Idaho property taxes are very inexpensive compared to the rest of the country. The average homeowner in the Gem State spends $1,817 in property taxes each year, over $1,000 less than the national average.
How Idaho Property Tax Works
Idaho property taxes are the main source of funding for Idaho’s municipal services, including schools, parks, roads, and police enforcement. You can pay your taxes in two installments: the first is due on December 20 and the second by June 20.
Taxes are levied on the full market value of the property, which is evaluated annually by an assessor in each county. When evaluating the market value for a residence, the assessor often consults sales price data for recently sold properties that are similar in size, location, condition, and other distinguishing characteristics.
Once the assessed value is calculated, exemptions are applied. The homeowner exemption is Idaho’s greatest exemption. You can claim it on an owner-occupied principal dwelling for 50% of the house’s value plus one acre of land. The exemption is capped at $125,000.
For instance, if you own and live in a residence worth $150,000, the assessed value is $150,000. Your homeowner’s exemption is $75,000 (half the value of the home), so your tax rate is expected to be determined by a total value of $75,000.
Find out more: Publication 530 (2023), Tax Information for Homeowners | Internal Revenue Service
Idaho Property Tax Rates by County
Because local governments in Idaho can charge taxes at various levels, tax rates fluctuate across counties, cities, school districts, and other tax districts. Generally, tax rates in cities are greater than in rural areas.
These rates apply to the taxable value, not the market value. The effective tax rate is the median yearly property tax rate expressed as a percentage of the median house value. This is handy for comparing rates between counties and states. The table below displays the effective rate for each county in Idaho, in addition to county-specific median real estate tax payments and median home values.
| County | Median Home Value | Median Annual Property Tax Payment | Average Effective Property Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada County | $298,600 | $2,374 | 0.80% |
| Adams County | $228,500 | $1,151 | 0.50% |
| Bannock County | $167,300 | $1,657 | 0.99% |
| Bear Lake County | $154,500 | $911 | 0.59% |
| Benewah County | $177,500 | $1,153 | 0.65% |
| Bingham County | $168,200 | $1,150 | 0.68% |
| Blaine County | $458,100 | $2,226 | 0.49% |
| Boise County | $234,900 | $1,272 | 0.54% |
| Bonner County | $275,700 | $1,361 | 0.49% |
| Bonneville County | $202,100 | $1,659 | 0.82% |
| Boundary County | $235,000 | $1,275 | 0.54% |
| Butte County | $146,600 | $934 | 0.64% |
| Camas County | $164,900 | $826 | 0.50% |
| Canyon County | $211,600 | $1,808 | 0.85% |
| Caribou County | $151,100 | $1,056 | 0.70% |
| Cassia County | $168,400 | $899 | 0.53% |
| Clark County | $122,900 | $583 | 0.47% |
| Clearwater County | $167,700 | $1,221 | 0.73% |
| Custer County | $216,700 | $675 | 0.31% |
| Elmore County | $164,400 | $1,277 | 0.78% |
| Franklin County | $222,200 | $1,280 | 0.58% |
| Fremont County | $168,400 | $1,166 | 0.69% |
| Gem County | $198,700 | $1,222 | 0.61% |
| Gooding County | $156,500 | $854 | 0.55% |
| Idaho County | $197,200 | $853 | 0.43% |
| Jefferson County | $223,900 | $1,360 | 0.61% |
| Jerome County | $178,300 | $1,263 | 0.71% |
| Kootenai County | $294,100 | $1,880 | 0.64% |
| Latah County | $245,200 | $1,915 | 0.78% |
| Lemhi County | $192,100 | $984 | 0.51% |
| Lewis County | $150,000 | $1,006 | 0.67% |
| Lincoln County | $152,500 | $831 | 0.54% |
| Madison County | $229,800 | $1,439 | 0.63% |
| Minidoka County | $155,600 | $924 | 0.59% |
| Nez Perce County | $205,600 | $1,825 | 0.89% |
| Oneida County | $182,700 | $1,033 | 0.57% |
| Owyhee County | $160,900 | $901 | 0.56% |
| Payette County | $183,600 | $1,185 | 0.65% |
| Power County | $149,100 | $1,301 | 0.87% |
| Shoshone County | $133,000 | $1,088 | 0.82% |
| Teton County | $358,100 | $1,677 | 0.47% |
| Twin Falls County | $182,100 | $1,977 | 1.09% |
| Valley County | $306,900 | $1,363 | 0.44% |
| Washington County | $163,000 | $1,205 | 0.74% |
Source: SmartAsset
Ada County
Ada County has a population of about 511,000, making it Idaho’s most populous county. The effective property tax rate is 0.80%.
