How property taxes work
Property tax is charged by local governments such as counties, cities and school districts, and is based on the assessed value of your home. The effective rate shown here is the average tax paid as a share of home value across each state, which makes states easy to compare.
- Rates inside one state can differ widely from county to county.
- Many states offer a homestead exemption or credits for seniors, veterans or people with disabilities that lower the bill on a primary home.
- Your lender usually collects property tax monthly through an escrow account, so it is part of your mortgage payment.
To see how property tax changes your monthly payment, enter the rate in the mortgage calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Which states have the highest property taxes?
In the table above, New Jersey, Illinois and Connecticut have some of the highest average effective rates, while Hawaii has one of the lowest.
How can I find my exact property tax?
Check your county assessor or tax collector's website. Most let you search by address to see the assessed value, exemptions and the current bill.
Can I appeal my property tax assessment?
Yes. Most counties allow an appeal if you believe your home's assessed value is too high. Deadlines are usually short, so check your assessment notice.