53098 Property Tax Rate

Property owners in ZIP code 53098 (Watertown, Wisconsin) pay a median of $3,964/year in property taxes on homes valued at $239,700. This translates to an effective tax rate of 1.65%, which is 18% above the Wisconsin state average of 1.40%.

The monthly property tax burden for a median-valued home in 53098 is approximately $330, which factors into escrow payments on mortgages. This ZIP code is located within Dodge County. This is $765 more than the Wisconsin average of $3,199/year.

Compared to similar ZIP codes in Wisconsin, 53098 has higher property taxes. ZIP codes with similar effective rates include 53594 (1.65%) and 54021 (1.65%).

In Watertown, property taxes represent approximately 5.4% of the median household income of $73,147, providing context for the relative tax burden on homeowners in this area.

Wisconsin taxes primary residences at full market value with no state cap, but the Homestead Credit and Lottery and Gaming Credit (both income-based) can significantly reduce your tax bill — apply for both credits on your state return after purchase. Dodge County reassesses at sale; verify with the Dodge County Assessor that your homestead classification is recorded correctly, which is required to claim state credits. Request your assessed value and comparable sales data from the Dodge County Assessor, and file an appeal with the Board of Review if the assessment appears inflated.