Seniors Over 65 in These States Pay Zero Property Tax

As property taxes continue to rise nationwide, an increasing number of states are rolling out beneficial programs aimed at easing the financial burden on senior citizens. For many Americans aged 65 and older, these exemptions, freezes, and credits can mean substantial savings, sometimes even paying zero property tax. In 2025, a growing list of states has introduced or expanded property tax relief options specifically for seniors, offering critical support as they manage fixed incomes and rising living expenses.

Understanding Senior Property Tax Relief

Property tax relief for seniors typically comes in three major forms: exemptions, credits, and freezes. Exemptions reduce the taxable value of a senior’s primary residence, often by a fixed dollar amount or percentage, effectively lowering the property tax bill. Credits provide direct reductions or reimbursements on taxes paid. Freezes lock in property tax assessments to prevent increases as property values rise, shielding seniors from escalating tax burdens.

While no state completely abolishes all property taxes for seniors statewide, several states offer full exemptions on certain portions of property tax or eliminate specific taxing authority’s charges, resulting in zero property tax liability for qualifying senior homeowners.

States Offering Zero or Near-Zero Property Tax for Seniors

Alabama: Seniors aged 65+ are exempt from the state portion of property taxes, which can equate to zero tax from the state level though county taxes may still apply.
Alaska: Homeowners 65 and older can exempt up to $150,000 of their home’s assessed value, effectively eliminating a large portion of property tax liability.
Florida: Seniors are eligible for an exemption up to $50,000 on their homes, which can drastically reduce or wipe out property taxes. The state’s lack of income tax also makes it a tax-friendly haven for retirees.
New York: Offers generous exemptions up to 50% of the home’s assessed value for qualifying seniors with income limits in place, potentially reducing property tax obligations to zero for many older homeowners.
North Carolina: Seniors may exempt the greater of $25,000 or 50% of the assessed value of their primary residence, significant enough to eliminate property tax bills for many.
Ohio: Approval for an exemption amounting to $26,200 off the assessed value of a senior’s home means many pay little to no property tax.
South Carolina: Provides a $50,000 exemption from fair market value for seniors over 65, effectively eliminating the property tax for numerous qualifying homeowners.
Texas: Has no state property tax; local school districts and other jurisdictions offer homestead exemptions. Seniors receive at least a $10,000 school district exemption plus additional local exemptions, often resulting in zero property tax liability.
Washington: Offers tiered exemptions based on seniors’ income that can potentially cancel out property tax obligations.

Other states such as Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, and the District of Columbia provide significant exemptions, credits, or freezes that greatly reduce or sometimes eliminate property taxes for eligible seniors.

Property Tax Freeze Programs for Seniors

Some states go further by freezing property tax assessments so seniors can avoid increases in property taxes despite rising property values. Notable examples include:

Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Idaho: These states offer seniors the ability to freeze the taxable value of their primary residence, protecting them from tax hikes as market values increase.

Such freezes provide financial predictability and protect seniors from being priced out of their homes due to escalating tax bills.

Why These Programs Matter

For seniors living on fixed incomes, the rising cost of property taxes can be a severe strain, especially when combined with increasing healthcare and everyday living expenses. Property tax relief programs not only improve affordability but also enable seniors to age in place without the threat of being forced to sell their homes due to tax burdens.

What to Consider

Eligibility criteria often include age minimums (commonly 65+), income limits, and the requirement that the home must be the primary residence. Applications typically need to be filed with local assessors or tax authorities, and seniors should regularly check for updates on available programs, as states frequently adjust thresholds and benefits.

The Future of Senior Property Tax Relief

Several states are actively pursuing legislation to enhance property tax relief for seniors. Legislative efforts in states like Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Texas aim to expand exemptions, credits, or freezes to further ease tax burdens on older adults.

Final Thoughts

Today’s seniors over 65 have more routes than ever to reduce or eliminate property tax bills, easing financial stress and securing more stable homes in retirement. If you or a loved one qualify, exploring these state-specific programs could provide significant savings and peace of mind.

By understanding the nuances of each state’s offerings and proactively applying for exemptions or freezes, seniors can maximize their tax relief and enjoy the golden years in greater comfort.