Property Tax in Galax city
via TaxByCounty
Galax taxes rate high despite low values
At 0.759%, Galax city's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.579% by 31%, placing it in the 72nd percentile nationally. With a median home value of just $126,800—less than half the national median of $281,900—the city's aggressive tax rate on modest homes creates a notably heavy burden relative to property value.
Galax ranks third-highest tax rate in state
Galax city's 0.759% effective rate ranks third in Virginia, trailing only Fauquier County (0.770%) and Franklin city (0.738%), and exceeding the state average of 0.671% by 13%. This makes Galax one of Virginia's most tax-intensive jurisdictions despite having the lowest median home values among the eight counties examined.
Galax towers over surrounding rural areas
Galax city's 0.759% rate substantially exceeds surrounding rural counties like Floyd (0.521%) and Franklin (0.533%), creating a striking contrast in tax burden. A homeowner with a $126,800 property pays $962 in Galax versus just $661 in Floyd—a 45% premium despite identical property value.
Galax residents pay $962 annually
With a median home value of $126,800 and a 0.759% effective rate, typical Galax residents pay approximately $962 in annual property taxes. While the absolute dollar amount is modest, the tax rate consumes a larger percentage of property value than nearly anywhere else in Virginia.
Galax homeowners should challenge assessments
High effective tax rates on low-value properties often signal overassessment issues—assessments may not reflect the true market value of modest homes. Galax homeowners should file appeals based on recent comparable sales, as many discover substantial overpayment opportunities.