Texas Cities with the Lowest and Highest Property Tax Rates in 2026

Average property tax rates in Texas by city and county

Property taxes are a major component of the cost of living in Texas. Since Texas does not collect state income tax (huge pro of living in Texas), homeowners rely on county, city, and school district rates to determine their final property tax bill.

The easiest way to compare cities at scale is to use county-level effective tax averages and identify the major city inside each county. Please keep in mind that the total property tax burden is driven by a combination of county, city, school district, and special district rates.

The following chart provides a data-driven look at counties with the lowest and highest average effective property tax rates in 2026. This can be used as a directional guide rather than a precise calculation when evaluating Texas cities with the lowest and highest property tax rates.

Texas property tax comparison chart for major cities 2026

Texas cities with the lowest average property tax rates

These cities benefit from counties with lower overall tax burdens, which directly enhances their competitiveness in a market where affordability is a primary decision driver. Lower county rates reduce the baseline cost of homeownership, allowing buyers to access more square footage, higher-quality neighborhoods, or stronger school districts without exceeding their budget.

This dynamic makes these cities particularly attractive to cost-conscious buyers, young families, and relocating professionals who want financial efficiency without compromising access to amenities, job centers, or long-term growth potential.

San Angelo property tax rates (Tom Green County)

Tom Green County posts one of the lowest average effective tax rates in Texas, and San Angelo benefits directly from this structure. Home prices remain moderate and tax levels are stable. Buyers searching for low property tax cities in Texas frequently consider San Angelo for its balance of affordability and livability.

Wichita Falls property tax rates (Wichita County)

Wichita County averages remain below the statewide rate, which makes Wichita Falls a consistent choice for homeowners seeking low property taxes and accessible housing. Families and retirees value the predictable tax environment and the lower cost of living throughout the region.

Lubbock property tax rates (Lubbock County)

Lubbock County remains competitive with a below-average tax rate for a large regional economic center. The area draws students, young professionals, and families who want affordable homeownership and stable tax bills year over year.

San Antonio property tax rates (Bexar County)

Bexar County’s average rate is one of the lowest among Texas’s major metros. San Antonio residents benefit from a strong job market, diverse housing options, and more cost-efficient property tax bills compared to Austin, Dallas, or Houston.

El Paso property tax rates (El Paso County)

El Paso County maintains a favorable tax environment that supports long-term affordability. El Paso remains a top option for Texas buyers searching for lower property taxes in a large, full-service city.

Texas cities with the highest average property tax rates

These counties have higher tax averages due to rapidly growing populations, premium school districts, and increasing property values. Buyers should understand these cost impacts when budgeting for a home in one of these regions.

Austin property tax rates (Travis County)

Travis County carries one of the highest average effective property tax rates in Texas. Fast population growth, rising property valuations, and strong school district funding requirements all contribute. Many homebuyers evaluate nearby counties when looking for more affordable options.

Dallas property tax rates (Dallas County)

Dallas County maintains elevated average property tax rates due to multiple taxing jurisdictions and high service demands. The area remains desirable, but homeowners typically face higher annual tax bills than the statewide average.

Houston property tax rates (Harris County)

Harris County residents experience one of the highest property tax averages among large Texas counties. At the same time, living in Houston remains highly desirable thanks to its economic scale, diverse job market, and access to world-class amenities. The city continues to be a major economic engine for the state, but rising appraisals and the layered structure of multiple taxing units contribute to upward pressure on overall property tax bills.

Plano, McKinney, and Frisco property tax rates (Collin County)

Collin County’s premium suburbs reflect strong school district investments and infrastructure growth. This leads to a higher average tax rate that supports the region’s development and public services.

Sugar Land and Missouri City property tax rates (Fort Bend County)

Fort Bend County maintains one of the highest average property tax rates in Texas. High-performing schools, expanding neighborhoods, and rising home values increase the county’s overall effective rate.

How property taxes vary across Texas regions

Texas property tax rates differ widely between urban, suburban, and mid-sized counties. These differences influence overall affordability and long-term cost of living.

Urban counties carry higher average property tax rates

Large populations require more funding for schools, roads, public safety, and infrastructure. Counties like Harris, Dallas, and Travis typically carry higher average rates due to service demands and rising valuations.

Suburban counties trend toward moderate or high tax levels

Growing suburbs like Collin and Fort Bend invest heavily in schools and community development. These budgets raise county averages and create a higher cost of ownership for new residents.

Mid-sized and rural counties offer lower property taxes

Counties such as Tom Green, Wichita, and Lubbock maintain lower cost structures, which results in lower average tax rates and more favorable affordability metrics.

Why property taxes matter when choosing a Texas city

Property taxes influence a homeowner’s total monthly budget more than many buyers expect. Higher tax rates can significantly increase annual housing costs. Lower rates help buyers stretch their budgets and reduce long-term financial pressure.

Evaluating county-level averages gives a more accurate picture than looking at city limits alone.

What affects property tax rates in Texas

Several factors drive variations in property tax rates throughout the state:

Appraisal district valuations

County appraisal districts determine a property’s taxable value. Areas with fast-rising home prices see higher tax bills even if rates remain stable.

Local taxing jurisdictions

Counties, cities, school districts, community colleges, and special districts all levy taxes. The number of entities directly affects total tax burden.

Public service and infrastructure needs

Growing regions require investment in roads, utilities, schools, and first responders. These needs increase annual budgets and affect tax levels.

Ways homeowners can reduce their property tax burden

Apply for Homestead Exemption

Eligible homeowners can reduce the taxable value on their primary residence. This lowers annual tax bills and provides protection against large appraisal increases.

Appeal for a high appraisal

Homeowners can challenge valuation increases by submitting comparable sales or evidence that supports a lower appraised value.

Explore exemptions for seniors or disabled veterans

Texas offers special exemptions that significantly reduce property tax bills for qualifying residents.

Home affordability in Texas beyond property taxes

Property taxes are only one part of evaluating overall affordability. Homebuyers should also consider:

• Home prices
• Mortgage rates
• Insurance premiums
• Utility expenses

BKV Energy helps Texas homeowners manage monthly budgets through simple and transparent fixed-rate electricity plans. Affordable power is an important part of the long-term cost of living, especially in regions with higher property taxes. Enter your zip code below to get current rates in your area!

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