18 U.S. Counties Where Rising Property Taxes Are Driving Residents Away

Are you thinking about buying a house? Property taxes are a crucial factor to weigh, and in some U.S. counties the tax burden is high enough that residents consider relocating to lower-tax areas. Below are 18 counties known for elevated property tax rates and the local trends and impacts associated with them. If you want to reduce your annual housing costs, these counties are worth reviewing before you buy.

Bergen County, New Jersey

Bergen County often posts effective property tax rates above 3.0%. Known for strong schools and diverse communities, it attracts families but also drives some residents away. Studies and local reporting show net outmigration, with high taxes commonly cited as a key reason homeowners choose to leave.

Essex County, New Jersey

Home to Newark and several historic towns, Essex County offers a mix of urban and suburban living. Effective tax rates well above 3.0% have coincided with recent population declines, suggesting some residents are leaving in search of more affordable locales.

Union County, New Jersey

Union County combines residential neighborhoods with commercial centers and convenient transit access. With effective property tax rates exceeding 3.0%, the county faces retention challenges—especially among young families confronting the rising cost of living.

Nassau County, New York (Long Island)

Long Island offers attractive beaches and affluent communities, but effective property tax rates around 3.0% have affected property value trends. Higher taxes combined with other costs have contributed to slower growth in home values and prompted some residents to consider more affordable regions.

New York County, New York (Manhattan)

Manhattan’s global appeal—cultural institutions, business centers and entertainment—comes with a high effective property tax burden exceeding 3.0%. While population density remains high, recent reports indicate slower population growth as some residents look for less expensive alternatives.

Rockland County, New York

Rockland offers scenic suburbs with strong schools and easy access to New York City, but effective tax rates over 3.0% have contributed to outmigration among younger families. Local reporting highlights millennials leaving at higher rates, often citing property taxes as a main concern.

Westchester County, New York

Affluent neighborhoods, historic sites and varied landscapes make Westchester desirable, but effective tax rates above 3.0% have led many residents to downsize or rethink long-term plans. Rising property taxes are an increasing factor in local housing decisions.

Falls Church City, Virginia

This small independent city near Washington, D.C., offers excellent schools and historic charm, yet effective tax rates above 3.0% push some residents toward lower-tax suburbs. Trends show an influx of retirees while younger families often seek more affordable options.

Hunterdon County, New Jersey

Known for rolling hills, farms and small towns, Hunterdon offers a quieter lifestyle, but effective rates near 2.5% still make taxes a meaningful part of housing costs. Some younger residents priced out of urban centers opt for other rural or exurban counties with lower tax burdens.

Morris County, New Jersey

Morris County features scenic neighborhoods and strong schools, but effective property tax rates around 2.5% have prompted some residents to relocate to neighboring counties with lower taxes while seeking comparable amenities.

Passaic County, New Jersey

Passaic County blends industrial areas and lively neighborhoods. With effective rates near 2.0%, combined with rising living costs, some residents are seeking more tax-friendly areas. Gentrification trends have brought new residents, but long-term affordability remains a concern.

Suffolk County, New York (Long Island)

Suffolk County’s beaches and wineries attract buyers, but effective rates approaching 2.5% affect demand—especially for high-end waterfront properties. Reports indicate cooling demand in that market segment, influenced in part by tax and interest rate pressures.

Putnam County, New York

Putnam County draws nature lovers with lakes and outdoor recreation. Effective rates near 2.5% mean property taxes remain a significant consideration for homeowners and prospective buyers, influencing long-term affordability.

Orleans County, New York

Orleans County offers agricultural heritage, wineries and lakeside living. Although effective rates around 2.0% are lower than some suburban counties, property taxes still shape retirement and relocation decisions, and rising taxes could alter current migration patterns.

Allegany County, New York

Allegany County’s rural scenery and small towns appeal to buyers seeking lower housing costs, but effective rates near 2.0% can offset savings for younger households. Local reporting highlights the challenge of attracting and retaining young families when taxes are a meaningful expense.

Monroe County, New York

Monroe County, which includes Rochester and access to Lake Ontario, combines urban amenities with suburban neighborhoods. Yet effective rates above 2.0% have contributed to some outflow of young professionals seeking lower-cost areas nearby.

Salem County, New Jersey

Salem County’s rural character, agricultural traditions and proximity to Delaware Bay are appealing, but effective tax rates over 2.0% influence relocation choices. Neighboring counties with slightly lower taxes have attracted some residents seeking similar lifestyles for less cost.

Gloucester County, New Jersey

Gloucester County mixes suburban and rural areas with historic sites and family-oriented communities. Effective rates above 3.0% have raised concerns about long-term affordability, even as the county attracts families priced out of nearby cities. High property taxes remain a key factor in where people choose to live and raise children.

When evaluating a home purchase, property taxes should be considered alongside mortgage rates, insurance, utilities and maintenance. High taxes can erode the financial advantages of attractive schools, commute times or scenic settings. If saving on recurring housing costs is a priority, research effective tax rates, local exemptions, and recent migration trends for the counties you’re considering before making a decision.