Property Tax in McKean County
via TaxByCounty
McKean's rate ranks well above U.S. median
McKean County's effective tax rate of 1.636% substantially exceeds the national median of 1.2%, placing it in the top third of U.S. counties by tax rate. Though the median property tax of $1,615 falls below the national median of $2,690, the effective rate reveals a high burden relative to property values. This reflects aggressive taxation on the county's lower home values.
Among Pennsylvania's highest tax rates
McKean's 1.636% effective rate ranks well above Pennsylvania's state average of 1.317%, placing it in the upper quarter of the state's 67 counties. The county applies one of the steeper tax rates to its properties, signaling high reliance on property taxation for local revenue.
Notably higher than surrounding peers
McKean's 1.636% rate significantly surpasses neighbors Mercer (1.265%), Montour (1.030%), and Lycoming (1.353%), making it the heaviest-taxed county in its immediate region. Only Monroe County (1.839%) edges higher among nearby jurisdictions, underscoring McKean's aggressive property tax stance.
Lower home values mean moderate tax bills
On McKean's median home value of $98,700, the median property tax bill is $1,615 annually, among the lowest in dollar terms across these counties. For owners with mortgages, the effective tax load reaches $1,818; without a mortgage, it drops to $1,450, illustrating how mortgage-related assessments shift the burden.
High rates make assessments worth reviewing
With one of Pennsylvania's highest effective tax rates, McKean homeowners should carefully examine their assessments for potential overvaluation. If your property is valued above comparable recent sales in your neighborhood, filing a tax appeal with the county assessor could yield meaningful savings.