Georgia vs Maine
Property‑Tax Comparison: Georgia vs. Maine
Introduction
Both Georgia and Maine levy property taxes that fund local services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates), the two states differ noticeably in effective tax rates, median home values, and the resulting annual tax bills. This article presents the key figures side‑by‑side, identifies which state has the lower rate, and outlines the homeowner groups for whom the comparison is most relevant.
Side‑by‑Side Metrics
| Metric | Georgia | Maine |
|---|---|---|
| Effective property‑tax rate | 0.81 % | 1.10 % |
| Median home value | $272,900 | $266,400 |
| Median annual property tax | $2,214 | $2,926 |
| Tax on a $250,000 home | $2,028 | $2,746 |
| Tax on a $500,000 home | $4,057 | $5,492 |
| Median household income | $74,664 | $71,773 |
| Internal link | Georgia property tax | Maine property tax |
All figures are derived from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey (5‑year estimates).
Which State “Wins” on Property Tax?
Winner (lower tax rate): Georgia
- Effective tax‑rate difference: 0.29 percentage points, which represents a 26.13 % lower rate than Maine.
- Annual tax difference on a $250 k home: $718 less in Georgia.
- Annual tax difference on a $500 k home: $1,435 less in Georgia.
Because the effective property‑tax rate directly determines the proportion of a home’s assessed value that must be paid each year, Georgia’s lower rate results in smaller yearly tax bills across the price points shown above. Based on the most recent ACS estimates, homeowners in Georgia pay roughly one‑quarter less in property tax than comparable homeowners in Maine.
Who Might Find This Comparison Most Useful?
| Audience | Relevance of the Comparison |
|---|---|
| Current or prospective homeowners | Understanding the ongoing cost of ownership; lower property taxes can affect overall affordability. |
| Retirees and fixed‑income households | Property‑tax burden is a significant component of fixed expenses; a lower rate may provide more budget flexibility. |
| Real‑estate investors | Tax rates influence cash‑flow calculations and long‑term return projections. |
| Policy analysts or local officials | The data illustrate how state‑level tax structures differ, useful for benchmarking. |
The information presented is factual and does not constitute financial advice. Individuals should consider additional factors—such as local tax exemptions, assessment practices, and other cost‑of‑living elements—when evaluating overall affordability.
Summary
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, Georgia’s effective property‑tax rate of 0.81 % is lower than Maine’s 1.10 %, leading to lower median annual taxes and smaller tax bills on both $250 k and $500 k homes. The comparison is particularly pertinent for homeowners, retirees, and investors who prioritize the recurring cost of property ownership.
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.