Buying a home isn’t just about the purchase price; you’ll also need to budget for ongoing costs like property taxes. These taxes can vary widely depending on where you live. Homebuyers in Boston will pay more than those buying homes in Los Angeles, even if the houses have the same value. So read on as we break down property taxes by state so you’ll know what states charge the highest rates and where you might be able to save some cash.
What are property taxes, and what do they do?
Property taxes are charged to homeowners based on the assessed value of your property. They help local governments pay for things like schools, public transportation, fire departments, and other necessary public services and government expenses.
Your local tax assessor calculates your property tax based on methods defined by state and local laws. If you itemize deductions, property taxes may be deductible on your federal tax return.
Property taxes by state
Keep in mind that property tax rates can vary significantly within the same state. What you ultimately pay depends on your county or city’s specific rate and your home’s assessed value. The figures below show statewide averages based on the most recent data available; your actual tax bill may differ. Effective property tax rates are from 2023, while median sale prices reflect July 2025 Redfin data.
State |
Effective Property Tax Rate (2023, %) |
Median Sale Price (July 2025) |
Estimated Annual Property Tax |
| Alabama | 0.36 | $300,100 | $1,080 |
| Alaska | 0.91 | $422,900 | $3,848 |
| Arizona | 0.44 | $439,000 | $3,995 |
| Arkansas | 0.53 | $273,100 | $1,447 |
| California | 0.70 | $830,400 | $5,812 |
| Colorado | 0.50 | $598,400 | $2,992 |
| Connecticut | 1.48 | $491,700 | $7,277 |
| Delaware | 0.50 | $385,000 | $1,925 |
| District of Columbia | 0.61 | $675,000 | $4,118 |
| Florida | 0.74 | $404,100 | $2,990 |
| Georgia | 0.77 | $382,000 | $2,941 |
| Hawaii | 0.32 | $733,800 | $2,348 |
| Idaho | 0.48 | $491,200 | $2,358 |
| Illinois | 1.83 | $320,800 | $5,871 |
| Indiana | 0.77 | $281,400 | $2,167 |
| Iowa | 1.23 | $252,200 |