Wichita Property Taxes Explained: What Homebuyers Need to Know (2025 Update)

Buying a home in Wichita isn't just about the purchase price or your mortgage rate - property taxes play a major role in what your true monthly payment looks like. If you're shopping for a home in Wichita or anywhere in Sedgwick County, understanding how property taxes work will help you budget more confidently and avoid surprises at closing.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated in Wichita

In Wichita, property taxes are assessed at the county level (Sedgwick County). Taxes are based on the assessed value of your home multiplied by the mill levy (the local tax rate).

Here's a simple breakdown:

• Assessed Value: Kansas calculates this as a percentage of your home's appraised value (11.5% for residential property).

• Mill Levy: Each taxing authority - city, county, school district, etc. - sets a rate. All of these add up to your total mill levy.

• Annual Property Tax = Assessed Value × Mill Levy ÷ 1,000

For example, if you purchase a $200,000 home in Wichita, the assessed value is $23,000 (11.5%). If the total mill levy is 120 mills, your annual property tax bill would be about $2,760 - or $230 per month added into your mortgage escrow.

What's the Average Property Tax in Wichita?

Most homeowners in Wichita pay between 1.3% - 1.5% of their home's value each year in property taxes. That's slightly higher than the Kansas state average, but still lower than many parts of the country.

Here's a look at some neighborhoods:

• College Hill / East Wichita: Older homes, tax bills often in the $2,000 - $3,500 range depending on updates and value.

• West Wichita / Goddard Schools: Newer subdivisions, common to see $3,000 - $4,500 annually.

• Riverside / Delano: Homes near downtown vary widely, from $1,500 for smaller bungalows up to $4,000+.

When Are Property Taxes Due in Sedgwick County?

Sedgwick County property taxes are billed once per year but can be paid in two installments:

• First Half: Due December 20th

• Second Half: Due May 10th of the following year

Most homeowners never cut a check because your mortgage lender collects the amount monthly in escrow and pays the county for you.

Property Tax Relief & Exemptions

Kansas does offer a few programs that Wichita homeowners should know about:

• Homestead Refund: Provides a partial refund for low- to moderate-income households.

• Safe Senior Refund: Refund for seniors who qualify by age and income.

• Veteran & Disability Exemptions: Certain disabled veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for tax reductions.

If you think you might qualify, it's worth applying through the Kansas Department of Revenue.

How Property Taxes Impact Your Mortgage

Property taxes aren't just an annual bill - they affect your monthly mortgage payment because lenders typically escrow them. This means your "PITI" (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance) can look very different depending on where in Wichita you buy.

A $250,000 home in an area with $2,500 taxes per year adds about $208/month to your payment. In a higher-tax neighborhood with $4,000 per year, that's about $333/month.

That's why when you're comparing homes, it's smart to ask your lender (like us!) to run an "all-in" cost sheet that includes property taxes and insurance - not just the principal and interest.

Recent Trends in Wichita Property Taxes

In recent years, Wichita homeowners have seen modest increases in mill levies due to school district and city budgets. However, property value appreciation has been a bigger driver of rising tax bills.

As Wichita continues to grow - especially in areas like West Wichita and around new developments - expect assessed values to tick upward. That makes tax planning even more important when setting your budget.

Tips to Keep Your Wichita Property Taxes Manageable

• Double-check your assessment: If the county overvalues your home, you can appeal.

• Know the neighborhood differences: Two similar homes can carry very different tax bills based on school districts and mill levies.

• Ask before you buy: Always request a recent tax bill when considering a property.

Final Thoughts

Property taxes are a fact of life for Wichita homeowners, but they don't have to be a mystery. By understanding how they're calculated, when they're due, and how they affect your mortgage payment, you'll be better prepared to budget for your homeownership journey.

If you're house-hunting in Wichita, my team can help you run detailed cost sheets that include property taxes, insurance, and every dollar of your payment - so you know exactly what to expect.

👉 Ready to see what your payment looks like with Wichita property taxes included? Contact Hope Mortgage Solutions today and we'll break it down for you.