2026 effective rate · 1.40% · above the US average (0.99%)
Iowa Property Tax Calculator
Estimate annual and monthly property tax in Iowa. The state's effective property tax rate is 1.40% (close to the national average, vs the US average of about 0.99%). On a $185,100 median-value home, that works out to about $2,650 per year or $216 per month.
Iowa median home property tax
$2,591 per year
$216 per month at the median home value of $185,100
Effective rate 1.40% times $185,100 = $2,591
Iowa property tax at common home values
| Home value | Annual property tax | Monthly | % of value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150,000 | $2,100 | $175 | 1.40% |
| $185,100 (median) | $2,591 | $216 | 1.40% |
| $250,000 | $3,500 | $292 | 1.40% |
| $350,000 | $4,900 | $408 | 1.40% |
| $500,000 | $7,000 | $583 | 1.40% |
| $750,000 | $10,500 | $875 | 1.40% |
Uses Iowa's 2026 effective rate (1.40%). Actual taxes vary by county and exemptions. For full PITI mortgage estimate including taxes + insurance, use the Iowa mortgage calculator.
Iowa property tax overview
Iowa has above-average property tax rates and complex rollback calculations that limit taxable value. Homestead credit reduces tax on first $4,850 of value.
Iowa's effective rate of 1.40% ranks close to the national average nationally. Median annual property tax: $2,650. Median home value: $185,100.
Iowa vs neighboring states
FAQs about Iowa property tax
What is the property tax rate in Iowa?
Iowa's effective property tax rate is 1.40% (close to the national average, vs national average of ~0.99%). On a $185,100 median-value home, that's about $2,650 per year, or roughly $216 per month added to your housing cost.
How is property tax calculated in Iowa?
Property tax = assessed value times the local mill rate (millage). The effective rate (1.40%) is what you actually pay as a percentage of market value, accounting for assessment ratios, exemptions, and millage. For a home valued at X, multiply X by 1.40% for an annual estimate.
When are property taxes due in Iowa?
Property tax due dates vary by county within Iowa. Most counties bill annually with either a single payment or two installments. Common payment deadlines fall in late summer (1st half) and late winter (2nd half). Check with your county tax assessor for exact dates and any escrow arrangements through your mortgage lender.
Does Iowa have a homestead exemption?
Iowa has above-average property tax rates and complex rollback calculations that limit taxable value. Homestead credit reduces tax on first $4,850 of value.
How does Iowa property tax compare to neighboring states?
Iowa's 1.40% rate compares to: Minnesota (1.01%), Wisconsin (1.63%), Illinois (1.97%). Property tax burden can vary significantly between neighboring states — moving 30 miles across a state line can change your annual tax bill by thousands.
Can I appeal my property tax assessment in Iowa?
Yes. Every US state including Iowa provides a formal property tax appeal process. Steps: (1) request your property's assessment record from the county assessor, (2) gather comparable sales from your neighborhood, (3) file a formal appeal within the deadline (usually 30-60 days after assessment notice). Successful appeals typically save 5-15% on annual tax bills.
How can I lower my Iowa property taxes?
Common strategies: apply for homestead exemption (primary residence), senior or disabled exemptions if eligible, veteran's exemptions, and appeal over-assessment. Track your county's assessment notices carefully and verify the appraisal matches recent comparable home sales. Avoid major visible upgrades right before reassessment dates.