it does not freeze the tax bill. Owners may adjust nightly rates, fees, maintenance or the property's use.

What changes across Florida

Property taxes help fund police, fire, emergency services, roads, drainage, parks, libraries, infrastructure and local administration. The amendment directs property-tax revenue toward public safety, education and schools, infrastructure, natural resources, debt service, retirement benefits and operations and administration. It does not automatically order cuts or tax increases. Each county, city and special district will adjust its budget as the new rules take effect.

When it begins

The amendment takes effect January 1, 2027. For homeowners, the direct benefit is a larger exemption. For renters, the effect is indirect. For Airbnb and other non-homestead owners, the key change is the lower assessment-growth cap.

PASCO COUNTYAvailable county reportYes124,454 — 66.22%No63,484 — 33.78%Subject to final certification

Pasco County figures reflect the available report and may change before final certification.

Sources:

  • Florida Department of State, Division of Elections
  • Florida Election Watch
  • Pasco County Election Night Reporting
  • Florida TaxWatch
  • Florida Housing Coalition
  • Florida Apartment Association