Story perspectives

Chicago Property Taxes Surge 16.7%, Hitting Low-Income Areas Hard

11/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

The median Chicago property tax bill rose 16.7%, the largest jump in over 30 years.
The increase stems from a decline in Loop commercial property values, reducing tax revenue by more than $129 million.
Lower-income homeowners, especially in predominantly Black neighborhoods, face the steepest increases.
In West Garfield Park and North Lawndale, bills rose 133% and 99%, respectively.
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas said she is concerned for struggling communities.

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Story summary

The median Chicago property tax bill rose 16.7%, the largest jump in over 30 years.
The increase stems from a decline in Loop commercial property values, reducing tax revenue by more than $129 million.
Lower-income homeowners, especially in predominantly Black neighborhoods, face the steepest increases.
In West Garfield Park and North Lawndale, bills rose 133% and 99%, respectively.
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas said she is concerned for struggling communities.