Washington taxes capital gains at 7%. Combined with federal taxes, your effective rate on a home sale could reach 25.8%.
WA State Rate
7%
7% on gains > $250K (since 2022)
Federal Rate
15%
Most common long-term bracket
Combined Effective
25.8%
On $150K taxable gain (example)
After the $250K/$500K exclusion, here's what a typical seller might owe.
If Washington is where your primary residence is located and you've lived there at least 2 of the last 5 years, you can exclude up to $250K (single) or $500K (married filing jointly) of your capital gain from both federal and state taxes.
Investment and rental properties in Washington don't qualify for the exclusion. You'll owe 7% state tax plus federal tax on the full gain, plus 25% depreciation recapture on any depreciation claimed.
In Washington, homes sold in May sell for 16% more than those sold in December (-20%). Timing your sale right can offset a significant portion of your tax bill.