How do property taxes affect home affordability in South Jersey?

Property taxes are a major component of your total housing costs. Higher tax rates in counties like Camden increase annual costs and monthly payments, which means buyers may qualify for less mortgage amount for the same income compared to areas with lower taxes.([mgsells.com](https://www.mgsells.com/blog/how-property-taxes-affect-what-you-can-afford-in-south-jersey?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

Which South Jersey counties have the highest property taxes?

Camden County tends to have higher property tax rates (~2.0–2.3% of assessed value) compared with Burlington (~1.6–2.0%) and Gloucester (~1.5–1.8%), resulting in higher annual tax bills on the same home price.([mgsells.com](https://www.mgsells.com/blog/how-property-taxes-affect-what-you-can-afford-in-south-jersey?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

Can property taxes change after buying a home?

Yes. Property taxes can change if the town reassesses home values, adjusts mill rates, or budgets increase, so buyers should plan for possible future tax increases as part of affordability calculations.([mgsells.com](https://www.mgsells.com/blog/how-property-taxes-affect-what-you-can-afford-in-south-jersey?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

How can buyers budget for property taxes when buying?

Buyers should include estimated annual tax amounts in their housing budget, compare effective rates across towns, and discuss exemptions or abatements that may apply to them to avoid surprises in monthly payments.([mgsells.com](https://www.mgsells.com/blog/how-property-taxes-affect-what-you-can-afford-in-south-jersey?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

How do property taxes affect home affordability in South Jersey?

Property taxes are a major component of total housing costs. Higher tax rates increase annual expenses and monthly payments, which can reduce how much buyers comfortably afford for a home.

Which South Jersey counties have the highest property taxes?

Camden County generally has higher effective property tax rates compared with Burlington and Gloucester counties, resulting in higher annual tax bills for similarly priced homes.

Can property taxes change after buying a home?

Yes. Property taxes can change due to reassessments, municipal budget increases, or changes in local tax rates, so buyers should plan for potential increases over time.

How can buyers budget for property taxes when purchasing a home?

Buyers should include estimated annual taxes in their housing budget, compare effective tax rates across towns, and account for future increases to avoid affordability surprises.

Published November 26, 2025

How Property Taxes Affect What You Can Afford in South Jersey

Written by Mary Murphy

Suburban South Jersey home with a tax form and calculator overlay, by side by side set against a clear blue sky overlaid with text: “HOW PROPERTY TAXES IMPACT HOME AFFORDABILITY IN SOUTH JERSEY

For many buyers, understanding property taxes is just as important as listing prices when budgeting for a South Jersey home. Taxes can significantly influence your monthly payments and overall affordability, especially in counties like Camden, Burlington, and Gloucester.

Mary Murphy of The Murphy Group explains:

“Property taxes are often overlooked in early budget planning, but they’re a major factor in long-term affordability. Knowing the local rates helps buyers make smarter decisions without stretching their budgets.”

**🏠 1. Camden County — Higher Rates, Strong Amenities**

Typical Property Tax Rate: ~2.0–2.3% of assessed value
Median Home Price: $475K
Estimated Annual Taxes: $9,500–$10,900

Why It Matters: Higher taxes can increase monthly payments significantly. Buyers should factor taxes into mortgage affordability calculations.

💬 Pro Tip: Look for towns like Cherry Hill or Haddonfield with slightly lower effective rates or tax abatements on new construction.

**🌳 2. Burlington County — Moderate Taxes, Balanced Value**

Typical Property Tax Rate: ~1.6–2.0%
Median Home Price: $440K
Estimated Annual Taxes: $7,000–$8,800

Why It Matters: Taxes are more moderate, making homes slightly more affordable for comparable quality neighborhoods.

💬 Pro Tip: Consider towns like Mount Laurel or Moorestown for predictable taxes and strong school districts.

**🏡 3. Gloucester County — Lower Taxes, Growing Communities**

Typical Property Tax Rate: ~1.5–1.8%
Median Home Price: $380K
Estimated Annual Taxes: $5,700–$6,800

Why It Matters: Lower taxes can free up budget for larger homes, renovations, or savings.

💬 Pro Tip: Towns like Mullica Hill and Glassboro provide strong value for buyers seeking stable communities with reasonable tax burdens.

💡 How to Factor Property Taxes Into Affordability

Calculate Total Monthly Costs: Include mortgage, insurance, and property taxes in your pre-approval process.
Compare Effective Rates: Assess how each town’s tax rate affects your monthly payment, not just home price.
Plan for Increases: Tax rates may rise with new development, municipal needs, or reassessments — budget accordingly.
Leverage Local Programs: Some towns offer exemptions or abatements for first-time buyers, veterans, or seniors.

Mary adds:

“Being tax-savvy helps buyers avoid surprises. Balancing home price and taxes is key to long-term affordability and comfort in South Jersey.”

📊 2025–2026 South Jersey Property Tax Snapshot

County / Town	Median Price	Property Tax Rate	Estimated Annual Taxes
Camden (Cherry Hill)	$475K	2.0–2.3%	$9,500–$10,900
Burlington (Mount Laurel)	$440K	1.6–2.0%	$7,000–$8,800
Gloucester (Mullica Hill)	$380K	1.5–1.8%	$5,700–$6,800
Ocean (Toms River)	$425K	1.7–2.0%	$7,200–$8,500

📈 Buyer Takeaways

Property taxes directly affect what you can afford; don’t ignore them in budgeting.
Town choice matters: even small differences in rates can affect monthly payments by hundreds of dollars.
Pair tax awareness with market data for smarter, long-term buying decisions.

📲 Ready to Explore South Jersey Homes With Tax-Smart Budgeting?

The Murphy Group helps buyers calculate true affordability, compare towns, and find homes that fit both lifestyle and financial goals.

Start your search today at www.mgsells.com