Arizona vs Maryland
Property‑Tax Comparison: Arizona vs. Maryland
Intro
Both Arizona and Maryland levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, police, and infrastructure. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), Arizona’s effective property‑tax rate is roughly half that of Maryland. The following table presents the key metrics side by side, allowing readers to see how the two states differ in terms of tax burden, home values, and household income.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric | Arizona | Maryland |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.52 % | 1.00 % |
| Median home value | $358,900 | $397,700 |
| Median annual property tax | $1,858 | $3,989 |
| Tax on a $250,000 home | $1,294 | $2,507 |
| Tax on a $500,000 home | $2,589 | $5,015 |
| Median household income | $76,872 | $101,652 |
Sources: According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Which State Has the Lower Property‑Tax Burden?
Winner: Arizona
- Effective tax‑rate advantage: 0.52 % vs. 1.00 % (a 0.48 % absolute difference, representing a 48.38 % lower rate).
- Annual tax on a $250 k home: Arizona $1,294 vs. Maryland $2,507 – a $1,213 difference.
- Annual tax on a $500 k home: Arizona $2,589 vs. Maryland $5,015 – a $2,426 difference.
Because the effective property‑tax rate is the primary determinant of the annual levy, Arizona’s lower rate translates into consistently lower property‑tax payments across comparable home values.
Who Is Likely to Benefit Most from This Comparison?
| Audience | Relevance of the Data |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | The table shows the expected annual tax liability for typical home prices. Buyers can incorporate these figures into affordability calculations. |
| Retirees considering relocation | Property taxes directly affect fixed‑income budgets. A lower tax rate (as in Arizona) may make the state more financially sustainable for retirees. |
| Real‑estate investors | Investors can compare the tax burden against potential rental income and capital appreciation, noting that Maryland’s higher median income may offset higher taxes in some markets. |
| Policy analysts / planners | The side‑by‑side metrics provide a concise snapshot for evaluating fiscal policy impacts on housing affordability across states. |
All groups should also consider other cost‑of‑living components (e.g., sales tax, income tax, health‑care costs) when making decisions, as property tax is only one element of overall expenses.
Further Reading
- Detailed information about Arizona’s property‑tax system: Arizona property tax
- Detailed information about Maryland’s property‑tax system: Maryland property tax
Based on the most recent ACS estimates, the figures above reflect statewide medians and rates. Local jurisdictions within each state may have variations.
Explore More Comparisons
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.