Milwaukee homeowners are reeling after opening their latest property assessments, with many seeing double-digit increases. The average rise—15.4% citywide—has sparked frustration, especially among residents who believe that increased spending by Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is contributing to rising tax burdens.
While the City Assessor says a higher assessment doesn’t necessarily mean a higher tax bill, the reality is that MPS remains one of the largest drivers of the city’s overall property tax levy. As MPS continues to increase its spending, a larger share of the city’s tax burden is passed along to homeowners—regardless of whether their property values went up in line with the market.
“It’s all relative,” said City Assessor Nicole Larsen. “If your home’s value went up less than the citywide average, your actual property taxes might even decrease.”
Still, many residents are experiencing sticker shock and wondering how their tax bills climbed so sharply—or what they can do about it. Fortunately, Wisconsin property owners have options, and a short window to act.
Why the Big Jump?
The 15.4% increase in assessments is based on real estate market trends, according to the assessor’s office. However, homeowners are feeling the squeeze from more than just valuation increases. Annual property tax bills are calculated by multiplying the assessed value by the local tax rate—one that’s influenced heavily by spending from five taxing bodies, including MPS.
In 2024, Milwaukee’s combined property tax rate is $22.93 per $1,000 of assessed value—down $0.70 from 2023. That means a home valued at $100,000 would owe $2,293 in taxes. But even with a slightly lower rate, many bills are still higher because of the jump in assessments and changes in how the levy is distributed.
What Can You Do?
The Wisconsin Property Taxpayers’ Guide outlines clear steps for appealing an assessment:
- Start with your assessor. Ask them how your home’s value was determined. They’re required to explain it.
- Do your homework. Before appealing your assessment, compare it to your purchase price, recent sales of similar homes, and any recent professional appraisal to determine if the assessed value is fair.
- Appeal to the Board of Review. You must notify the BOR Clerk at least 48 hours before the first scheduled meeting (no later than May 19 in Milwaukee) and submit a formal objection within the first two hours of that meeting.
The Timeline Matters
Assessments are based on values as of January 1, but the review process doesn’t begin until spring. You have a narrow window to appeal—miss it, and you’re locked in until next year.
To guide homeowners through the process, Wisconsin Property Taxpayers Inc. (WPT) offers a free Practical Guide to Appealing Your Assessment.
The bottom line: your property tax bill is influenced by more than just your home’s value. With rising public school budgets and shifting levy burdens, now’s the time to scrutinize your assessment—and speak up if something doesn’t add up.