It’s not a list you want to score high on, but unfortunately, Texas does. A new study by the Tax Foundation shows that the Lone Star State has the sixth highest property tax burden in the nation.
Texas’ tax rate is set locally, with half to two-thirds of the property tax being levied by public schools. There is a role for the legislature in protecting taxpayers. Among other things: fix a flawed appraisal system, limit the revenue hikes that can be raised off an unapproved piece of land, and – most importantly – restrict the spending that drives the taxing.
Here’s how Texas’ property tax burden compare with the other states:
(Click the image for a full-screen version.)