2020 Massachusetts Property Tax Rates for Every Location

Ad Valorem Taxes Explained

Massachusetts property real estate taxes are calculated by multiplying the property's value by the location's real estate tax.

This is similar to other New England states, like New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

Property taxes are also referred to as ad valorem taxes. An ad valorem tax is a tax based on the assessed value of an item, such as real estate or personal property.

Taxable property in Massachusetts is assigned by an assessor to one of four classes: commercial, industrial, open space, or residential. A property's tax bill is based upon the fair market worth of that asset.

Factors considered by assessors when calculating the value of a property include: the property's location, what it is currently used for, the lot size, as well as building size.

Exemptions for ad valorem tax exist for eligible senior citizens and veterans, religous and philanthropic institutions, and blind individuals. See the Massachusetts Department of Revenue website for additional information about qualifying property tax exemptions.

For more information about exemptions for seniors over 70, veterans, and legally blind persons, please contact your local assessors.