Union County (New Jersey) property taxes vary widely by municipality, with an average effective tax rate of around 2.226%, ranging from nearly 1.554% to above 3.0%. With a median home value of approximately $545,750, rates depend on local municipal, school, and county budgets. Using a Union County New Jersey tax calculator helps homeowners estimate taxes accurately for towns like Elizabeth, Linden, and Rahway.
Union County, NJ Tax Estimator (2026 Rates)
Estimator uses 2026 Union County effective tax rates per $100 of assessed value.
Union County (New Jersey) Property Tax Due Dates 2026
Property taxes in Union County (New Jersey) are billed quarterly in 2026. Due dates are consistent statewide, but final amounts vary by municipality based on local tax rates and assessed property values.
Union County Property Tax Due Dates (2026)
| Installment | Due Date |
|---|---|
| 1st Quarter | February 1, 2026 |
| 2nd Quarter | May 1, 2026 |
| 3rd Quarter | August 1, 2026 |
| 4th Quarter | November 1, 2026 |
Late Payment Penalties in Union County for 2026
Late property tax payments in Union County are subject to penalties after the grace period, usually 10 days. Interest typically accrues at 8% annually, increasing to 18% on balances over $1,500, depending on municipal rules and state regulations.
Union County Property Tax Calculator
Our Union County property tax calculator allows homeowners to estimate annual taxes based on appraised value, municipality, property type, and applicable credits. It simplifies calculations for accurate tax planning and budgeting.
How to Use the Calculator
To use the calculator, enter the appraised or market value of your home, select your municipality, and choose the property type (residential, agricultural, commercial, or industrial). The calculator adjusts rates automatically based on Union County’s municipal, school, and county tax budgets.
Understanding Assessed Value
Assessed value is the taxable portion of your property determined by the municipality. In Union County, this is typically a percentage of the appraised market value. For example, a home valued at $545,750 may have an assessed value of $500,000, which is used to calculate your total property tax.
Applying Credits and Owner-Occupancy
Union County homeowners may qualify for credits like the 2% owner-occupancy credit. Select “Yes” if you live in the property, and the calculator automatically reduces your estimated tax. This ensures accurate tax estimates and helps you plan payments efficiently.
Example Property Tax Calculation (Union County, 2026)
| Municipality | Appraised / Market Value | Assessed Value | Property Type | Owner-Occupancy Credit | Estimated Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth | $400,000 | $380,000 | Residential | Yes (2%) | $7,426 |
| Linden | $387,200 | $365,000 | Residential | Yes (2%) | $6,853 |
| Rahway | $450,000 | $430,000 | Residential | No | $11,666 |
Explanation:
- Appraised / Market Value – The current value of the property.
- Assessed Value – Portion of market value used for taxation. Union County municipalities usually apply a ratio of market value.
- Owner-Occupancy Credit – Reduces taxes for owners living in the home (commonly 2%).
- Estimated Tax – Calculated by multiplying assessed value by local tax rate (municipal + school + county).
This table shows how different towns in Union County can result in varying taxes even for similar property values, helping homeowners plan accurately.
Union County Property Tax Distribution (2025 payable for 2026)
Union County property taxes are allocated across multiple districts, including local health services, open space, schools, and municipal budgets. Each portion contributes to the overall tax rate, which varies by municipality, helping residents understand exactly where their property tax payments are applied.
Local & County Tax Allocations
These allocations cover health services, county open space, and municipal purposes. Understanding each category allows homeowners to see how local services are funded through property taxes in Union County.
| District | Rate | Rounded Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Local Health Services | 0.0003 | 0.028 |
| County Open Space | 0.0006 | 0.058 |
| Local Municipal Budgets | 0.0004 | 0.039 |
| Local Municipal Purposes | 0.0016 | 0.156 |
| Networksheet Col. E/COL.B | 0.0008 | 0.081 |
| Manual | 0.0006 | 0.056 |
This table represents Union County’s 2026 local and county tax contributions, showing both precise rates and rounded figures for clarity.
School District Tax Rates
School taxes include local and regional districts, which form the largest portion of property taxes. These rates fund primary, secondary, and specialized programs within Union County.
| District | Rate | Rounded Rate |
|---|---|---|
| District School | 0.0193 | 1.932 |
| Regional School | 0.0378 | 3.779 |
| Networksheet Col. F/COL.B | 0.0265 | 2.657 |
| Manual | 0.0488 | 4.881 |
| Local Health Services | 0.0000 | 0.000 |
| Local Municipal Purposes | 0.0353 | 3.536 |
This table clarifies school-related tax contributions across Union County municipalities, combining local and regional school funding.
Additional Municipal & Special Taxes
Other taxes include specialized municipal charges and network sheet allocations. These small percentages fund unique county projects, ensuring all areas of governance are supported.
| District | Rate | Rounded Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Networksheet Col. G/COL.B | 0.0127 | 1.270 |
| Networksheet Col. H/COL.B | 0.1168 | 11.683 |
| Networksheet Col. I/COL.B | 0.0245 | 2.451 |
| Networksheet Col. J/COL.B | 0.0270 | 2.705 |
| Manual | 0.0296 | 2.965 |
| Local Municipal Budgets | 0.0114 | 1.142 |
This table shows additional municipal and network sheet allocations, reflecting minor but essential property tax contributions in Union County.
Union County Property Tax Rates 2025 PDF Overview
This PDF provides a comprehensive view of Union County’s 2025 property tax rates by municipality, including general and effective tax rates. It helps homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals understand local tax obligations and compare rates across towns for accurate planning and budgeting.
Conclusion
Union County’s property taxes in 2025 vary widely by municipality, influenced by local municipal, school, and county budgets. Using tools like our property tax calculator helps homeowners estimate taxes accurately, plan payments, and understand how assessed values, credits, and effective tax rates impact their annual obligations. Awareness of due dates and penalties ensures timely compliance and avoids additional charges.
FAQs
What is the average property tax rate in Union County?
The average effective tax rate in Union County is approximately 2.226%, but it ranges from 1.554% to over 3%, depending on the municipality.
How can I calculate my Union County property tax?
You can use our Union County property tax calculator by entering your home’s market value, municipality, property type, and any applicable owner-occupancy credits.
When are property tax payments due in Union County?
Property taxes are generally due quarterly in 2026: February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1. Specific municipalities may provide grace periods.
What penalties apply for late property tax payments?
Late payments incur penalties and interest, typically 8% annually, increasing for balances over $1,500. Municipal rules may vary slightly.
Does Union County offer tax credits for homeowners?
Yes, the 2% owner-occupancy credit reduces taxes for residents living in their property. Some municipalities may offer additional local credits.