As a real estate agent in Austin, Texas, it’s important to know the cost of property taxes. While it’s not something most clients think about when requesting showings or visiting open houses, knowing the property tax rates in your area can help your clients make more informed decisions.
Setting your client up for success is one way you can continue to generate more leads and nurture client relationships even after closing. So, whether you’re representing a buyer, seller, or just want more information, we have all you need to know about the property tax rates in Austin, TX for 2022.
Property tax rates in Austin, TX for 2022
Austin is a great city with plenty of opportunities for work, education, and entertainment. It’s also the capital of Texas, which makes it a city rich in history and culture. The neighborhoods range from family-friendly suburbs to bustling urban areas filled with young professionals.
Unfortunately, this also means that the cost of living in Austin will be significantly higher than in smaller cities throughout central Texas. A large portion of this is due to the property tax rates.
In Austin, the 2022 proposed property tax rate is $0.318239—around 31.8 cents—per $100 in Travis County (Austin’s largest and most populated county). This is a reduction from the 2021-2022 property tax rate of $0.357365 per $100. The median home value in Travis County is $338,344, so the average homeowner can expect to spend about $1,090 on property taxes for the county.
In Williamson County, the tax rate for 2022-2023 is $0.375608—around 37.5 cents—per $100. This rate is also a reduction from 2021-2022 property taxes, which was 44.1 cents per $100. The median home value in Williamson County is $332,724. Including any exemptions, the average homeowner can expect to pay around $1,247 in property taxes for the county.
That said, combined with school district taxes, city taxes, college taxes, and any other local government taxes, the property tax rate for Travis County is 2.17% and Williamson County’s is 2.24%.
Will property tax rates rise next year?
Tax rates rose twice during the years of 2017-2019 in Austin, TX. However, a new 2020 bill was signed into law, affecting how much tax rates can go up during a single year.
This bill states that the local government can no longer raise revenue collection by more than 3.5% without voter approval.
For the 2022-2023 FY, the proposed tax rates in Travis County and Williamson County are lower than the 2021-2022 FY.
Tax rates in surrounding areas
Maybe you want to move to Austin, but the tax rates and total property costs are swaying your decision. Don’t worry; you can always choose an area close to Austin.
For reference, here are some of tax rates for areas near Austin, Texas:
- Pflugerville: 2.38%
- Sunset Valley: 1.70%
- Manor: 2.9%
- Round Rock: 2.24%
- San Marcos: 2.2%
- Dripping Springs: 2.0%
These aren’t all the neighboring cities to Austin, but just a few to help you get an estimate of what they would be like. To better assess your property taxes in Austin, please consult the appraisal district for your county.
What does property tax revenue fund in Austin?
The property tax in Texas is a local tax, assessed and collected locally and spent locally. More than 3,700 local governments in Texas—school districts, cities, counties, and other special districts—collect and spend this money.
The majority of community services are paid for through local property taxes in Travis County. These local assessments do not benefit the state government. Your local property taxes go toward funding various essential programs, including:
- Public schools (Austin ISD)
- City streets
- County roads
- Police departments
- Fire protection
As a property owner in Austin, Texas, you may fall under certain homestead exemptions, but you will want to check with your county appraisal district. Additionally, you can attend tax rate public hearings if you’re involved in your local government.
Important tax information to know when moving to Austin, TX
If you’re moving to Austin, TX, you’ll need to know some vital tax information and dates. Listed below are just a few.
First, Texas has no state tax and a low sales tax. This helps keep the cost of living in Austin, TX, low despite the relatively high property tax rates.
On the first of the new year, locals will determine the market value of your property. By January 31, your property taxes must be paid to avoid extra fines. The last day of February will be the deadline for submitting a payment installation plan request.
The rest of the dates only pertain if you are enrolled in a payment plan or protesting a property tax increase.
Need real estate photos in Austin?
If you’re selling a property in Austin, TX, consider using Virtuance to ensure your listing stands out on the market. Virtuance offers professional real estate photography in Austin, including aerial photography, 3D tours, and floor plans, all of which can help sell your property faster and for more money!
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