Jackson County, Iowa Property Taxes

Local government entities set tax rates, which can vary widely within a state. Annually, each county estimates its required budget to provide services and divides that by the total value of all taxable property within its jurisdiction. This calculation results in the property tax rate. While there are votes and laws involved in setting tax rates and budgets, in a nutshell, this is the annual process. Below, you can compare Jackson County's effective property tax rate to other counties in Iowa or the U.S. median property tax rate.

In Jackson County, the median property tax rate stands at 1.24%, which is above the national median of 1.02%. Within the county, Preston has the highest median tax rate at 1.40%, while Delmar boasts the lowest at 0.97%. These figures highlight the variation in property tax rates even within a single county. Understanding these differences can be crucial for property owners looking to manage their tax liabilities effectively. By staying informed about local tax rates and potential exemptions, property owners can make more strategic decisions regarding their real estate investments.

In Jackson County, Iowa, property tax bills are calculated based on the assessed value of a home, which reflects its estimated market value. The local tax rate is then applied to this assessed value to determine the tax bill. Various factors, including property location, size, and improvements, influence the assessed value. This process ensures that the tax burden is distributed fairly among homeowners, reflecting the value of their property.

Homeowners in Jackson County experience a range of tax bills. For instance, the median home price is $157,800, with tax bills varying significantly. The 25th percentile tax bill is $1,218, while the 75th percentile reaches $2,992, and the 90th percentile can be as high as $4,214. Bellevue, within Jackson County, has the highest median tax bill at $2,720, whereas Bernard has the lowest at $879. Comparatively, the national median property tax rate is 1.02%, with a median tax bill of $2,400. Understanding these dynamics helps homeowners anticipate their financial obligations and manage their budgets effectively.