For real estate agents and homeowners in Columbus, Ohio, understanding the nuances of property tax is crucial. Whether you’re advising a first-time buyer or managing client expectations, a clear grasp of how property taxes are calculated, when they’re due, and where the money goes is essential for success in the Columbus real estate market. This guide breaks down the key aspects of the 2025 Columbus property tax landscape to keep you and your clients informed.
Columbus Property Taxes in 2025
Property taxes are a cornerstone of local government funding, and in Columbus, they play a vital role in supporting community services. For 2025, homeowners will likely see tax bills influenced by the most recent property valuations, making it more important than ever to understand the process.
How are property taxes in Columbus calculated?
Understanding the Columbus, Ohio property tax calculation is straightforward. The system rests on two key components: your property’s assessed value and the local tax rate.
First, the Franklin County Auditor determines the fair market value of your property. Your assessed value is then set at 35% of this market value. For example, a home with a market value of $300,000 would have an assessed value of $105,000.
Next, this assessed value is multiplied by the specific tax rate for your taxing district. This rate is a combination of levies from various local entities, including school districts, city and county governments, and local libraries. The rate is typically expressed in “mills,” where one mill equals $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value.
Important dates for Columbus property taxes
Mark your calendars. In Franklin County, property taxes are paid in two installments. Due dates are:
- First Half: January 31
- Second Half: June 20
Missing these deadlines can result in penalties and interest, so it’s critical to ensure timely payment. Property owners can make payments online, by mail, or in person.
Where do my Columbus property taxes go?
A common question from clients is, “Where does all that money go?” The answer is that property taxes in Columbus, Ohio, are the lifeblood of essential local services. The vast majority—often over 60%—of your property tax in Columbus, Ohio goes directly to funding local school districts. The remainder is distributed to support:
- City services (police, fire, road maintenance)
- County services and agencies
- Public libraries
- Metro Parks
- Other voter-approved community initiatives
This funding structure means that property taxes directly contribute to the quality of life and resources available to residents.
What are the current Columbus property tax rates?
The Columbus, Ohio property tax rate varies depending on the specific taxing district a property is located in. Because rates are a combination of city, county, school district, and other local levies, two homes in Columbus could have different total tax rates if they fall within different school districts. In general, the standard property tax rates Columbus residents should be aware of are:
- City of Columbus Rate: 3.14
- Franklin County Rate: 20.37
- State Rate: 0.32
- Columbus Library Rate: 4.3
- Local School Rate: 87.76
The effective tax rate, which is the amount a homeowner pays as a percentage of their home’s market value, provides a clearer picture. The total millage rate for residents within the City of Columbus’ jurisdiction sits at 115.89 mills.
For the most detailed and up-to-date information on specific tax rates for 2025, homeowners and agents should consult the Franklin County Auditor and the official publication of rates.
Will property taxes in Columbus rise this year?
For many homeowners in Franklin County, the 2025 tax bill may reflect an increase. This is largely due to the recent triennial update of property values conducted by the county auditor, which saw significant increases in the market value of many homes to align with the current Columbus real estate market.
It’s important to remember that a rise in property value does not automatically mean a proportionally equal rise in taxes, thanks to Ohio’s tax reduction factors. However, with higher valuations as the starting point for calculations, an increase in the total tax amount is likely for many. This has been a significant topic of discussion across the state, with ongoing debates about potential legislative solutions.
Nearby cities and their property tax rates
To give clients a comprehensive view of the region, it’s helpful to compare the property tax rates in Columbus with those in surrounding communities. For comparison, here are the approximate median effective property tax mill rates for several nearby cities and villages:
- Reynoldsberg: 0.70
- Hilliard: 1.60
- Grove City: 3.50
- Worthington: 5.00
- Bexley: 5.45
- Upper Arlington: 5.89
- Westerville: 23.45
As the data shows, the property taxes in Columbus, Ohio are often competitive when compared to its suburban neighbors, a key selling point for many buyers.
Turn tax knowledge into a competitive edge
For real estate professionals in Central Ohio, being a knowledgeable resource on Columbus property taxes is a significant value-add for clients. By understanding how taxes are calculated, key dates, and the factors influencing the 2025 rates, you can provide confident, accurate guidance. As a result, this expertise not only helps in navigating transactions but also builds lasting trust with those you serve in the dynamic Columbus real estate scene.
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FAQ
Property taxes are calculated by multiplying your home’s assessed value, which is 35% of its market value (per state legislation), by the total tax rate for your specific location.
Property taxes are due in two installments, with the first half deadline on January 31st and the second half on June 20th.
The vast majority of your property taxes go directly to funding local school districts, with the rest supporting city services, libraries, and parks.
Your tax bill may increase because of the recent county-wide update that raised the official market value of many homes.
The total millage rate for residents within the City of Columbus’s jurisdiction is 115.89 mills, which includes city, county, school, and library levies.
