Connecticut vs Massachusetts
Massachusetts
Property‑Tax Comparison: Connecticut vs. Massachusetts
Introduction
Both Connecticut and Massachusetts levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure. The two states differ in tax rates, median home values, and average tax bills. Using the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, this article presents a side‑by‑side view of the key metrics and identifies which state imposes a lower effective property‑tax burden.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison (2023 ACS 5‑Year Estimates)
| Metric | Connecticut | Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 1.92 % | 1.11 % |
| Median home value | $343,200 | $525,800 |
| Median annual property tax | $6,575 | $5,813 |
| Property tax on a $250,000 home | $4,789 | $2,764 |
| Property tax on a $500,000 home | $9,579 | $5,528 |
| Median household income | $93,760 | $101,341 |
| Internal link | Connecticut property tax | Massachusetts property tax |
All figures are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Which State Has the Lower Tax Burden?
Winner (lower effective rate): Massachusetts
- Rate difference: 0.81 percentage points, which is a 42.29 % lower rate than Connecticut.
- Annual tax difference on a $250,000 home: $2,025 less in Massachusetts.
- Annual tax difference on a $500,000 home: $4,051 less in Massachusetts.
The lower effective tax rate in Massachusetts translates into lower absolute tax payments for comparable property values, despite the state’s higher median home price.
Who Is This Comparison Most Relevant For?
| Audience | Relevance of the Comparison |
|---|---|
| Current homeowners | Understanding how a change of residence could affect their yearly tax bill. The lower rate in Massachusetts may offset the higher home prices for some owners. |
| Prospective homebuyers | Evaluating total housing costs (price + tax) when choosing between the two markets. |
| Retirees | Many retirees rely on fixed incomes; a lower property‑tax rate can reduce fixed‑cost expenses. Massachusetts’ rate may be more favorable, though overall cost of living and home values should also be considered. |
| Real‑estate investors | Tax rate directly impacts cash‑flow projections. A 42 % lower rate in Massachusetts could improve net returns on comparable properties. |
| Policy analysts | The data illustrate how tax policy and home‑value levels interact across neighboring states. |
The comparison is purely quantitative; it does not account for other fiscal factors such as state income taxes, sales taxes, or local service levels, which may also influence decision‑making.
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates) – property‑tax rates, median home values, median household incomes, and calculated tax amounts.
All numbers reflect the most recent ACS estimates available at the time of writing.
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.