In urban regions like Boise, the average nominal tax rate equals 1.327%. The rural rate is slightly lower, at 0.893%. However, keep in mind that those figures are for Ada County’s net taxable value. If you are eligible for the homeowners’ exemption, it may be as little as half of your market value.
Canyon County
Canyon County is located in western Idaho, just west of Boise. The effective property tax rate equals 0.85%. This is calculated using the county’s typical property tax payment of $1,808 and the median home value of $211,600.
Kootenai County
Kootenai County is located in the Idaho panhandle and has an average effective property tax rate of 0.64%. This percentage compares favorably to the state and national norms, which are 0.64% and 0.99%, respectively. Furthermore, the county’s median home value is $294,100, with a median yearly tax payment of $1,880.
Keep in mind that the effective property tax rate includes any exemptions, such as the homeowner’s exemption, which can be as high as $125,000.
However, the homeowner’s exemption is limited to primary residences. So, if you want to buy a second house or a vacation home on Lake Coeur d’Alene, you won’t qualify and will have to pay higher rates.
Bonneville County
Bonneville County contains the city of Idaho Falls and is the most populous county in eastern Idaho. The typical Bonneville County homeowner pays $1,659 annually in property taxes. That’s less than the state average and over $1,100 below the national average.
Bannock County
Bannock County’s median effective property tax rate is 0.99%. At that rate, a $150,000 home would cost $1,485 in property taxes per year. However, the amount will vary substantially between rural regions and cities. Bannock County’s average municipal property tax rate is almost double the rural rate.
Where to Go for Idaho Property Tax Help
If you need further help with Idaho real estate taxes or general Idaho state tax information, visit XOA TAX Live Service. We will match you with a tax specialist who is familiar with your state. Without having to visit an office, you can have your taxes done by a professional tax specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the average effective property tax rate in Bonneville County, Idaho, and what would be the annual tax for a home valued at $160,000?
In Bonneville County, located in southeast Idaho’s Upper Snake River Valley, the average effective property tax rate is 0.77%. For a home valued at $160,000, this means you would typically pay about $1,202 annually in property taxes.
2. How do Twin Falls County property tax rates compare to the state average, and what is the impact on median property taxes?
In Twin Falls County, Idaho, property tax rates are just a notch higher than the state’s average, which stands at 0.82%. However, due to the county’s relatively affordable median home values, the actual median property taxes paid by homeowners are lower, amounting to about $1,226. This means that even though the tax rate itself surpasses the state benchmark, the overall financial burden on property owners is mitigated by the cost of homes in the area.
3. What is the average total tax rate in Bingham County, Idaho?
Bingham County, situated in southeastern Idaho and ranking as the state’s 12th largest, has an average total tax rate of 1.6%.
4. What are some special exemptions available for certain groups in Idaho regarding property taxes?
In Idaho, several property tax exemptions are specifically designed to assist particular groups, provided they meet certain income criteria. These exemptions cover a broad spectrum of individuals, such as:
- Widows and widowers
- Homeowners who are visually impaired
- Minors who have lost their parents
- Former prisoners of war
- Senior citizens aged 65 and above
These exemptions aim to provide financial relief and support to those who may face greater economic challenges.
5. How does Nez Perce County rank in terms of property tax rates and median property tax payments in Idaho?
Nez Perce County, situated in the north-central region of Idaho, stands out for its property tax figures. It holds the position of having the fourth-highest average effective property tax rate in the state, at 0.92%. Additionally, it ranks third statewide when it comes to median property tax payments, with residents typically paying $1,551 annually. These rankings highlight its relative standing in comparison to other counties in Idaho.
6. What additional fees might Idaho property owners encounter beyond the base city/county tax rate?
Idaho property owners should be mindful of several additional fees beyond the standard city or county tax rate. These can include special assessments and various district levies. Here’s a breakdown of the possible extra costs:
- Bond Levies: These fees are often implemented to fund local infrastructure projects, such as school improvements or public safety enhancements.
- Supplemental Levies: These are typically approved by voters and can be used for additional funding needs in areas like education or emergency services.
