Why Are Property Taxes So High in Texas — and Can I Protest Them?

Delilah Walter
Dec 8, 2025
2 min read

If you’ve opened your property tax appraisal notice and felt your jaw drop, you’re not alone. Texans across the state are asking the same question every year:

“Why are property taxes so high — and what can I do about it?”

Let’s break down why Texas property taxes seem to climb year after year — and what you can do to make sure you’re not paying more than you should.

💡 Why Texas Property Taxes Feel So High

Texas is one of the few states that does not have a state income tax. That might sound great — and it is — but it also means local governments rely heavily on property taxes to fund schools, police, roads, fire departments, and other public services.

Each year, county appraisal districts determine your property’s assessed value, which directly affects how much tax you owe. When property values rise — even if you haven’t made any changes to your home — your taxes can increase right along with them.

🧾 How Property Taxes Are Calculated

Your property tax bill is based on two main factors:

Your property’s appraised value, determined by your county appraisal district
The local tax rates, set by your city, county, and school districts

These rates are combined to determine your total annual tax.

If your home’s appraised value goes up but local rates stay the same, your tax bill still increases.

⚖️ Can You Protest Your Property Taxes?

Yes — and you absolutely should if your appraisal seems inaccurate.

Each year, Texas homeowners have the right to protest their property valuation. The deadline is usually May 15 or 30 days after you receive your appraisal notice, whichever comes later.

You can file your protest online or in person with your County Appraisal District (CAD).

Here’s what you’ll need:

Your notice of appraised value
Recent comparable sales (comps) in your neighborhood
Evidence of property defects or needed repairs
Photos, inspection reports, or documentation showing lower value

After filing, you’ll attend an Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing to present your case.

🧠 Tips for a Strong Protest

Do your homework. Research comparable home sales in your area.
Be specific. General complaints (“my taxes are too high”) won’t work — focus on the facts.
Be polite but persistent. The process can take time, but many homeowners see meaningful reductions.