Alaska vs Kentucky
Property Tax Comparison: Alaska vs. Kentucky
Brief overview
Both Alaska and Kentucky levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, roads, and public safety. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), Kentucky’s effective property‑tax rate is lower than Alaska’s. The following sections present the key metrics side by side, identify which state has the lower rate, and note the types of buyers for whom this information is most relevant.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric | Alaska | Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 1.14 % | 0.77 % |
| Median home value | $333,300 | $192,300 |
| Median annual property tax | $3,785 | $1,472 |
| Property tax on a $250,000 home | $2,839 | $1,914 |
| Property tax on a $500,000 home | $5,678 | $3,827 |
| Median household income | $89,336 | $62,417 |
Source: According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Which State “Wins” on Property Taxes?
- Winner (lower tax rate): Kentucky
- Rate difference: 0.37 percentage points (approximately a 32.59 % lower effective rate than Alaska).
- Annual tax difference on a $250k home: $925 lower in Kentucky.
- Annual tax difference on a $500k home: $1,851 lower in Kentucky.
The lower effective rate in Kentucky translates into lower annual tax bills across comparable home price points. This outcome is based solely on the effective property‑tax rate; other factors such as local service levels, assessment practices, and additional state or local taxes are not considered here.
Who Is This Comparison Most Useful For?
| Audience | Relevance of the Comparison |
|---|---|
| Current homeowners | Understanding how their property‑tax burden may change if they relocate between these states. |
| Prospective homebuyers | Evaluating the ongoing cost of ownership when comparing homes of similar price ranges. |
| Retirees | Assessing affordability, especially since many retirees are sensitive to fixed‑income budgets and property‑tax expenses. |
| Real‑estate investors | Comparing tax liabilities that affect cash‑flow projections for rental properties. |
| Policy analysts | Using the data as a baseline for studying the impact of tax policy on housing markets. |
The comparison is neutral and data‑driven; it does not incorporate other cost‑of‑living components such as income tax, sales tax, or insurance premiums.
Further Reading
- Detailed information on Alaska’s property‑tax structure: Alaska property tax
- Detailed information on Kentucky’s property‑tax structure: Kentucky property tax
Based on the most recent ACS estimates, the figures above reflect average conditions across each state and may vary at the county or municipal level.
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Discover how property taxes compare across all states in our comprehensive comparison guide.
Data Source
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates). This comprehensive dataset provides reliable, standardized property tax information across all states.