Property taxes are a sore spot for my homeowners. On the other hand, for the local government, these taxes are an essential way to fund schools, police departments, and public infrastructure. In some cities across the United States, property taxes have been quietly but steadily climbing. Here are 14 cities where property taxes are steadily on the rise.
1. Detroit, Michigan
Many people think of Detroit and think of the rise of automobiles. They may also remember the slew of economic challenges that have plagued this area. Because of these hardships, Detroit has witnessed a notable increase in property taxes. This increase is part of an effort to boost city revenue and fund improvements. Residents in this area feel the financial strain as the city focuses on its recovery.
2. Omaha, Nebraska
In Omaha, property taxes have been increasing at a pace that outstrips many other midwestern cities. The growth in property taxes is partially due to expanded city services and infrastructure projects. Omaha is on the fast track for significant economic growth, which is beneficial in the long run. However, it does affect homeowners in this area.
3. Nashville, Tennessee
Thousands of people love to visit Nashville for its thriving music scene and delicious restaurants. This influx in tourism has caused an increase in property taxes for people living in the area. The leap forward is helping cover the costs of a rapidly expanding urban infrastructure and public services system. The increases are a double-edged sword since they’re funding the city’s growth but making homeownership even more difficult.
4. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is known for having some of the highest property tax rates in the nation. The Windy City’s taxes have continued to climb as it attempts to cover mounting pension liabilities and other fiscal deficits. For homeowners, these hikes mean a significant rise in the cost of living. Employers even have to increase their base pay just to make it possible to live in Chicago.
5. Austin, Texas
As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., Austin has experienced rising property taxes to cover the boom. The city’s need for expanded services and infrastructure has shown the trend of sneakily climbing tax rates. Couple that with skyrocketing real estate values; Austin is quickly becoming an expensive place to live. This trend has been pushing some residents out to other neighboring areas.
6. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee’s property taxes have climbed in recent years. The city is on the hunt for additional funds to cover everything from education costs to pension funds. These elevated taxes are particularly challenging for residents in the city. Unfortunately, the average income in the area hasn’t quite risen enough to cover the high cost of living.
7. Portland, Oregon
Homelessness is a growing problem in Portland, Oregon. To address this issue, the local government has slowly been raising property taxes to cover affordable housing and other programs. While these initiatives are widely supported, the resulting tax hikes have added to the cost pressures faced by homeowners. It can be hard to own a home in an overly competitive market.
8. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is another city that is seeing increased tax hikes. These funds are being used to cover increased spending on public schools and city services. The city is also seeing more gentrified neighborhoods than ever before. As property values rise, people in this area are considering housing in the suburbs, which means longer commutes for anyone working downtown.
9. San Francisco, California
Known for its exorbitant cost of living, it’s no surprise that San Francisco made this list of property tax offenders. The taxes have escalated as real estate values have soared. A portion of this money is going toward public initiatives that make the city a more thriving, exciting place to live. Of course, this comes at additional financial burdens for its residents.
10. Minneapolis, Minnesota
In Minneapolis, property taxes have been on an upward trajectory. This is driven by the city’s efforts to improve public services and infrastructure. These enhancements serve the community and make Minneapolis a more fulfilling place to live. However, it comes at a cost that ultimately affects the homeowner’s wallet.
11. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s property taxes have increased significantly in recent years. Much of this is due to levies as well as measures aimed at improving public transit, parks, and schools. As home values continue to rise, so does the tax burden on residents. This complicates affordability in an already expensive housing market.
12. Columbus, Ohio
The capital of Ohio, Columbus, has seen its property taxes grow by 23% since 2019. This hike in prices is part of an effort to bolster city services and educational resources. Residents in the area are torn over the costs. On one hand, it’s nice to fund these valuable public services, on the other hand, it comes at a significant financial burden to homeowners.
13. Denver, Colorado
Denver’s property tax increases have been linked to the city’s rapid population growth. With more people living in the city, there’s a corresponding need for expanded services. These taxes are contributing to the overall rising cost of living in Denver. Long-term residents and newcomers are affected by the rising costs.
14. Atlanta, Georgia
In Atlanta, property taxes have risen as the city invests in major public projects and community improvements. Many people in the area are excited about these initiatives. Whether it’s the goal of designing new public transit or transforming underused streets, these projects are undoubtedly enhancing the city. Unfortunately, it comes at the expense of the homeowner.
Face the Tax Hikes
Across the United States, many cities are facing the challenging balance of funding necessary services while managing the affordability of living for their residents. The cities listed here have seen significant increases as a result of various local needs and pressures. Homeowners in these cities must navigate the reality of rising costs. Make informed decisions about your living situations and advocate for sustainable fiscal policies from your local governments.
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.