.png)
Illinois Property Tax Trends (2026): Rates, Appeals & More
Illinois has some of the highest property taxes in the nation, with an average effective rate of 2.27% - nearly double the national average. Understanding your county's specific rates and appeal process is crucial for Illinois homeowners.
2.27%
Average Tax Rate
$5,408
Average Annual Tax
102
Counties in Illinois
Understanding Illinois Property Taxes
Illinois property taxes are among the highest in the nation, funding essential services like schools, police, fire protection, and local government operations. The state's property tax system is complex, with multiple taxing districts and varying assessment levels.
Key Points About Illinois Property Taxes:
- ✓ Illinois has the 2nd highest property taxes in the U.S.
- ✓ Cook County uses a different assessment system than other counties
- ✓ Property taxes are paid in two installments (typically)
- ✓ Multiple exemptions available including homestead and senior exemptions
- ✓ Appeal deadline is typically March 1st
Major Illinois Counties by Property Tax
Here are the largest counties in Illinois with their property tax rates and median home values:
Regional Property Tax Patterns
Illinois property taxes vary significantly by region, with distinct patterns emerging across the state:
Chicago Metro Area (Highest Taxes)
The collar counties surrounding Cook County typically have the highest property tax rates in Illinois. Lake County leads with a 2.74% rate, followed by Kane (2.47%) and Will (2.41%). These high rates fund extensive school districts and municipal services.
Central Illinois (Moderate Taxes)
Counties in central Illinois like McLean, Champaign, and Peoria have moderate tax rates ranging from 1.5% to 2.0%. These areas balance urban services with rural property values.
Southern Illinois (Lower Taxes)
Southern Illinois counties generally have the lowest property tax rates, often below 1.5%. However, these areas also have lower median home values and fewer municipal services.
Illinois Property Tax Appeal Process
Illinois homeowners have the right to appeal their property tax assessments if they believe their property is over-assessed.
Key Appeal Information:
- Appeal Deadline: March 1st in most counties
- Review Body: Board of Review or Assessor Review
- Evidence Needed: Recent comparable sales, property condition issues, incorrect property data
- Cook County: Has a unique tri-annual assessment cycle
- Success Rate: Varies by county, but professional representation often improves outcomes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Illinois property taxes so high?
Illinois property taxes are high due to heavy reliance on property taxes to fund local services, especially schools. The state provides less funding to schools than many other states, shifting the burden to local property taxes. Additionally, pension obligations and municipal debt contribute to higher rates.
How often are properties reassessed in Illinois?
In Cook County, properties are reassessed every three years on a rotating basis. In all other Illinois counties, properties are reassessed every four years. However, township assessors may apply equalization factors annually.
What exemptions are available for Illinois homeowners?
Illinois offers several exemptions including: General Homestead Exemption ($10,000 in Cook County, $6,000 elsewhere), Senior Citizens Exemption, Senior Freeze Exemption, Disabled Persons' Homestead Exemption, and Disabled Veterans' Standard Homestead Exemption.
How is property tax calculated in Illinois?
Property tax is calculated by multiplying the Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) of your property by the local tax rate. The EAV is typically 33.33% of the fair market value (10% for residential in Cook County). Various exemptions are then subtracted before applying the tax rate.
Save on Your Illinois Property Taxes
Join thousands of Illinois homeowners who have successfully reduced their property tax burden.
Get Your Free Property Tax AnalysisTop 20 Illinois Counties by Property Tax
Explore property tax rates and statistics for Illinois's most populous counties:
| County | Tax Rate | Median Home Value | Avg. Annual Tax | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake County | 2.74% | $314,000 | $8,609 | View Details → |
| McHenry County | 2.57% | $277,000 | $7,129 | View Details → |
| Kendall County | 2.51% | $285,600 | $7,163 | View Details → |
| Kane County | 2.47% | $289,600 | $7,155 | View Details → |
| Winnebago County | 2.45% | $129,300 | $3,169 | View Details → |
| Will County | 2.41% | $283,200 | $6,825 | View Details → |
| Madison County | 2.21% | $149,900 | $3,318 | View Details → |
| DuPage County | 2.11% | $361,700 | $7,646 | View Details → |
| Cook County | 2.02% | $293,700 | $5,941 | View Details → |
| Sangamon County | 1.95% | $156,800 | $3,059 | View Details → |
| McLean County | 1.92% | $174,300 | $3,346 | View Details → |
| Peoria County | 1.86% | $145,600 | $2,708 | View Details → |
| Champaign County | 1.79% | $189,400 | $3,390 | View Details → |
| St. Clair County | 1.76% | $138,200 | $2,432 | View Details → |
| Rock Island County | 1.74% | $132,500 | $2,306 | View Details → |
| Tazewell County | 1.72% | $163,900 | $2,819 | View Details → |
| LaSalle County | 1.68% | $128,700 | $2,162 | View Details → |
| Macon County | 1.64% | $98,400 | $1,614 | View Details → |
| Kankakee County | 1.62% | $134,600 | $2,181 | View Details → |
| DeKalb County | 1.58% | $178,900 | $2,827 | View Details → |
More tax trends
See your county tax data
Understand your county's tax rate, property tax filing guidelines and more.