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Property Tax Appeal in Boston, MA

Effective rate ~1.22% · Updated November 2026

Estimated annual tax:$6,881on a $564,000 home
Tax Rate
1.22%

Effective rate in Boston

Potential Savings
$803

Estimated annual savings if appeal succeeds

Success Rate
30-40%

Of appeals result in a reduction

Appeal Deadline in Massachusetts

February 1 (or within 30 days of actual tax bill)

Missing the deadline means waiting until the next assessment cycle. Mark your calendar and prepare your evidence well in advance.

How to Appeal Your Property Tax in Boston

1

Review your assessment notice

Check your property's assessed value when the notice arrives. Compare it to what you believe the home would sell for today. In Massachusetts: Abatement application to local assessors.

2

Gather comparable sales

Find 3-5 recent sales of similar homes within 0.5-1 mile. Focus on homes with similar square footage, lot size, age, and condition. Your county assessor's website or Zillow can help.

3

Document property issues

Photograph any condition problems that reduce value: foundation cracks, outdated systems, needed repairs. Assessors may not be aware of interior issues.

4

File your appeal before the deadline

File with your county assessor's office before: February 1 (or within 30 days of actual tax bill). Most jurisdictions allow online filing. The fee is typically $0-$50.

5

Present your case

Attend the hearing with your comps, photos, and a clear argument for why the assessed value exceeds market value. Be factual and concise. In Massachusetts, about 30-40% of appeals result in a reduction.

Is It Worth Appealing in Boston?

Current estimated tax

$6,881/year

If appeal succeeds (10-15% reduction)

$6,078/year

A successful appeal saves approximately $803/year -- that is $4,015 over 5 years until the next reassessment. Filing is typically free or under $50.

Find Your Assessor's Office

Property tax assessor office near Boston, MA on Google Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the property tax rate in Boston, MA?
The effective property tax rate in Boston is approximately 1.22%. On a home valued at $564,000 (the estimated median for Boston), that comes to roughly $6,881 per year. Rates can vary within Massachusetts based on local levies, school districts, and special assessments.
When is the deadline to appeal property taxes in Boston?
In Massachusetts, the property tax appeal deadline is: February 1 (or within 30 days of actual tax bill). Missing this deadline typically means waiting until the next assessment cycle. Mark your calendar and gather comparable sales data (comps) well in advance.
How do I appeal my property tax assessment in Boston?
The appeal process in Massachusetts: Abatement application to local assessors. You will need recent comparable sales within 0.5-1 mile, photos of property condition issues, and any evidence that the assessed value exceeds market value. About 30-40% of appeals result in a reduction.
How much can I save by appealing property taxes in Boston?
Successful appeals in Boston typically result in a 10-15% reduction. On a $564,000 home paying $6,881/year, that is roughly $803 saved annually. The savings compound every year until the next reassessment. Filing an appeal is usually free or costs a small fee ($25-$50).
Back to Boston overview

Tax rates and home values are estimates based on state-level data and regional averages. Actual rates vary by municipality, school district, and special assessments. Appeal deadlines and processes are based on state guidelines -- always confirm with your local assessor. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice.