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    Buyer Guide February 2026 7 min read

    Property Taxes Compared: Montgomery, Chester, Delaware & Bucks Counties (2026)

    Property taxes are one of the largest ongoing costs of homeownership — and they vary widely across the Philadelphia suburbs. This 2026 guide compares effective property tax rates and school district millage across Montgomery, Chester, Delaware, and Bucks Counties in Pennsylvania.

    Montgomery County: 1.3% to 1.6%

    Montgomery County's effective property tax rate averages 1.3% to 1.6%. Lower Merion sits at the high end driven by school millage.

    Chester County: 1.3% to 1.7%

    Chester County's effective rate averages 1.3% to 1.7%. Tredyffrin/Easttown and Great Valley districts carry higher millage than Phoenixville Area or Coatesville Area, reflecting school funding and community investment.

    Delaware County: 1.6% to 2.1%

    Delaware County has one of the highest effective property tax rates in the region — averaging 1.6% to 2.1%. Radnor Township sits at the upper end due to well-regarded school district funding; Newtown Township and Edgmont remain more competitive.

    Bucks County: 1.4% to 1.8%

    Bucks County's effective rate averages 1.4% to 1.8%. Council Rock and Central Bucks districts carry mid-to-upper millage; Pennridge and Quakertown remain more competitive.

    Strong-Value Townships

    If property taxes matter most, compare the current tax bills, assessments, and school millage for the specific properties you are considering. County averages can hide large municipal differences.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    There is no reliable single answer because assessments, municipal rates, and school millage differ. Compare the current tax bill for each property and confirm it with the county and municipality.

    Yes. Delaware County has one of the highest effective property tax rates in the Philadelphia suburbs, averaging 1.6% to 2.1%. Radnor Township sits at the upper end due to school district funding.

    Pennsylvania property taxes combine three layers: county, township/borough, and school district millage. The combined millage is multiplied by the assessed value (which differs from market value) to calculate the annual tax bill.

    Have Questions About Buying or Selling?

    Saiid Zamani helps buyers and sellers in Wayne, Malvern, Chesterbrook, and across the Philadelphia suburbs.

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