Updated: October 8, 2024
Understanding Oregon Property Taxes
Oregon property taxes are governed by two key laws established in the 1990s: Measures 5 and 50. Together, these measures limit both the overall effective tax rate that can be imposed on any particular property and the annual increase in assessed values used to calculate taxes.
Due to these constraints, Oregon’s property taxes are slightly below the national average of 0.99%, with an average effective property tax rate of 0.82%. Homeowners in Oregon also benefit from stability in their tax payments from year to year.
How Oregon Property Taxes Are Calculated
In Oregon, local assessors appraise properties annually to determine their fair market value. However, property taxes are not solely based on market value. Instead, taxes are applied to the assessed value or the market value, whichever is lower.
The Maximum Assessed Value (MAV) is a crucial component, which can only increase by 3% per year if it is less than the market value—a common scenario. This means that even as home prices rise, property taxes remain relatively consistent.
If the market value falls below the MAV, the MAV may remain constant or increase by less than 3%. For example, if both the market value and MAV are $100,000 and the market value increases by 2%, both values become $102,000 the next year. Conversely, if the market value increases by 10%, the MAV increases by only 3% to $103,000, while the market value rises to $110,000.
For more detailed information, refer to the IRS Publication 530: Tax Information for Homeowners.
Oregon Property Tax Rates by County
Oregon limits both the taxable value and the tax rates themselves. For any single property, total school district taxes cannot exceed $5 per $1,000 of market value, and total general government taxes cannot exceed $10 per $1,000 of market value. These limits do not apply to bond levies, which require voter approval.
Effectively, Oregon’s property tax rates are limited to 1.5% (or $15 per $1,000 of property value), plus any bond levies. If a property’s tax rates exceed this amount, they are reduced or “compressed” until they fall below the limits. If a property’s taxes are near this limit, they cannot be increased, even if overall taxes rise.
Property Tax Rates by County
Below is a table detailing the property tax rates across Oregon’s counties:
| County | Median Home Value | Median Annual Property Tax Payment | Average Effective Property Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baker County | $180,600 | $1,750 | 0.97% |
| Benton County | $357,900 | $4,351 | 1.22% |
| Clackamas County | $421,100 | $4,590 | 1.09% |
| Clatsop County | $309,500 | $2,558 | 0.83% |
| Columbia County | $282,600 | $2,540 | 0.90% |
| Coos County | $220,400 | $1,812 | 0.82% |
| Crook County | $265,100 | $2,147 | 0.81% |
| Curry County | $285,600 | $1,689 | 0.59% |
| Deschutes County | $389,300 | $3,390 | 0.87% |
| Douglas County | $210,800 | $1,667 | 0.79% |
| Gilliam County | $112,900 | $1,347 | 1.19% |
| Grant County | $153,900 | $1,590 | 1.03% |
| Harney County | $140,300 | $1,582 | 1.13% |
| Hood River County | $411,600 | $2,745 | 0.67% |
| Jackson County | $294,500 | $2,844 | 0.97% |
| Jefferson County | $242,200 | $2,226 | 0.92% |
| Josephine County | $281,500 | $1,850 | 0.66% |
| Klamath County | $188,700 | $1,567 | 0.83% |
| Lake County | $161,000 | $1,504 | 0.93% |
| Lane County | $280,000 | $3,106 | 1.11% |
| Lincoln County | $265,800 | $2,562 | 0.96% |
| Linn County | $240,200 | $2,904 | 1.21% |
| Malheur County | $150,400 | $1,446 | 0.96% |
| Marion County | $270,300 | $3,115 | 1.15% |
| Morrow County | $160,600 | $1,667 | 1.04% |
| Multnomah County | $410,800 | $4,575 | 1.11% |
| Polk County | $290,100 | $3,253 | 1.12% |
| Sherman County | $159,300 | $1,461 | 0.92% |
| Tillamook County | $276,700 | $1,887 | 0.68% |
| Umatilla County | $183,300 | $2,327 | 1.27% |
| Union County | $198,200 | $1,787 | 0.90% |
| Wallowa County | $266,800 | $1,697 | 0.64% |
| Wasco County | $230,800 | $2,452 | 1.06% |
| Washington County | $413,500 | $4,465 | 1.08% |
| Wheeler County | $178,700 | $1,471 | 0.82% |
| Yamhill County | $320,900 | $3,159 | 0.98% |
Source: SmartAsset
County-by-County Property Tax Analysis
Multnomah County
Multnomah County, which encompasses most of Portland, has property taxes close to the state average. The county’s average effective tax rate is 1.11%. Applying this rate to the median home value of $410,800 results in an annual property tax obligation of approximately $4,575.
