Abbotsford residents facing a possible 4.94 per cent tax increase

ABBOTSFORD — Abbotsford residents are likely facing a 4.94 per cent increase in taxes in 2026. City Council confirmed the tax hike earlier this week when it endorsed its 2026-2030 Financial Plan.

The tax increase comes in the form of a 4.44 per cent increase in property taxes and a 0.5 per cent infrastructure levy. According to the civic officials, the increase will allow the City to meet rising cost pressures that are being felt across the region. That includes labour market conditions, contractual obligations, capital projects and inflation.

City Council says the decisions behind the budget were motivated by the community’s desire to invest in public safety, transportation and utilities, parks and community amenities.

A statement released by the Council defends the increase, saying, “By keeping taxes reasonable and predictable, not only does it ensure that we can maintain service levels, but it also helps us as we plan for the future.”

The 4.44 per cent property tax increase is the lowest annual increase since the 2.99 per cent increase in 2022, the last year Abbotsford municipal voters went to the polls.

Residential property owners will see their taxes rise approximately $2.70 for every $100,000 value of their home. An average-priced home of $1,153,000 will see an increase of approximately $31.15.

Businesses will see an increase of approximately $6.16 for every $100,000 in value of their property.

Public input on the increase will still be accepted online on the City of Abbotsford website until February 20.

Council still can make adjustments to the tax rate until May when it is scheduled to formally adopt the tax rate bylaw.