Connecticut vs Utah
Property‑Tax Comparison: Connecticut vs. Utah
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), Connecticut and Utah differ markedly in how property taxes are assessed and collected. Connecticut’s effective property‑tax rate is more than three times that of Utah, while Utah’s median home values are higher. The figures below provide a side‑by‑side view of the key metrics used to evaluate property‑tax burden in each state.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric | Connecticut | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 1.92 % | 0.53 % |
| Median home value | $343,200 | $455,000 |
| Median annual property tax | $6,575 | $2,412 |
| Property tax on a $250,000 home | $4,789 | $1,325 |
| Property tax on a $500,000 home | $9,579 | $2,651 |
| Median household income | $93,760 | $91,750 |
Sources: Connecticut property tax and Utah property tax.
Who Wins on Property Tax?
Winner (lower tax rate): Utah
- Effective tax‑rate advantage: Utah’s rate of 0.53 % is 1.39 percentage points lower than Connecticut’s 1.92 %—a 72.33 % relative reduction.
- Annual tax savings: For a home valued at $250,000, the annual property‑tax bill in Utah ($1,325) is $3,464 less than in Connecticut ($4,789). For a $500,000 home, the difference widens to $6,928 ($2,651 vs. $9,579).
The lower rate in Utah results from a combination of lower millage levels and a higher proportion of the tax base being assessed at a lower taxable value, as reflected in the ACS data.
Which Audiences May Find This Comparison Most Relevant?
| Audience | Relevance of the Comparison |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | Understanding the ongoing cost of ownership; lower taxes can affect affordability and long‑term budgeting. |
| Retirees and fixed‑income households | Property‑tax burden directly impacts disposable income; states with lower rates may be more attractive for budgeting stability. |
| Real‑estate investors | Tax differentials influence cash‑flow projections and overall return on investment. |
| Policy analysts and local officials | Provides a data‑driven benchmark for evaluating state tax structures and potential reforms. |
The comparison is purely quantitative; it does not address other fiscal considerations such as school funding, public services, or overall cost of living, which may also influence decision‑making.
Summary
Based on the most recent ACS estimates, Utah imposes a substantially lower effective property‑tax rate than Connecticut (0.53 % vs. 1.92 %). This translates into lower annual tax bills across common home price points and a relative tax‑rate reduction of roughly 72 %. Homeowners, retirees, investors, and policymakers can use these figures to assess the direct tax impact of residing in or purchasing property in either state.
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.