50-State Property Tax Comparison Study

Property taxes are the largest revenue source for local governments and play a vital role in municipal fiscal health. The Lincoln Institute’s 50-State Property Tax Comparison Study for Taxes Paid in 2024 explores why property tax rates vary so dramatically across more than 100 US cities. By calculating effective tax rates, or tax bills as a percentage of market value, this annual study offers insight into the structural and policy differences that shape local tax burdens.

Designed for policymakers, analysts, journalists, and researchers, the report includes data for 75 large cities and a rural municipality in each state. It covers four property types (homestead, commercial, industrial, and apartment) and presents net tax bills and effective tax rate comparisons.