Ross County Property Tax Complete Guide 2026

Property tax in Ross County is a local tax charged on real estate such as homes, land, or buildings. This tax helps fund essential community services like schools, parks, roads, police, and fire departments.

Every property owner in Ross County is responsible for paying property tax, and the amount is based on the assessed value of their property. The Ross County Auditor determines property values, while the Ross County Treasurer collects the tax payments.

Ross County Property Tax Rates

Property tax rates in Ross County are measured in mills. One mill equals $1 tax for every $1,000 of assessed property value.

Each city, village, and township in Ross County has different rates depending on local levies, school districts, and county needs.

Example:

• The county-wide average tax rate in 2026 is approximately 50 to 85 mills, depending on the location.
• Some areas, like Chillicothe, may have slightly higher rates due to local school or park levies.
• These rates may change annually when local voters approve new levies or bond issues.

Cities in Ross County (2026 Property Tax Rates)

Ross County’s major cities and villages have distinct property tax rates based on local levies, school districts, and municipal services. These rates help fund schools, safety, and city services.

Townships in Ross County (2026 Property Tax Rates)

Township property taxes in Ross County vary depending on school districts, local levies, and infrastructure needs. Rural townships often have lower rates, balancing affordability with essential services.

School District Linked Tax Areas in Ross County (2026)

School district taxes make up a significant portion of Ross County property tax rates. These funds ensure strong support for local education, maintaining quality schools and fostering community growth.

How Ross County Property Tax is Calculated

Property tax in Ross County is calculated using a simple formula:

Assessed Value × Tax Rate (in mills) = Annual Property Tax

1. Market Value: The Ross County Auditor first estimates your property’s fair market value.
2. Assessed Value: In Ohio, property is assessed at 35% of its market value.
3. Tax Rate: The total millage rate for your area is applied to the assessed value.

Example:
If your home’s market value is $200,000 and your total tax rate is 80 mills:

• Assessed value = 35% × $200,000 = $70,000
• Property tax = $70,000 × 0.080 = $5,600 per year

You can use the official Ross County tax calculator here: Ross County Property Tax Calculator

Types of Property Taxes in Ross County

Ross County property tax is composed of several parts, each serving a specific purpose:

1. General (Ad Valorem) Tax: Main tax based on assessed property value.
2. Special Assessments: Charged for local improvements like sidewalks, drainage, or road repairs.
3. School District Levies: Major portion used to fund public schools.
4. Township and Municipality Levies: Support fire, police, road maintenance, and local parks.
5. County-Wide Levies: Fund county programs such as parks, senior services, or health departments.
6. Bond and Emergency Levies: Temporary taxes approved for specific construction or renovation projects.

How to Pay Ross County Property Taxes

Property taxes in Ross County can be paid to the Ross County Treasurer using several options:

1. Online Payment: Pay securely via the Ross County Treasurer Online Payment Portal
2. By Mail: Send a check with your tax bill to the Treasurer’s office:
   Ross County Treasurer, 10 N Paint St, Chillicothe, OH 45601
3. In-Person: Visit the Treasurer’s office during business hours.

Taxes are billed twice a year:

• First half due around February
• Second half due around July

Late payments may incur penalties and interest, so always pay before the due date.

Property Tax Exemptions and Credits in Ross County

Certain property owners in Ross County may qualify for tax relief or exemptions:

1. Homestead Exemption:
   • Available for seniors (age 65+) or permanently disabled homeowners.
   • Reduces the taxable value of your property, lowering the total tax bill.
   • Apply through the Ross County Auditor’s Office.
2. CAUV (Current Agricultural Use Valuation):
   • For farmland used primarily for agricultural purposes.
   • Taxes are based on agricultural value rather than full market value.
3. Charitable and Religious Properties:
   • Certain nonprofit or church-owned properties may qualify for a full exemption.
   • Applications are submitted via the Ross County Auditor’s Office.

How to Appeal Your Property Valuation

If you believe your property has been overvalued, you can file a complaint to adjust its assessed value.

Steps to Appeal:

1. File a complaint with the Ross County Board of Revision.
2. Submit required documents, such as valuation forms and proof of market value.
3. Attend the hearing and present your case.
4. The Board will review and may reduce your property value if warranted.

The typical filing period runs from January 1 to March 31 each year.

Understanding Your Ross County Property Tax Bill

Your property tax bill provides detailed information including:

• Parcel number and property location
• Assessed value and taxable value
• Millage rates applied
• Breakdown of where your tax money goes (schools, parks, fire, etc.)
• Payment due dates

Each section of your bill shows how much of your payment supports specific community services, helping you understand how your taxes are utilized.

Where Property Tax Money Goes in Ross County

Property tax revenue in Ross County is distributed among several public services:

• Schools: 60 to 70% of total tax revenue
• County Government: 10 to 15%
• Township or City Services: 10 to 15%
• Special Districts (Parks, Fire, Health, Senior Services): Remaining portion

This ensures your tax dollars directly support education, safety, and local infrastructure within Ross County.

Conclusion

Ross County Property Tax is a crucial system that keeps local services functioning effectively. Understanding how property taxes are calculated, where the funds go, and how to manage your payments helps you stay compliant and financially prepared.

Whether you are a new homeowner or a real estate investor, knowing the Ross County Property Tax process ensures you have full control over your property responsibilities in 2026 and beyond.

FAQ’s