News Summary
New York is ranked as the fourth most expensive state in terms of property taxes, with a median bill of $6,450. However, various counties offer significantly lower property tax rates, providing budget-friendly options for residents. A Kiplinger analysis highlights ten counties in New York where median tax bills are less than half of the state average, presenting opportunities for affordable living amid the state’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
New York has been identified as the fourth most expensive state in the U.S. for homeowners, with a median property tax bill of $6,450. However, recent findings highlight a range of counties where property tax bills are significantly lower than the state average, offering affordable living options for residents. Kiplinger analyzed 2025 data from the Tax Foundation, derived from the U.S. Census Bureau, and discovered ten counties in New York where property tax bills are less than half of the state’s median.
Top Counties for Affordable Property Taxes in New York
The counties producing the lowest property tax bills reveal significant savings for homeowners, attracting individuals seeking budget-friendly options. Here are the top ten counties with their respective median property tax bills and information on what each location has to offer:
1. Delaware County
Median Property Tax Bill: $3,059
Median Home Price: $176,200
Situated in the picturesque Catskill Mountains, Delaware County presents outdoor activities including hiking, canoeing, and skiing, making it a perfect haven for nature lovers.
2. Cattaraugus County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,946
Median Home Price: $109,400
Known for its serene environment and abundant nature, Cattaraugus County features ski resorts and state parks, appealing to those who appreciate peaceful living.
3. Otsego County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,911
Median Home Price: $175,900
Home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Otsego County is rich in culture and history, making it a unique cultural center in addition to its affordable housing options.
4. Allegany County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,881
Median Home Price: $97,900
Allegany County is noted for its outdoor activities available at Allegany State Park, providing ample opportunities for recreation.
5. Jefferson County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,851
Median Home Price: $181,000
Located near Lake Ontario, Jefferson County offers amenities such as farmers markets and the Watertown Zoo, enhancing its appeal as an economical residential area.
6. Chautauqua County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,846
Median Home Price: $119,300
Recognized for its grape production and wineries, Chautauqua County is also home to local markets and the National Comedy Center, making it culturally vibrant.
7. St. Lawrence County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,735
Median Home Price: $119,800
This county is popular for fishing and various outdoor activities, featuring numerous lakes and rivers, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Lewis County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,682
Median Home Price: $158,000
Offering a rural atmosphere, Lewis County invites residents to enjoy activities such as hiking and kayaking in its scenic agricultural fields.
9. Franklin County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,418
Median Home Price: $128,600
Franklin County is famous for its sections of the Adirondack Park, promoting small business development and a tight-knit community feeling.
10. Hamilton County
Median Property Tax Bill: $2,369
Median Home Price: $242,000
Renowned for outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting and waterfall exploration, Hamilton County provides a multitude of recreational options.
Living in New York’s Most Affordable Counties
Each county listed above showcases a unique blend of lifestyle choices from nature-centric to culturally diverse environments. With property tax bills significantly lower than the New York state average, these counties offer not only affordable housing but also a chance to enjoy the rich natural beauty and culture that New York State has to offer. Residents and prospective homeowners can find peace and affordability in areas that prioritize both community and recreational opportunities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Kiplinger: Cheapest Places to Live in New York
- Wikipedia: Property Tax
- Crain’s New York: Property Taxes Candidate Q&A
- Google Search: Property Taxes in New York
- National Mortgage Professional: Property Taxes Surge Analysis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tax
- Live Now Fox: Property Tax Hikes 2023 Rankings
- Google Scholar: Property Taxes in New York
- Business Insider: Expensive and Cheapest Property Taxes
- Google News: Property Tax Analysis 2025
- New York Times: NYC Land and Catskills Watershed
- Newsweek: America’s Property Tax Headache
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
