Did you know we have NO STATE INCOME TAX? If you come from California, Oregon, NY, Massachutes, you can just look at your taxes to see how much this will save you!
Our property taxes are some of the lowest in Washington, and a fraction of what you would pay in Oregon or California or NY or NJ. On a $400,000 single family home we pay about $100 per month, $1,200 per year.
How can we afford to do that and offer any services on Orcas Island? We have a rich resource in our retirees who volunteer their time generously and their money as well. We have fund raisers and benefits, library fairs, auctions, dinners, dances, concerts. People give of their time and energy and the whole community benefits.
Yes, we do have sales tax of 7%. This is not nearly as expensive as high property taxes or state income tax, and you get to choose what you spend each year. No tax on groceries or medical needs.