What is the Property Tax Rate in Georgia?
Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Georgia is approximately 0.83% of its estimated value. This is lower than the national average of 0.90%.
For example, with a 0.83% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $395,000 home might pay around $3,278 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 Georgia 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 the Georgia Tax Center.
Step One: Consult with a Trusted Buyer's Agent
Tell us a little bit about your plans (where you’re looking to buy and when you want to make a purchase), and we’ll connect you with top-rated buyer’s agents in your area. It takes only a few minutes, and it’s free.
Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Georgia?
Homeowners in Georgia may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. These are offered through the Georgia Tax Center, depending on your location. Common exemptions include:
- Standard Homestead Exemption: Reduces your primary home’s assessed value (by about $2,000 statewide).
- Senior Citizen Exemptions: If homeowners are 62 or over 65 and qualify, they can receive additional homestead or school tax exemptions.
- Disabled Veterans Exemption: Significant reduction for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability.
- Disabled (Permanently Disabled) Exemption: If they qualify, the taxable value of homeowners who are totally and permanently disabled can be reduced.
- Surviving Spouse of Disabled Veteran / Peace Officer / Firefighter Exemptions: Relief for unremarried surviving spouses of veterans or first responders killed in the line of duty.
When Are Georgia Property Taxes Due?
Property taxes in Georgia are billed annually and due by December 20.
What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Georgia?
Local property taxes in Georgia 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)
Yes, You Can Buy Before You Sell. Why Move Twice?
Through our Buy Before You Sell program, HomeLight can help you unlock a portion of your equity upfront to put toward your next home. You can then make a strong offer on your next home with no home sale contingency.
What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Georgia?
How Much House Can You Afford?
Affordability in Georgia depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $74,600 in the [state nickname], a buyer might afford a home in the $200,000–$230,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Georgia median home price coming in at $395,000, 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 Georgia?
According to This Old House, the average down payment on a house in Georgia is 15%. 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 $395,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:
- 3% down = $11,850
- 5% down = $19,750
- 10% down = $39,500
- 15% down = $59,250
- 20% down = $79,000
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 Georgia?
Buyers in Georgia 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 $395,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $7,900 to $19,750. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Georgia home purchase price.
How To Find a Trusted Georgia Real Estate Agent
An experienced Georgia 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 Georgia agents based on proven performance. 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 Georgia:
Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”
If you’re buying a new home in Georgia 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.