Rhode Island transfer tax
Rhode Island charges a real estate conveyance tax of $3.75 per $500 (0.75%) since October 1, 2025, paid by the seller. Residential sales also owe a second tier of $3.75 per $500 on the part of the price above $824,000 (2026 threshold), so 1.5% applies to that portion.
Most towns add nothing. New Shoreham (Block Island) charges a 3% Land Trust fee, typically paid by the buyer, above an exemption amount.
Rhode Island state transfer tax calculator
- State
| Tax | Rate | Who pays | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island real estate conveyance tax (Tier 1)State | $3.75 per $500 | Seller | $3,000.00 |
| Rhode Island conveyance tax (Tier 2, residential over threshold)State | 0.75% above a threshold | Seller | $0.00 |
| Total transfer tax (0.75% of the price) | $3,000.00 | ||
"Who pays" is the customary or legal default; your purchase contract can move it. State taxes only — pick your place above to add local taxes.
Transfer tax in Rhode Island by home price
| Sale price | Total tax | Effective rate | Seller | Buyer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $250,000 | $1,875 | 0.75% | $1,875 | $0 |
| $400,000 | $3,000 | 0.75% | $3,000 | $0 |
| $600,000 | $4,500 | 0.75% | $4,500 | $0 |
| $800,000 | $6,000 | 0.75% | $6,000 | $0 |
| $1,000,000 | $8,820 | 0.882% | $8,820 | $0 |
| $1,500,000 | $16,320 | 1.088% | $16,320 | $0 |
| $2,500,000 | $31,320 | 1.253% | $31,320 | $0 |
| $5,000,000 | $68,820 | 1.376% | $68,820 | $0 |
Negotiable amounts are shown half to each side.
Selling in Rhode Island?
Transfer tax is usually the second-biggest closing cost after the agent's commission. Comparing agents' fees often saves more than any exemption.
Common exemptions
- Consideration of $100 or less
- Deeds securing a debt and releases
- Transfers between spouses or by divorce decree
- Transfers to or from the U.S., the State or its political subdivisions
- Deeds for no consideration (gifts) and correction deeds
- Transfers into a revocable trust
Questions
Who pays conveyance tax in Rhode Island?
The seller, unless the parties agree otherwise.
How much is the tax on a $1,000,000 home in 2026?
About $7,500 Tier 1 (0.75%) plus $1,320 Tier 2 on the $176,000 above $824,000, about $8,820 in total.
Did the rate change recently?
Yes. It rose from $2.30 to $3.75 per $500 on October 1, 2025, and the Tier 2 threshold is now adjusted for inflation each year.
How much is transfer tax on a $500,000 house in Rhode Island?
The state part is $3,750; local taxes can add more — pick your city or county above.
Sources
- RI Division of Taxation – Real Estate Conveyance Tax
- RI Division of Taxation Advisory ADV 2026-01 – Conveyance Tax Tier 2 threshold adjustment ($824,000)
- RI Division of Taxation Advisory ADV 2025-13 – Conveyance tax increase
- New Shoreham – Block Island Land Trust
Last checked October 13, 2026. Rates in effect for residential sales; commercial, leasehold and entity transfers can differ. Always confirm with your title company or closing attorney before closing.