County property tax calculator
Property Tax Calculator for Franklin County
Franklin County sits above the national property tax average at 1.501%. On a median home of $87,700, that translates to $1,316 per year, or $110 per month in escrow. The gap versus the 1.07% US average is meaningful — enough to move the needle on monthly affordability for buyers comparing this county with lower-tax neighbors. Local jurisdictions here fund schools and services primarily through property taxes, which is why the rate sits where it does. For buyers budgeting the purchase, factoring this into the total monthly payment before making an offer keeps expectations grounded and avoids surprises at closing. Franklin County is one of the more affordable markets in Illinois. A median home value of $87,700 places entry-level pricing within reach for first-time buyers and investors alike. With FHA loans at 3.5% down or VA loans at 0%, the barrier to entry is often the lowest in the region. Lower valuations also mean lower absolute tax bills and insurance premiums. The trade-off may be distance from major employment centers or access to specific school districts. Buyers exploring this tier should compare commute cost and time against the lower purchase price. Rental demand in entry-priced markets is often steady, which supports the investor case. With entry-level pricing and access to first-time buyer programs, this market often allows buyers to enter with a smaller cash reserve than premium or expensive tiers would require.
Property Tax Details
National average is 1.07%
Used to project future tax burden
Annual Property Tax
$0
Insights
Property Tax Landscape in Franklin County
Franklin County stands out within Illinois with a 1.501% effective rate — well below the state average of 2.05%. The gap saves roughly $481 per year on a median-priced home, a substantial amount when compounded over the life of a mortgage. Counties in this tier often fund services through alternative revenue: sales tax, state transfers, tourism, or commercial tax base. For buyers who plan to hold long-term, the cumulative savings versus higher-tax counties in Illinois can run into the tens of thousands. Escrow will still adjust with assessments, but the baseline rate offers a structurally lower carrying cost. Within Illinois, Franklin County ranks as the 17th lowest of 102 counties by effective property tax rate.
Franklin County is one of the more affordable markets in Illinois. A median home value of $87,700 places entry-level pricing within reach for first-time buyers and investors alike. With FHA loans at 3.5% down or VA loans at 0%, the barrier to entry is often the lowest in the region. Lower valuations also mean lower absolute tax bills and insurance premiums. The trade-off may be distance from major employment centers or access to specific school districts. Buyers exploring this tier should compare commute cost and time against the lower purchase price. Rental demand in entry-priced markets is often steady, which supports the investor case. Household income in Franklin County runs well below the Illinois average at $53,471. FHA, USDA, and down-payment assistance programs typically play a larger role in the financing mix here than in higher-income counties. The price-to-income ratio of 1.6x reflects a balanced profile for the region — median-income buyers have reasonable access to the market. Median gross rent runs $771 per month, giving renters a baseline to compare against ownership costs in the same market.
Property Tax Scenarios — Franklin County
Entry-level markets still carry ongoing tax obligations. The scenarios below show what annual and monthly escrow looks like across five price points, from below median to above. Buyers evaluating a first purchase here should use these numbers to plan the full monthly carrying cost, not just principal and interest.
| Home Value | Annual Tax | Monthly Escrow | 10-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| $45,000 | $675 | $56 | $6,755 |
| $65,000 | $976 | $81 | $9,757 |
| $90,000 | $1,351 | $113 | $13,509 |
| $130,000 | $1,951 | $163 | $19,513 |
| $175,000 | $2,627 | $219 | $26,268 |
Frequently asked questions
For buyers considering Franklin County, the questions below address the tax load, escrow mechanics, and comparisons with state averages. Answers use county-specific data from the 2023 Census ACS.
What is the property tax rate in Franklin County?
Franklin County has an effective property tax rate of 1.501%, above the national average (national average: 1.07%). On a median home of $87,700, that's about $1,316 per year, or $110 monthly through escrow.
How much are property taxes on a home in Franklin County?
At the county median of $87,700, annual property taxes run roughly $1,316, collected through mortgage escrow at about $110 per month.
How does Franklin County compare to Illinois?
Franklin County's 1.501% rate is substantially below Illinois's statewide average of 2.05%. The difference equals about $481 per year on a median home.
What is the median income in Franklin County?
Median household income in Franklin County is $53,471 (Census ACS 2023). Median gross rent runs $771 per month.
Are property taxes deductible in Franklin County?
Yes, property taxes are deductible on federal returns when you itemize, subject to the SALT cap ($10,000 for most filers). Franklin County homeowners paying $1,316 annually may benefit if their combined state and local tax burden exceeds the standard deduction.
How are property taxes calculated in Franklin County?
The county assessor multiplies your home's assessed value by the local tax rate. On a $87,700 home at the county's effective rate of 1.501%, the annual bill is approximately $1,316.
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Disclaimer: This calculator and the content on this page are for educational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Rates, loan limits, and eligibility criteria vary by lender, location, and borrower profile. Always consult a licensed financial professional before making borrowing decisions. CalcPier is independent and not affiliated with any lender listed on this page.
