California vs Idaho
Property Tax Comparison: California vs Idaho
Intro
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), California and Idaho differ markedly in property‑tax burdens, home values, and median household incomes. The following side‑by‑side data highlight those differences and indicate which state imposes the lower effective property‑tax rate.
Key Metrics (Side‑by‑Side)
| Metric | California | Idaho |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property tax rate | 0.71 % | 0.53 % |
| Median home value | $695,400 | $376,000 |
| Median annual property tax | $4,926 | $2,006 |
| Tax on a $250,000 home | $1,771 | $1,334 |
| Tax on a $500,000 home | $3,542 | $2,667 |
| Median household income | $96,334 | $74,636 |
Source: According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Which State Has the Lower Property‑Tax Rate?
Winner: Idaho
- Rate difference: 0.71 % – 0.53 % = 0.18 percentage points, which is a 24.7 % lower effective rate in Idaho.
- Annual tax difference on a $250,000 home: $1,771 – $1,334 = $437 (Idaho lower).
- Annual tax difference on a $500,000 home: $3,542 – $2,667 = $875 (Idaho lower).
Because Idaho’s effective property‑tax rate is lower, the state imposes a smaller tax burden on comparable property values. The difference persists across the $250 k and $500 k price points shown in the table.
Who Might Find This Comparison Most Relevant?
| Audience | Relevance of the Comparison |
|---|---|
| Current homeowners | Understanding how property‑tax obligations differ can inform budgeting and potential relocation decisions. |
| Homebuyers (including first‑time buyers) | The tax component directly affects the total cost of ownership; lower rates in Idaho may offset its lower median home price. |
| Retirees | Property taxes are a significant factor in fixed‑income budgeting; a lower rate can reduce annual expenses. |
| Real‑estate investors | Effective tax rates influence cash‑flow projections and overall return on investment. |
| Policy analysts | The data provide a baseline for evaluating the impact of state‑level tax policies on residents. |
The comparison is factual and does not endorse either state; it simply reflects the relative tax burden as reported by the latest ACS data.
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References
U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 American Community Survey 5‑Year Estimates. All figures are derived from the ACS tables on housing characteristics and tax assessments.
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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.