53538 Property Tax Rate

Property owners in ZIP code 53538 (Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin) pay a median of $3,749/year in property taxes on homes valued at $228,200. This translates to an effective tax rate of 1.64%, which is 17% above the Wisconsin state average of 1.40%.

The monthly property tax burden for a median-valued home in 53538 is approximately $312, which factors into escrow payments on mortgages. This ZIP code is located within Jefferson County. This is $550 more than the Wisconsin average of $3,199/year.

Compared to similar ZIP codes in Wisconsin, 53538 has higher property taxes. ZIP codes with similar effective rates include 53942 (1.64%) and 54302 (1.64%).

In Fort Atkinson, property taxes represent approximately 4.6% of the median household income of $80,784, 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 you can claim the Homestead Credit and Lottery and Gaming Credit (both income-based) to reduce your tax liability — file both credits on your state return after purchase. Jefferson County reassesses at sale; verify with the Jefferson County Assessor that your homestead classification is properly recorded, which is required for state credit eligibility. Request your property assessment and recent comparable sales from the Jefferson County Assessor, and file an appeal with the Board of Review if the assessment exceeds comparable market values.