Townsend, Massachusetts Property Taxes
The median property tax rate in Townsend, MA is 1.53%, considerably higher than both the national median of 0.99% and the Massachusetts state median of 1.23%. With the median home value in Townsend at $350,150, the typical annual property tax bill reaches $5,344, exceeding the national median of $2,690. Property taxes in Townsend are calculated based on the tax assessed value, which typically falls below the market value due to various exemptions like the primary residence and agricultural exemptions. Understanding Townsend's property tax system, exploring available exemptions, and identifying opportunities for reductions can lead to significant annual savings. Whether you're in the heart of Townsend or another part of the city, understanding the local property tax system will benefit both homeowners and real estate investors.
Last Updated June 14, 2024
Townsend, Massachusetts Property Tax Bill Calculator
$100,000
$2,500,000
$5,000,000
Average Tax Rate
1.23%
Estimate Property Tax Bill
$2,460
Ownwell’s Townsend Property Tax Bill Calculator helps any homeowner, real estate investor, or potential owner estimate their annual property taxes in Townsend with just two data points. By entering your property's estimated assessed value, the calculator applies the median tax rate in Townsend to estimate your property tax bill. This insightful tool helps you understand potential tax liabilities. If you’re interested in seeing trends on a neighborhood level, scroll down to find more localized information. Your property’s assessed value is the value assigned by the county for property tax calculations, accounting for any exemptions that may apply.
Property Tax Rates Across Townsend, Massachusetts
Property taxes in Townsend, Massachusetts, play a crucial role in funding essential local services such as public schools, road maintenance, and emergency services. The median tax rate in Townsend is 1.53%, significantly higher than the U.S. national median of 0.99%. Local government entities within Townsend set these rates annually, and they can vary significantly across different neighborhoods. Each year, Townsend estimates its required budget to maintain services for the upcoming fiscal year, then divides this budget by the total value of all taxable property within the jurisdiction to calculate the property tax rate. While tax rates and budgets are influenced by laws and voter input, this calculation forms the basis of setting property tax rates. The data below compares Townsend's effective property tax rate to other areas in Middlesex County and the national median. For comparison, the zip code 01474 has the highest median property tax rate of 1.53%, while zip code 01469 has the lowest median tax rate of 1.53%. Understanding how these areas compare with Townsend provides valuable insights into the varying tax landscape across Middlesex County, helping homeowners gain a clearer picture of their property tax obligations relative to neighboring areas.
Average Townsend Tax Rate
1.53%
Average Middlesex County Tax Rate
1.22%
Average Massachusetts Tax Rate
1.23%
Average United States Tax Rate
0.99%
Property Tax Rates Across Townsend, Massachusetts
| Zip | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Tax Rate | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01469 | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.53% |
| 01474 | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.53% |
Source: Ownwell
Property Tax Assessment Values Across Townsend, Massachusetts
In Townsend, Massachusetts, understanding the difference between "market value" and "assessed value" is crucial for comprehending property taxes. The market value is the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller in an open and competitive market, influenced by factors like location, property condition, and economic trends. This value is estimated by the Middlesex County Appraisal District for tax purposes. In contrast, the assessed value is the market value minus any applicable exemptions or limits based on local laws and available programs. The assessed value is then used to calculate your property taxes by multiplying it by the combined tax rates of all relevant taxing entities. In Townsend, assessment notices are typically mailed out in the spring, usually by mid-April. These notices provide homeowners with both the market and assessed values, along with an estimate of the annual property tax bill. By understanding the distinction between these valuation concepts, property owners can better navigate their tax responsibilities and comprehend how their property taxes are determined. Being aware of these valuation processes in Townsend helps identify opportunities for protesting assessments or applying for exemptions to effectively manage the tax burden. The highest median tax bill in Townsend is $5,344 in the 01469 zip code, while the lowest is $2,495 in the 01474 zip code.
Property Tax Assessment Values Across Townsend, Massachusetts
Source: Ownwell
$105,700
$984,600
$1,863,500
Average Townsend Assessed Value
$350,150
Average Middlesex County Assessed Value
$633,600
Average Massachusetts Assessed Value
$492,600
Average United States Assessed Value
$244,900
Property Tax Assessment Values Across Townsend, Massachusetts
| Zip | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Home Price | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01469 | $234,740 | $301,500 | $350,200 | $422,100 | $530,920 |
| 01474 | $163,500 | $163,500 | $163,500 | $163,500 | $163,500 |
Source: Ownwell
Property Tax Bills Across Townsend, Massachusetts
In Townsend, Middlesex County, MA, property tax bills are calculated based on the assessed value of a home, which is determined by the local assessor’s office. The assessed value is a percentage of the market value of the property. Once the assessed value is established, the local tax rate, known as the mill rate, is applied. This rate is set annually by the town and reflects the budgetary needs for public services such as schools, infrastructure, and emergency services. For example, with a median home price of $350,150, homeowners in Townsend can expect a significant property tax bill. The tax bill at the 25th percentile is $4,601, while at the 75th percentile, it rises to $6,440. The highest median tax bill in the area is $5,344 in the 01469 zip code, and the lowest is $2,495 in the 01474 zip code. These figures illustrate the range of property tax burdens homeowners might face, highlighting how crucial it is to understand the factors influencing their tax bills and to plan accordingly.
Average Townsend Tax Bill
$5,344
Average Middlesex County Tax Bill
$7,427
Average Massachusetts Tax Bill
$5,844
Average United States Tax Bill
$2,690
Property Tax Bills Across Townsend, Massachusetts
| Zip | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Tax Bill | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01469 | $3,582 | $4,601 | $5,344 | $6,441 | $8,102 |
| 01474 | $2,495 | $2,495 | $2,495 | $2,495 | $2,495 |
Source: Ownwell