Pennsylvania Commonwealth Property Taxes
As a commonwealth, Pennsylvania’s property taxes operate under a unique system compared to other states, with tax structures that are primarily administered at the local level rather than the state level. Property taxes are levied by three local entities:
- Counties
- Municipalities (cities, boroughs, and townships)
- School districts
Each of these entities sets its own millage rate (tax rate), so property owners receive tax bills from multiple local authorities. This decentralized model creates variation in tax burdens across the commonwealth, so property owners should consult their local tax authorities for information about rates, assessment practices, and available exemptions in their area.
Property Tax Calculator
Property tax rates in Pennsylvania are referred to as millage rates, and they are figured in mills. One mill is equal to 1/1,000 of a dollar. When calculating taxes, the millage’s decimal equivalent is used by multiplying the millage by .001.
Example: A property in Example Municipality has a current municipal millage of 5 and an assessed value of $150,000. The municipal taxes for that property would be calculated as follows:
5 mills x .001 = .005
.005 x assessed value of $150,000
= $750 in municipal taxes
To begin using the property tax calculator, first select the County, then enter an assessed value. Once a municipality is selected, the calculator will apply the local millage rates to generate a yearly tax estimate.*
*ROCK Commercial Real Estate, LLC has provided these tax calculators for estimation purposes only and only accounts for the building valuation of a property. Some municipalities may include an additional millage rate for special services such as fire protection or public library funding. You should conduct a careful, independent investigation of the property taxes to determine suitability of the property for your needs. While this information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, we can make no guarantee, warranty, or representation about it. Please refer to the Tax Collector or Municipal Office for rates on a specific property.
Pennsylvania Department of Revenue
List of Municipalities
Tax Jurisdiction Websites for South Central PA Counties
York County Property & Tax Assessment
Adams County Assessment and Appraising
Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau
Lebanon County Treasurer’s Office
Franklin County Tax Assessment
Dauphin County Real Estate Taxes