What is the Property Tax Rate in Texas?
Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Texas is approximately 1.36% of its estimated value. This is higher than the national average of 0.90%.
For example, with a 1.36% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $331,000 home might pay around $4,502 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.
It’s important to note that Texas does not have a statewide property tax rate. However, local cities and counties in Texas can charge property taxes. Our calculator uses publicly available data to determine an estimated total property tax you could be expected to pay in the Lone Star State.
Note: HomeLight’s Texas 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.
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 Texas?
As Texas does not have a statewide property tax, there is no standard for property exemptions, as they can vary by municipality. Common exemptions include a general homestead exemption, exemptions for disabled individuals or veterans, and senior citizen exemptions.
When Are Texas Property Taxes Due?
Property tax due dates will vary by municipality, but October 1 is a common date (as in Dallas, for example). Consult your local county or city regulations to get a better idea of when property taxes might be due.
What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Texas?
Local property taxes in Texas 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 Texas?
How Much House Can You Afford?
Affordability in Texas depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $75,780 in the Lone Star State, a buyer might afford a home in the $250,000-$255,000 range using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Texas median home price hovering at $331,000, 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 Texas?
According to Visual Capitalist, the average down payment on a house in Texas is 12.2%. 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 $331,000 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:
- 3% down = $9,930
- 5% down = $16,550
- 10% down = $33,100
- 15% down = $49,650
- 20% down = $66,200
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 Texas?
Buyers in Texas 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 $331,000 home, that means estimated closing costs of $6,620 to $16,550. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Texas home purchase price.
How To Find a Trusted Texas Real Estate Agent
An experienced Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas:
- How to pick a buyer’s agent
- How to find a trusted Realtor in another state
- Why hire a buyer’s agent
- How much are Realtor fees?
- Questions to ask a buyer’s agent
Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”
If you’re buying a new home in Texas 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.