Arizona vs Pennsylvania
Arizona vs. Pennsylvania Property Taxes: A Data‑Driven Comparison
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), the two states differ noticeably in effective property‑tax rates, median home values, and the resulting tax burdens for typical homeowners. The following sections present the data side‑by‑side, identify which state has the lower rate, and discuss the implications for various groups of property owners.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Metric | Arizona | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.52 % | 1.35 % |
| Median home value | $358,900 | $240,500 |
| Median annual property tax | $1,858 | $3,241 |
| Tax on a $250,000 home | $1,294 | $3,369 |
| Tax on a $500,000 home | $2,589 | $6,738 |
| Median household income | $76,872 | $76,081 |
| Link to state‑specific page | Arizona property tax | Pennsylvania property tax |
All figures are derived from the 2023 ACS 5‑year estimates.
Which State Has the Lower Property‑Tax Burden?
- Winner (lower effective rate): Arizona (0.52 % vs. 1.35 %).
- Absolute rate difference: 0.83 percentage points.
- Relative rate difference: 0.83 % ÷ 1.35 % ≈ 61.6 % lower in Arizona.
The lower rate translates into smaller annual tax bills for comparable property values:
| Home value | Annual tax in Arizona | Annual tax in Pennsylvania | Difference (PA – AZ) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $250,000 | $1,294 | $3,369 | $2,075 |
| $500,000 | $2,589 | $6,738 | $4,149 |
Because the effective rate is the primary driver of the tax amount, Arizona consistently yields lower property‑tax payments across the price points shown.
Who Benefits Most from This Comparison?
| Audience | Relevance of the Data |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | Knowing the effective tax rate and median tax amounts helps estimate ongoing housing costs when comparing locations. |
| Retirees on fixed incomes | Lower property taxes can reduce the amount of income needed to cover housing expenses, especially in states where other taxes (e.g., income tax) are also a factor. |
| Real‑estate investors | The tax burden influences cash‑flow projections; a lower rate improves net operating income for rental properties. |
| Policy analysts or planners | The contrast illustrates how state‑level tax structures affect household financial burdens relative to median income levels. |
All groups should consider the tax rate alongside other fiscal variables (e.g., sales tax, income tax, and local service fees) to form a complete picture of overall cost of living.
Summary
Based on U.S. Census Bureau data from the 2023 ACS, Arizona’s effective property‑tax rate of 0.52 % is substantially lower than Pennsylvania’s 1.35 %, representing a 61.6 % relative advantage. This difference produces annual tax savings of $2,075 on a $250,000 home and $4,149 on a $500,000 home. The lower tax burden may be particularly relevant for homeowners, retirees, and investors who prioritize predictable, lower ongoing housing costs.
For more detailed information on each state’s tax rules and assessment practices, see the dedicated pages: Arizona property tax and Pennsylvania property tax.
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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.