Discontent over property taxes is surging across America, with a significant portion of homeowners feeling the financial strain. A recent UChicago Harris/AP-NORC poll reveals that around two-thirds of Americans believe their property tax rates are excessively high, with 69% deeming the rates “unfair.” The growing frustration spans across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, highlighting a nationwide dissatisfaction.
The poll’s findings also underscore a stark divide in public opinion, with only 27% of respondents considering their property tax rates “about right,” and a mere 3% feeling they are taxed too little. States like New Jersey, Illinois, and New Hampshire impose the highest property tax rates, intensifying the anger among residents, while Hawaii, Alabama, and Colorado enjoy comparatively lower tax burdens.
The dissatisfaction extends beyond tax rates to the perceived value of services received in return. A significant 36% of those surveyed rate the value of services provided by their tax dollars as “poor,” while nearly half believe that middle-income earners bear the heaviest tax burden. Confidence in government to manage tax funds responsibly is alarmingly low, with only 41% expressing trust in their state government and a mere 33% in the federal government to spend tax money wisely.
As property tax resentment continues to mount, the tension between homeowners and government authorities is reaching a boiling point, raising critical questions about tax fairness and the effective use of public funds.
Sources:
www.newsweek.com/property-tax-anger-american-poll-1864769
rantsofizzo.com/dominick/rising-anger-over-property-taxes/