Durham Regional Council has set a 3.5 per cent cap on property tax hike for 2026, the region has announced.
The council had approved an overall property tax cap of 4.9 per cent for 2025. However, in actuality, the 2025 tax hike was 7.4 per cent (see below). The 2025 water supply and sanitary sewer user rates were increased by 5 per cent.
The council has approved the 2026 Property Tax Supported Business Plans and Budget Guideline, said a region statement.
“For the average homeowner, regional property taxes will be capped at an increase of about $19 per month or an increase of 3.5 per cent on the overall property tax bill,” it said.
Of this increase approximately $9 is for police services and $10 will fund other essential services across the region, including transit, housing, paramedic services and regional roads and bridges, it said.
Increased Costs
“Similar to other municipalities, we are facing increased costs to deliver existing services as well as demand for increasing critical front line services and infrastructure to support our growing community while facing uncertainty due to the current economic environment (i.e. inflation and tariffs) and a growing need for provincial and federal funding.
“Setting the budget guideline is an important first step in the annual budget process. In developing the 2026 budget all opportunities for cost savings, efficiencies and non-property tax revenue sources are being explored with the final budget coming forward for Regional Council’s consideration in December,” said the statement.
The next critical part of the 2026 budget process is to invite residents to help shape the 2026 Budget. A Budget Town Hall is scheduled for this fall.
“The region is committed to deliver and maintain safe, reliable and financially sustainable services for our residents. We are proud to continue to invest in the regional services that drive our community, and we will continue to work to ensure that Durham Region remains the best place to call home,” Nancy Taylor, Durham Commissioner of Finance.
Learn more at yourvoice.durham.ca/budget.