What is the Property Tax Rate in Pennsylvania?

Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Pennsylvania is approximately 1.41% of its estimated value. This is higher than the national average of 0.90%.

For example, with a 1.41% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $325,000 home might pay around $4,582 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.

Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Pennsylvania?

Homeowners in Pennsylvania may qualify for several property tax exemptions that can lower their tax bill. These are offered through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, depending on your location. Common exemptions include:

Homestead Exemption – Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence for property tax purposes.
Senior Citizen Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program—This program offers rebates on property taxes or rent paid by eligible seniors, widows/widowers, and people with disabilities.
Disabled Veterans Exemption – Provides a full exemption from property taxes for qualifying disabled veterans.
Exemption for Persons with Disabilities – Offers tax relief for certain permanently disabled individuals who meet income and residency requirements.

If you’re buying a home in Pennsylvania, note that property tax exemptions do not automatically transfer from the previous owner. After the home changes hands, you’ll need to reapply based on your own eligibility.

When Are Pennsylvania Property Taxes Due?

Property taxes in Pennsylvania are billed annually:

May 31 or June 30

Payments received after the deadlines are considered delinquent and may incur a 00% penalty. If either due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline is extended to the next business day.

What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Pennsylvania?

Local property taxes in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?

How Much House Can You Afford?

Affordability in Pennsylvania depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $76,081 in the Keystone State, a buyer might afford a home in the $250,000–$260,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Pennsylvania median home price coming in at $325,000, 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 Pennsylvania?

According to Nerdwallet, the average down payment on a house in Pennsylvania is 14%. 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 $320,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:

3% down = $9,600
5% down = $16,000
10% down = $32,000
15% down = $48,000
20% down = $64,000

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 Pennsylvania?

Buyers in Pennsylvania 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 $325,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $6,500 to $16,250. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Pennsylvania home purchase price.

How To Find a Trusted Pennsylvania Real Estate Agent

An experienced Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania:

Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”

If you’re buying a new home in Pennsylvania 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.