2026 effective rate · 1.12% · above the US average (0.99%)
Massachusetts Property Tax Calculator
Estimate annual and monthly property tax in Massachusetts. The state's effective property tax rate is 1.12% (close to the national average, vs the US average of about 0.99%). On a $498,700 median-value home, that works out to about $5,618 per year or $465 per month.
Massachusetts median home property tax
$5,585 per year
$465 per month at the median home value of $498,700
Effective rate 1.12% times $498,700 = $5,585
Massachusetts property tax at common home values
| Home value | Annual property tax | Monthly | % of value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150,000 | $1,680 | $140 | 1.12% |
| $250,000 | $2,800 | $233 | 1.12% |
| $350,000 | $3,920 | $327 | 1.12% |
| $498,700 (median) | $5,585 | $465 | 1.12% |
| $500,000 | $5,600 | $467 | 1.12% |
| $750,000 | $8,400 | $700 | 1.12% |
Uses Massachusetts's 2026 effective rate (1.12%). Actual taxes vary by county and exemptions. For full PITI mortgage estimate including taxes + insurance, use the Massachusetts mortgage calculator.
Massachusetts property tax overview
Massachusetts has Proposition 2½, limiting annual property tax levy increases to 2.5%. Senior/disabled exemptions vary by municipality. Higher home values mean higher absolute tax bills.
Massachusetts's effective rate of 1.12% ranks close to the national average nationally. Median annual property tax: $5,618. Median home value: $498,700.
Massachusetts vs neighboring states
| State | Effective rate | Median home | Median annual tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts (this page) | 1.12% | $498,700 | $5,618 |
| New Hampshire | 1.86% | $343,200 | $6,372 |
| Vermont | 1.83% | $285,800 | $5,230 |
| New York | 1.46% | $384,100 | $6,280 |
FAQs about Massachusetts property tax
What is the property tax rate in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts's effective property tax rate is 1.12% (close to the national average, vs national average of ~0.99%). On a $498,700 median-value home, that's about $5,618 per year, or roughly $465 per month added to your housing cost.
How is property tax calculated in Massachusetts?
Property tax = assessed value times the local mill rate (millage). The effective rate (1.12%) 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 1.12% for an annual estimate.
When are property taxes due in Massachusetts?
Property tax due dates vary by county within Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts have a homestead exemption?
Massachusetts offers various property tax relief programs. Massachusetts has Proposition 2½, limiting annual property tax levy increases to 2.5%. Senior/disabled exemptions vary by municipality. Higher home values mean higher absolute tax bills. Check with your county assessor for primary-residence exemptions and senior or disabled programs that may reduce your annual property tax bill.
How does Massachusetts property tax compare to neighboring states?
Massachusetts's 1.12% rate compares to: New Hampshire (1.86%), Vermont (1.83%), New York (1.46%). 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 Massachusetts?
Yes. Every US state including Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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.