Washington County
Washington County’s effective tax rates are similar to those of neighboring Multnomah County. With an average effective tax rate of 1.08%, a home valued at the median of $413,500 would incur annual taxes of about $4,465.
Clackamas County
Clackamas County stretches from the southern Portland neighborhoods to Mount Hood and the Cascade Mountains. The county is predominantly suburban and rural, with Lake Oswego as its largest city. Homeowners in Clackamas County pay the highest median annual property tax in the state, at $4,590, with an average effective tax rate of 1.09%.
Lane County
Located in western Oregon, Lane County is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Willamette National Forest to the east. Eugene, home to the University of Oregon, hosts about half of the county’s population. The median home value in Lane County is $280,000, with an average effective tax rate of 1.11%, resulting in a median annual property tax bill of $3,106.
Need Assistance with Oregon Property Taxes?
Accurately estimating your property taxes is crucial to avoid overpaying or underpaying. Understanding deductions, eligibility, and timelines can be complex.
If you need further assistance with your Oregon property taxes or general state tax information, consider reaching out to XOA TAX Live Service. Our tax specialists are familiar with Oregon tax laws and can help you navigate your tax obligations without the need for an in-person visit.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the median property tax paid by homeowners in Yamhill County, and how does it compare to Multnomah County?
Homeowners in Yamhill County pay a median property tax of $3,159 annually. Compared to Multnomah County—the most densely populated area in Oregon—Yamhill County’s property taxes are approximately $1,400 lower per year. This difference makes Yamhill County’s effective property tax rates more economical than those in other parts of the Portland metro area.
2. How does Douglas County’s property tax rate compare to other populous counties in Oregon?
Understanding Douglas County’s Property Tax Rate in Oregon
Douglas County, the ninth most populous in Oregon, has a notably low property tax rate. With an effective rate of 0.79%, it ranks as the seventh lowest in the state. While other major counties often have higher rates, Douglas County offers a more affordable option, making it appealing to residents and prospective homeowners.
3. Which county in Oregon has the second-highest average effective property tax rate, and what is it?
Linn County has the second-highest average effective property tax rate in Oregon, standing at 1.21%. For a home valued at the county median of $240,200, this rate results in an annual tax bill of approximately $2,904.
4. How do property tax rates in Jackson County compare to other counties in Oregon?
Jackson County’s Property Tax Rates
Jackson County, located near the California border in Southern Oregon, has an average effective property tax rate of 0.97%, which is relatively moderate compared to other counties in the state. It ranks as the 16th-highest in Oregon, placing it in the lower half in terms of property tax burden.
5. How are property taxes calculated in other states like California, Texas, Florida, and New York?
Understanding Property Tax Calculations in Various States
- California: Property taxes are limited to 1% of the assessed value (based on purchase price) plus local voter-approved charges. Annual increases in assessed value are capped at 2% unless there’s a change in ownership.
- Texas: Without a state income tax, Texas relies heavily on property taxes. Local governments assess property values annually, and tax rates vary significantly across different areas.
- Florida: Florida caps annual assessment value increases at 3% or the change in the CPI, whichever is lower, under the “Save Our Homes” amendment, protecting residents from sudden spikes.
- New York: Property tax rates vary greatly due to different school district funding requirements. Properties are assessed at market value, and municipalities apply tax rates accordingly. Programs like the STAR program offer tax relief.
6. How does Lane County’s property tax rate compare to the state median?
Lane County’s average effective tax rate is 1.11%, slightly higher than the state average of 0.82%. However, due to a lower median home value of $280,000 compared to the state median of $422,700, residents enjoy a more affordable property tax scenario.
7. How do property taxes in Multnomah County compare to the state average?
Multnomah County’s average effective tax rate is 1.11%, close to the state average. On a median home value of $410,800, the annual property tax is approximately $4,575, making it typical compared to other areas in Oregon.
8. What is the effective property tax rate in Marion County, and how does it rank in the state?
Marion County has an effective property tax rate of 1.15%, ranking as the sixth-highest in Oregon. For a median home value of $270,300, the average annual property tax payment is about $3,115.
Conclusion
Oregon’s property tax system, governed by Measures 5 and 50, provides stability and predictability for homeowners. Understanding how assessed values and effective tax rates work enables residents to manage their property tax obligations effectively. Whether you’re a current homeowner or considering a move to Oregon, staying informed about local tax rates and seeking professional assistance when needed can help you make the best financial decisions.
Future Outlook
As Oregon continues to grow, future ballot measures or legislative changes could affect property taxes. Staying informed about potential changes can help homeowners anticipate and prepare for shifts in their tax obligations. Keeping in touch with tax professionals and local government updates is advisable for staying ahead.
anywhere 
anytime