What is the Property Tax Rate in Dallas County?

Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Dallas County is approximately 1.74% of its estimated value. This is higher than the national average of 0.90%.

For example, with a 1.74% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $390,000 home might pay around $6,786 in annual property taxes.

An effective property tax rate represents the actual percentage of a property’s market value that a homeowner pays in taxes, considering the assessed value and any exemptions or deductions.

Note: HomeLight’s Dallas County property tax calculator provides a ballpark estimate for a primary residence using average rates. Your tax can vary based on location and the specific taxing districts (e.g., schools, fire districts, and libraries) that apply to your parcel. For a precise number, contact Dallas County’s tax office.

Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Dallas County?

Homeowners in Dallas County may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. Common exemptions include a homestead exemption, disability exemption, or exemptions for veterans or their surviving spouses. Active duty military and service members can also qualify for property tax exemptions.

These exemptions can vary based on eligibility, so consult the Dallas Central Appraisal District website for further details on how you can apply and what is required.

When Are Dallas County Property Taxes Due?

Dallas County property taxes are billed annually and due and payable on October 1. They are considered delinquent if not paid on or before January 31. State law requires that penalties and interest be charged on taxes paid after January 31.

What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Dallas County?

Local property taxes in Dallas County pay for important local services, including:

Public schools
Police, fire, and EMS services
Roads, streets, and traffic signals
Parks, libraries, and community centers
City and county government operations
Infrastructure like water, sewer, and trash services
Repayment of local bond projects (such as transit and school improvements)

What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Dallas County?

How Much House Can You Afford?

Affordability in Dallas County depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $74,350 in Dallas County, a buyer might afford a home in the $240,000–$246,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Dallas County median home price exceeding $390,000, many buyers need dual incomes or additional savings to qualify.

Use HomeLight’s Home Affordability Calculator to estimate your budget based on your income, debts, and current rates.

What Down Payment Will You Need in Dallas County?

According to Norada Real Estate Investments, the average down payment on a house in Dallas County is 20%. However, down payment amounts vary widely depending on loan type and credit score. While 20% used to be the expected standard, many buyers put down between 5% and 15%, with 3% options available for FHA and some conventional first-time buyer loans.

For a $390,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:

3% down = $11,700
5% down = $19,500
10% down = $39,000
15% down = $58,500
20% down = $78,000

Try HomeLight’s Down Payment Calculator to see how different down payments affect your monthly payment and loan size.

How Much Are Closing Costs in Dallas County?

Buyers in Dallas County can expect to pay about 2% to 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These may include:

Loan origination and underwriting fees
Title insurance and escrow fees
Appraisal and inspection costs
Prepaid property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
Filing and recording fees

For a $390,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $7,800 to $19,500. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Dallas County home purchase price.

How To Find a Trusted Dallas County Real Estate Agent

An experienced Dallas County agent can help you understand local tax rates, school districts, and development trends — and guide you toward neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.

HomeLight’s free Agent Match tool uses data from over 27 million transactions and thousands of verified reviews to match you with top Dallas County agents based on real performance, not paid ads.

Tell us a little about your buying plans and get matched today with no obligation.

Additional resources when searching for a trusted buyer’s agent in Dallas County:

Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”

If you’re buying a new home in Dallas County but need to sell your current property first, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program can simplify the entire process. This modern solution helps you unlock equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on your new home — and only move once. Watch the short video below to see how it works.