Lafayette County, Wisconsin Property Taxes

Local government entities set tax rates, which can vary widely within a state. Each county annually estimates its required budget to provide services and divides that by the total value of all taxable property within its jurisdiction, resulting in the property tax rate. While votes and laws play a role, this is the annual process in a nutshell.

Lafayette County in Wisconsin has an effective property tax rate of 1.84%, which is significantly higher than the national median property tax rate of 1.02%. This means homeowners in Lafayette County may face higher property tax bills compared to many other parts of the country. Within the county, Darlington has the highest median tax rate at 2.37%, while Blanchardville has the lowest at 1.65%. This variation within the county highlights how property tax rates can differ even within a relatively small geographic area. By understanding these rates, property owners can better anticipate their annual tax obligations and explore potential savings through appeals or exemptions.

In Lafayette County, WI, property tax bills are calculated based on the assessed value of a property, which is determined by local assessors. This assessed value is then multiplied by the local tax rate to determine the annual tax bill. The median home price in Lafayette County is $15,150, significantly lower than the national median, resulting in relatively modest tax bills. The 25th percentile tax bill is $102, while the 75th percentile tax bill is $1,123. At the 90th percentile, homeowners face a tax bill of $2,355, which is still below the national median property tax bill of $2,400.

Factors influencing the tax bill include the property's location, as different areas may have varying tax rates. For instance, the highest median tax bill in the county is found in Darlington at $489, whereas Shullsburg has the lowest at $169. These differences can significantly impact homeowners, as higher property taxes can affect affordability and the overall cost of homeownership. Understanding these factors is crucial for homeowners looking to manage their expenses effectively.