South Carolina boat owners demand tax fairness amid highest property taxes nationwide

South Carolina boat owners are facing a significant financial burden as they contend with the highest property taxes on personal watercraft in the nation, according to discussions from the Senate Finance Committee's Property Tax Subcommittee meeting on April 15, 2025. With over 300,000 boat owners in the state, many are paying property taxes that are three to seven times higher than those in neighboring states.

The committee heard compelling testimony highlighting the disparity in boat taxes between South Carolina and its border states. For instance, a $50,000 boat incurs a tax of approximately $2,392 in Anderson County, South Carolina, while the same boat would only cost $422 in Hart County, Georgia. This trend continues across various counties, with South Carolina's tax rates consistently outpacing those of neighboring regions.

Advocates for tax reform emphasized that this issue affects everyday families, not just wealthy boat owners. Many residents have reported selling their boats or opting for older models due to the high tax rates. The testimony underscored that the current tax system is a barrier to access for recreational boating, impacting community engagement with South Carolina's renowned waterways.

The committee's discussions reflect a growing concern among constituents about the fairness of the state's tax policies. As the meeting concluded, there was a clear call for legislative action to address these inequities and provide relief to South Carolina's boat owners. The implications of these discussions could lead to significant changes in property tax legislation, aiming to create a more equitable tax environment for all residents.