This time of year when many of us are reminded how much tax we pay—not only to the federal government, but to the state of Montana as well.

Governor Greg Gianforte has sent out a reminder to Montana homeowners to make sure they are registered for the 2026 Homestead Reduced Rate. This is an opportunity for Montana homeowners to pay less property tax this year. 

READ MORE: Montana Homeowners Face March 1 Deadline for Major Property Tax Savings

One question some Montanans have is how our state compares to others when it comes to what we pay in property taxes. Wallet Hub has the 2026 property tax rankings. The average U.S. household pays $3,119 per year in property taxes on its home, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.    

How Montana Compares to the National Property Tax Average

Montana is below average for property taxes, according to the report. Montana is tied with Mississippi for 19th place. Montana’s state median home value is $375,800, with an annual tax of $2,693.  Hawaii has the lowest property taxes, followed by Alabama, Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado. 

Vehicle Taxes: A Different Story for Montanans

When it comes to vehicle taxes, Montana ranks among the highest, at 33rd. There are twenty-five states that pay zero annual taxes on vehicles priced at $29k. Montanans pay $329. The state with the highest vehicle tax rate is Virginia, which pays $1,156 for a similarly priced car.

With Montana’s 2026 Homestead Reduced Rate, it could move our state higher in the ranking for property taxes next year. It doesn’t look like Montanans will get a break on our vehicle taxes any time soon.  

Where Montanans Would Like to Live in Montana

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Gallery Credit: Chris Wolfe

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Gallery Credit: Chris Wolfe

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