Navigating St. Louis Property Taxes: A Homeowner's Guide

Understanding Property Taxes in St. Louis

Property taxes in St. Louis are a key expense for homeowners, funding schools, public safety, and infrastructure. The amount you owe is based on your property’s assessed value and the local tax rate. Knowing how these taxes work can help you budget effectively and even identify ways to reduce your tax burden.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated

Your property tax bill is determined using the following formula:

Assessed Value x Tax Rate = Property Tax Due

In St. Louis, residential properties are assessed at 19% of their market value. For example, if your home is valued at $250,000:

$250,000 x 19% = $47,500 (Assessed Value)

If the local tax rate is $8.50 per $100 of assessed value, your property tax bill would be:

($47,500 / $100) x $8.50 = $4,037.50

Historical Changes in Property Tax Rates

St. Louis has experienced fluctuations in property tax rates over the years. A detailed historical listing from 1910 to the present is available through the City of St. Louis. (stlouis-mo.gov) Understanding these historical changes can provide context for current tax obligations and assist in financial planning.

Recent Trends in Property Valuations

In recent years, many St. Louis property owners have seen significant increases in property valuations. Some homeowners reported that their appraised values more than doubled, leading to higher property tax bills. (stlmag.com) Additionally, the median home price in St. Louis County rose about 13.4% from January 2023 to January 2025, reflecting a trend of rising property values. (bizjournals.com) These trends underscore the importance of staying informed about property assessments and understanding their impact on taxes.

Appealing Your Property Tax Assessment

If you believe your home has been overvalued, you have the right to appeal the assessment. Here’s how:

1. Review Your Assessment Notice – Every two years, property owners receive a reassessment notice. Compare the assessed value with similar homes in your neighborhood.

2. Gather Evidence – Collect recent sale prices of comparable properties, an independent appraisal, or any documentation proving incorrect assessment details (e.g., structural issues, incorrect square footage).

3. File an Informal Appeal – Contact the St. Louis Assessor’s Office to request a review. Some disputes are resolved at this stage.

4. Submit a Formal Appeal – If the informal review doesn’t change your assessment, you can file an appeal with the Board of Equalization (BOE) before the annual deadline (usually in July). Visit the St. Louis County website to complete the necessary forms.

5. State-Level Appeal (If Needed) – If the BOE denies your appeal, you can escalate the case to the Missouri State Tax Commission.

By appealing an overvaluation, you could lower your property tax bill and save money.

Tax Relief Programs

Missouri offers tax relief initiatives for eligible homeowners:

• Senior Property Tax Freeze – In 2023, St. Louis County enacted a law allowing seniors aged 67 and older to apply for a freeze on property tax assessments, preventing increases in their tax bills. (callnewspapers.com)

• Missouri Property Tax Credit – Provides credit to qualified senior citizens and 100% disabled individuals for a portion of the real estate taxes or rent they’ve paid for the year.

• Homestead Exemption – Available to certain homeowners facing financial hardships.

Exploring these programs can lead to significant savings.

Protecting Yourself as a Homeowner

To safeguard against unforeseen property tax increases:

• Stay Informed – Regularly review local news and updates from the Assessor’s Office regarding tax rate changes and assessment practices.

• Engage in Community Discussions – Participate in local forums and attend city council meetings to stay abreast of policy changes affecting property taxes.

• Consult Professionals – Seek advice from tax professionals or real estate experts to better understand your tax obligations and potential relief options.

• Budget Accordingly – Anticipate potential increases in property taxes when planning your annual finances, especially if property values in your area are rising.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Calculation – Property taxes are based on your home’s assessed value and the local tax rate.

• Monitor Your Assessment – Check your home’s valuation and compare it to market trends.

• Know Your Appeal Rights – If your assessment seems too high, follow the appeals process to challenge it.

• Explore Tax Relief Programs – You may qualify for programs that reduce your tax bill.

• Stay Proactive – Engage in discussions, consult experts, and budget wisely to avoid surprises.

Navigating St. Louis property taxes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying informed, you can ensure you’re paying a fair amount and taking advantage of available tax-saving opportunities.