Have you been thinking about buying a house? Property taxes are a major factor to consider, and some counties in the U.S. are notorious for causing residents to flee to greener pastures (with lower tax bills). Here are 18 counties with sky-high property taxes. So, if you’re looking to save a buck or two, you might want to consider moving elsewhere.
Bergen County, New Jersey
Consistently topping the charts with effective rates exceeding 3.0%, Bergen County boasts excellent schools and diverse communities. It’s a haven for families, but a 2023 study by Rutgers University found a net outmigration trend, with residents citing high taxes as a major factor in their decision to leave.
Essex County, New Jersey
Essex County is home to Newark and historic towns and offers a vibrant mix of urban and suburban life. However, effective tax rates well over 3.0% are causing some residents to explore more affordable options. Census data shows a population decline in Essex County between 2020 and 2022, suggesting an outflow of residents.
Union County, New Jersey
Diverse and conveniently located, Union County offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. However, with effective tax rates surpassing 3.0%, it’s not surprising that a 2022 report by NJ.com highlighted the county’s struggle with retaining young families due to the high cost of living, including property taxes.
Nassau County, New York (Long Island)
Long Island living boasts beautiful beaches and affluent communities, but it doesn’t come cheap. Effective rates hovering around 3.0% have led to a decrease in property value growth in recent years, according to a 2023 report by The Real Deal. This, coupled with high taxes, might explain why some residents are seeking more affordable locations.
New York County, New York (Manhattan)
The allure of Manhattan – the iconic skyline, world-class attractions, and vibrant energy – comes at a premium. Effective rates exceeding 3.0% contribute to a high cost of living, and while Manhattan’s population remains dense, a 2022 report by CNBC noted a slowdown in population growth, possibly due to residents seeking more affordable alternatives.
Rockland County, New York
Scenic beauty, strong schools, and close proximity to NYC make Rockland County a dream for many. However, the dream comes with an effective tax rate exceeding 3.0%. A 2021 report by The Journal News found that young families, especially millennials, are leaving Rockland County at a higher rate than previous generations, citing high taxes as a major reason.
Westchester County, New York
Affluent communities, historical sites, and a mix of landscapes define Westchester County. But, tax rates exceeding 3.0% are causing some residents to reconsider the high cost of living. A 2023 report by Westchester Magazine highlighted a trend of residents downsizing their homes within the county to cope with rising property taxes.
Falls Church City, Virginia
This independent city near Washington, D.C., offers historic charm, excellent schools, and a convenient location. And yet rates exceeding 3.0% are causing some residents to explore areas with a lower tax burden. A 2022 report by Virginia Public Radio found that Falls Church City is experiencing an influx of retirees while younger families are opting for more affordable suburbs.
Hunterdon County, New Jersey
Hunterdon County offers a slower pace of life with rolling hills, farms, and charming towns. However, effective rates near 2.5% mean property taxes are still a consideration. While exact data on migration patterns is limited, a 2022 article in The New York Times exploring the “donut effect” around NYC suggests that younger residents priced out of the city might bypass Hunterdon County for even more affordable rural areas.
Morris County, New Jersey
Scenic beauty, strong schools, and historic downtowns make Morris County a desirable location. However, with 2.5% effective rates, many are now exploring locations with a lower property tax burden. A 2023 report by NJ.com highlighted a trend of Morris County residents moving to neighboring Sussex County, which boasts similar charm but with lower taxes.
Passaic County, New Jersey
A mix of industrial areas and vibrant neighborhoods define Passaic County. However, 2.0%, coupled with the high cost of living, is leading some residents to search for areas with a more tax-friendly environment. According to a 2022 report by WNYC, Passaic County is experiencing a trend of gentrification, with young professionals attracted by the lower housing costs compared to nearby areas. However, these newcomers might also be priced out in the long run due to rising property taxes.
Suffolk County, New York (Long Island)
Beaches, wineries, and a mix of suburban and rural areas make Suffolk County appealing. Effective rates approaching 2.5% mean property taxes are a factor, and according to a 2023 report by Newsday, there’s been a decrease in demand for luxury waterfront homes in Suffolk County. This might be due to a combination of high taxes and rising interest rates.
Putnam County, New York
Nature lovers may adore Putnam County’s lakes and outdoor recreation, but effective rates near 2.5% mean property taxes are a concern for some residents. A 2022 article in The Poughkeepsie Journal explores the growing popularity of glamping (glamorous camping) in Putnam County, suggesting a potential rise in short-term rentals catering to tourists who wouldn’t be subject to property taxes.
Orleans County, New York
Agricultural heritage, wineries, and scenic lakefront living are all part of Orleans County’s charm. And yet effective rates hovering around 2.0% mean property taxes are still a consideration. While data on migration patterns is limited, a 2023 report by Buffalo Business First suggests a trend of retirees moving to Orleans County for its peaceful atmosphere and lower cost of living compared to nearby areas. However, rising property taxes mean that this trend might shift even in the near future.
Allegany County, New York
Stunning natural beauty, rolling hills, and charming small towns define Allegany County. However, effective rates near 2.0% mean property taxes are still a significant expense. A 2022 report by WGRZ Buffalo explores the challenges of attracting young families to Allegany County. While the rural setting and lower housing costs compared to urban areas are attractive, high property taxes can negate those benefits.
Monroe County, New York
Home to Rochester, Monroe County offers a mix of urban experiences and access to Lake Ontario. Unfortunately, rates exceeding 2.0% mean property taxes are a burden for some residents. According to a 2023 report by the Rochester Business Journal, there’s been a trend of young professionals leaving Monroe County for neighboring suburbs or smaller cities in New York with a lower cost of living, including property taxes.
Salem County, New Jersey
Southern Jersey charm, agricultural heritage, wineries, and proximity to Delaware Bay make Salem County a rural retreat. However, effective rates exceeding 2.0% mean property taxes are a factor, and according to a 2022 report by NJ.com, there’s been an increase in residents moving to neighboring Cumberland County, which offers a similar rural lifestyle with even lower taxes.
Gloucester County, New Jersey
A mix of suburban and rural areas with a rich history, Gloucester County offers a certain charm. However, effective rates exceeding 3.0%, similar to Bergen County, are causing some residents to search for locations with a lighter property tax burden. A 2023 report by KYW Newsradio Philadelphia highlights Gloucester County as an emerging destination for young families priced out of nearby Philadelphia but warns that the county’s high property taxes could hinder this trend in the long run.
