2026 effective rate · 0.80% · below the US average (0.99%)
Kentucky Property Tax Calculator
Estimate annual and monthly property tax in Kentucky. The state's effective property tax rate is 0.80% (close to the national average, vs the US average of about 0.99%). On a $177,400 median-value home, that works out to about $1,382 per year or $118 per month.
Kentucky median home property tax
$1,419 per year
$118 per month at the median home value of $177,400
Effective rate 0.80% times $177,400 = $1,419
Kentucky property tax at common home values
| Home value | Annual property tax | Monthly | % of value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150,000 | $1,200 | $100 | 0.80% |
| $177,400 (median) | $1,419 | $118 | 0.80% |
| $250,000 | $2,000 | $167 | 0.80% |
| $350,000 | $2,800 | $233 | 0.80% |
| $500,000 | $4,000 | $333 | 0.80% |
| $750,000 | $6,000 | $500 | 0.80% |
Uses Kentucky's 2026 effective rate (0.80%). Actual taxes vary by county and exemptions. For full PITI mortgage estimate including taxes + insurance, use the Kentucky mortgage calculator.
Kentucky property tax overview
Kentucky has below-average property tax rates. Homestead exemption of $46,350 for homeowners 65+ or disabled. Some cities/counties levy local occupational taxes that affect mortgage affordability.
Kentucky's effective rate of 0.80% ranks close to the national average nationally. Median annual property tax: $1,382. Median home value: $177,400.
Kentucky vs neighboring states
| State | Effective rate | Median home | Median annual tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky (this page) | 0.80% | $177,400 | $1,382 |
| Ohio | 1.36% | $204,200 | $2,770 |
| West Virginia | 0.57% | $134,200 | $768 |
| Virginia | 0.80% | $348,300 | $2,780 |
FAQs about Kentucky property tax
What is the property tax rate in Kentucky?
Kentucky's effective property tax rate is 0.80% (close to the national average, vs national average of ~0.99%). On a $177,400 median-value home, that's about $1,382 per year, or roughly $118 per month added to your housing cost.
How is property tax calculated in Kentucky?
Property tax = assessed value times the local mill rate (millage). The effective rate (0.80%) 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 0.80% for an annual estimate.
When are property taxes due in Kentucky?
Property tax due dates vary by county within Kentucky. 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 Kentucky have a homestead exemption?
Kentucky has below-average property tax rates. Homestead exemption of $46,350 for homeowners 65+ or disabled. Some cities/counties levy local occupational taxes that affect mortgage affordability.
How does Kentucky property tax compare to neighboring states?
Kentucky's 0.80% rate compares to: Ohio (1.36%), West Virginia (0.57%), Virginia (0.80%). 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 Kentucky?
Yes. Every US state including Kentucky 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 Kentucky 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.