As a real estate agent in Austin, Texas, it’s important to know the cost of property taxes. While it’s not something most clients think about when requesting showings or visiting open houses, knowing the property tax rates in your area can help your clients make more informed decisions.
Setting your client up for success is one way you can continue to generate more leads and nurture client relationships even after closing. So, whether you’re representing a buyer, seller, or just want more information, we have all you need to know about the property tax rates in Austin, TX for 2025.
Property tax rates in Austin, TX for the 2025-2026 fiscal year
Austin is a great city with plenty of opportunities for work, education, and entertainment. It’s also the capital of Texas, which makes it a city rich in history and culture. The neighborhoods range from family-friendly suburbs to bustling urban areas filled with young professionals.
Unfortunately, this also means that the cost of living in Austin will be significantly higher than in smaller cities throughout central Texas. A large portion of this is due to the property tax rates. The Travis County property tax rate in Austin, Texas currently sits at a total millage rate of 0.524017.
Calculating Austin’s property taxes
In Austin, the 2025-2026 fiscal year proposes property tax rate at $.524017—around 52.40 cents—per $100 in Travis County. This is a 9.7% increase from the 2024-2025 property tax rate of $0.477600 per $100.
The median home sold price in Austin, Texas is $530,000, so the average homeowner can expect to spend about $2,777.29 on property taxes.
Calculating the neighboring county’s property tax rate
In Williamson County, adjacent to Travis County, the tax rate for 2025-2026 is $0.355670—around 35.6 cents—per $100. This rate is a increase from 2024-2025 county property tax, which was $0.333116—about 33.3 cents—per $100.
The median home value in Williamson County is $409,895. Including any exemptions, the average homeowner can expect to pay around $1,365.42 in property taxes for the county.
Comparatively, Travis County has a current county millage rate of 0.375845, so if that same home was taxed in Travis County, the homeowner could expect to pay around $1,540.57 in property taxes based on the home sale price of $409,895.
Will property tax rates rise next year?
Texas lawmakers are working hard to limit your future property tax burden. The Texas House recently passed Senate Bill 10 to tighten local spending. Currently, cities and counties can increase tax revenue by 3.5% annually. This new legislation would slash that limit to just 1% per year.
Local governments must receive voter approval to exceed this strict new cap. However, the House added a key exemption for essential public safety costs. This change helps cities maintain police and fire services without hitting the ceiling.
What this means for you:
- Strict Revenue Caps: Most cities and counties face a new 1% growth limit.
- Voter Control: You gain more power to vote on significant tax increases.
- Public Safety Focus: Police and fire budgets remain protected under the new rules.
- Universal Impact: These limits now apply to every Texas city and county.
Your total bill depends on both tax rates and rising home values. While rates may drop, your final payment stays tied to your local appraisal. Monitor your next assessment to see how these state changes impact your wallet.
Tax rates in surrounding areas
Maybe you want to move to Austin, but the tax rates and total property costs are swaying your decision. Don’t worry; you can always choose an area close to Austin.
For reference, here are some of tax millage rates for areas near Austin, Texas:
- Cedar Park: 0.360000
- Jonestown: 0.398100
- Sunset Valley: 1.27%
- Lago Vista: 0.420000
- Mustang Ridge: 0.270775
- Round Rock: 0.372000
- Pflugerville: 0.535000
- Manor: 0.853700
These aren’t all the neighboring cities to Austin, but just a few to help you get an estimate of what they would be like—the closer you are to the city, the higher the property taxes. To better assess your property taxes in Austin, please consult the appraisal district for your county.
What does property tax revenue fund in Austin?
The property tax in Texas is a local tax, assessed and collected locally and spent locally. More than 3,700 local governments in Texas—school districts, cities, counties, and other special districts—collect and spend this money.
The majority of community services are paid for through local property taxes in Travis County. These local assessments do not benefit the state government. Your local property taxes go toward funding various essential programs, including:
- Public schools (Austin ISD)
- City streets
- County roads
- Police departments
- Fire protection
As a property owner in Austin, Texas, you may fall under certain homestead exemptions, but you will want to check with your county appraisal district. Additionally, you can attend tax rate public hearings if you’re involved in your local government.
Important tax information to know when moving to Austin, TX
If you’re moving to Austin, TX, you’ll need to know some vital tax information and dates. Listed below are just a few.
- First, Texas has no state tax and a low sales tax. This helps keep the cost of living in Austin, TX, low despite the relatively high property tax rates.
- On the first of the new year, locals will determine the market value of your property. By January 31, your property taxes must be paid to avoid extra fines.
- The last day of February will be the deadline for submitting a payment installation plan request.
- The rest of the dates only pertain if you are enrolled in a payment plan or protesting a property tax increase.
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This blog provides general information based on credible sources. Property tax rates and information are subject to change. For personalized advice, please consult a tax professional or local authority.
FAQ
What is the current property tax rate in Austin, Texas?
Austin’s current property tax rate for the 2025-2026 fiscal year is $.524017—around 52.40 cents—per $100.
How much can property tax rates increase in Austin in a single year without voter approval?
Due to Senate Bill 10, local governments in the state of Texas cannot raise revenue collection by more than 1% annually without voter approval. This is a change from the 2020 bill where the limit was set at 3.5%.
What is the typical property tax amount a homeowner in Travis County might expect to pay?
With a 2025-2026 county millage rate of 0.375845, the average homeowner in Travis County can expect to pay around $1,973.19 in property taxes based on the median home sale price of $525,000.
Where do the property tax revenues in Austin go?
Property tax revenues in Austin primarily fund local services such as public schools, city streets, and emergency services.
What is an important deadline for property tax payments in Austin?
Property taxes in Austin must be paid by January 31st to avoid incurring extra fines.
