5 States With No Property Tax for Seniors (And Where to Buy Land)
Property taxes can be one of the biggest ongoing expenses for retirees. If you're dreaming of a peaceful rural life without the financial burden, the good news is some states offer full or partial property tax exemptions for seniors. Here are five states where you can drastically reduce or eliminate your property tax bill—plus great areas in each state to consider buying land.
1. Alabama
Why it’s senior-friendly: Alabama offers a full property tax exemption on your primary residence for those over 65 with low income, and partial exemptions for higher earners.
Where to buy land: Look at counties like Blount, DeKalb, or Winston for affordable land near lakes and mountains. 5+ acre lots regularly list for under $75k.
2. South Dakota
Why it’s senior-friendly: Seniors over 65 can apply for a property tax freeze, ensuring their tax bill never increases even if property values rise.
Where to buy land: The Black Hills region offers scenic mountain plots, or look to the Missouri River Valley for open pasture and farmland opportunities.
3. Georgia
Why it’s senior-friendly: Georgia has generous homestead exemptions for seniors, especially in rural counties. Some exemptions reduce property taxes by up to $10,000 or more.
Where to buy land: Consider areas in northeast Georgia like Rabun County or Habersham, where mountain views and affordable land still exist.
4. Mississippi
Why it’s senior-friendly: Seniors over 65 get an automatic exemption on the first $7,500 of assessed value on their primary residence.
Where to buy land: Look to north Mississippi or rural areas near the Natchez Trace. You can still find large tracts of land for under $3,000 per acre.
5. Alaska
Why it’s senior-friendly: Residents over 65 receive a tax exemption on the first $150,000 of property value. In many rural boroughs, that means paying zero property tax.
Where to buy land: Remote boroughs like Kenai Peninsula or the outskirts of Fairbanks offer beautiful off-grid parcels with generous tax advantages.
Final Thoughts
For retirees, moving to a state with property tax relief can unlock huge annual savings. Combine that with affordable rural land, and you’re well on your way to building a low-cost, peaceful lifestyle. Just be sure to check with your local tax assessor’s office to confirm exemption details before purchasing.
