Utah Property Tax Rates: What You Need to Know in 2025
When you buy property in Utah, a U.S. state known for rapid population growth and low overall tax burden. Also known as the Beehive State, it’s a top destination for homebuyers and investors alike. But even with low rates, your property tax bill can still surprise you—especially if you’re new to the state. Utah’s property tax rates, the percentage of a home’s assessed value paid annually to local governments are calculated differently than in most states. Unlike places that use market value, Utah bases taxes on assessed value, a fraction of the market price set by county appraisers, usually around 55% for residential homes. That means if your house is worth $500,000, the state only taxes you on $275,000. It’s not the full price, but it’s still enough to add up over time.
Here’s the catch: while Utah’s statewide average rate is just 0.57%—one of the lowest in the country—your actual bill depends on where you live. Counties like Utah County and Washington County have seen the biggest jumps in recent years because of booming populations and new construction. Salt Lake County? It’s higher than you’d think, thanks to added school and municipal levies. And don’t forget land tax, the portion of property tax applied to undeveloped or rural parcels. If you’re buying raw land in rural Utah, you’ll pay less per acre than someone in a suburb, but water rights and zoning rules can make the real cost much higher. The state doesn’t cap how much taxes can rise year to year, so even if your rate stays the same, your bill can spike if your home’s value goes up. That’s why people in places like Provo and St. George are seeing 10–20% increases in their tax bills, even without making a single improvement.
Knowing your tax bill isn’t just about budgeting—it’s about avoiding penalties. Late payments in Utah mean interest starts at 1% per month, and after a year, the county can place a lien on your property. In extreme cases, they’ll auction it off. You can appeal your assessed value if you think it’s too high, but you need to act fast—deadlines are strict, and you’ll need recent comparable sales to back up your claim. Most counties offer online tools to look up your property’s assessed value, tax rate, and payment history. Just search “[County Name] Utah property tax lookup” and you’ll find it.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Ogden, an investor eyeing land near Park City, or a retiree downsizing in Cedar City, understanding how Utah’s property tax system works saves money and stress. Below, you’ll find real examples and practical advice from people who’ve been through it—what they paid, where they got caught off guard, and how they kept their costs under control.
Which Utah City Pays the Highest Property Taxes?
Discover which Utah city has the highest property taxes, see a detailed rate comparison, learn how taxes affect land purchases, and get practical tips to keep your tax bill low.
- October 14 2025
- Archer Hollings
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