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Tax: In some areas, there may be an EMS tax to support local emergency medical response teams.
- Local Improvement Districts (LID): If there’s ongoing infrastructure development in a specific area, property owners might contribute through LID charges.
Awareness of these potential fees can help property owners budget more effectively, avoiding any surprises during tax season. Always check with local tax authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
7. How much did the Idaho taxing district collect in property taxes in 2015, and what were the percentage shares for municipal governments, county government, and school districts?
In 2015, the Idaho taxing district amassed $1.6 billion through property taxes. Of this total, municipal governments received approximately 26.7%, while the county government was allocated around 26.4%. School districts claimed the largest portion, securing about 30.1% of the funds.
8. What is the property tax rate in Bannock County, Idaho, and how does it vary between urban and rural areas?
Bannock County’s median effective property tax rate is 0.99%. At that rate, a $150,000 home would cost $1,485 in property taxes per year. However, the amount varies substantially between rural regions and cities. Bannock County’s average municipal property tax rate is almost double the rural rate.
To provide more context, Bannock County is located in the southeastern region of Idaho. It ranks 3rd in terms of the highest property taxes in the state, with a tax rate of 0.92%. For a homeowner with a home valued at $100,000, this rate would translate to $1,840 annually in property taxes. However, the actual tax amount can vary greatly depending on the property’s location. In urban areas, property tax rates are typically about twice as high as those in rural locations.
This disparity highlights the importance of considering both property value and geographic location when calculating potential tax liabilities in Bannock County. Understanding these nuances can help homeowners and prospective buyers make more informed decisions.
9. How do property tax rates vary by county in Idaho?
Because local governments in Idaho can charge taxes at various levels, tax rates fluctuate across counties, cities, school districts, and other tax districts. Generally, tax rates in cities are greater than in rural areas. These rates apply to the taxable value, not the market value. The effective tax rate is the median yearly property tax rate expressed as a percentage of the median house value. This is handy for comparing rates between counties and states.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of property tax variations by county, providing insights into how these rates impact Idaho homeowners. Let’s explore some key counties:
| County | Median Home Value | Median Annual Property Tax Payment | Average Effective Property Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada County | $298,600 | $2,374 | 0.80% |
This detailed overview emphasizes both the numerical data and the contextual factors influencing property tax rates in Idaho, providing a holistic understanding for homeowners and potential buyers.
10. What is the effective tax rate in Bonner County, Idaho, and how does it compare to the median home value?
Bonner County, nestled in the northern part of Idaho, is known for its scenic landscapes and favorable property tax rates. With an effective tax rate of just 0.49%, it ranks among the lowest in the state. This rate is significantly below the national average, offering homeowners a tangible financial advantage.
To put this into perspective, consider the median home value in Bonner County, which is approximately $275,700. At this value, the property taxes would be around $1,361 annually. This amount underscores the economic benefits of living in an area with such a competitive tax rate.
For those exploring real estate opportunities, Bonner County stands out as an attractive option, blending affordability with natural beauty.
11. Who is eligible for the homeowner’s exemption in Idaho?
Once the assessed value is calculated, exemptions are applied. The homeowner exemption is Idaho’s greatest exemption. You can claim it on an owner-occupied principal dwelling for 50% of the house’s value plus one acre of land. The exemption is capped at $125,000.
To qualify for this exemption, you must live in the property you have purchased as your primary residence. This means it should be your principal home where you reside. However, if you are purchasing real estate as an investment and plan to have tenants living there, this homeowner’s exemption is not available to you. Essentially, the exemption is designed for those who occupy and use the property as their home, not for properties held for investment purposes.
12. How is the full market value of a property determined in Idaho for tax purposes?
Taxes are levied on the full market value of the property, which is evaluated annually by an assessor in each county. When evaluating the market value for a residence, the assessor often consults sales price data for recently sold properties that are similar in size, location, condition, and other distinguishing characteristics.
Generally speaking, the county assessor uses comparative data from recently sold homes to come up with your home’s market value. This method ensures that the evaluation reflects current market trends and provides a fair assessment aligned with the local real estate market.
By analyzing recent sales of comparable properties, assessors can determine a market value that accurately represents what your home might sell for under normal conditions. This comprehensive approach combines both specific property characteristics and broader market data to ensure accuracy and fairness in property tax assessments.
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