Sick Of Property Taxes? Homeowners In This Missouri Town Haven't Paid A Cent Since 1987 – Here's How

In an era of rising housing costs, one midwestern city is a center for homeowners seeking financial relief.

Since 1987, Ballwin, Missouri – a St. Louis suburb of 31,000 residents – has operated without levying municipal property taxes, catapulting it to the second spot on Realtor.com’s list of the Hottest ZIP codes this year.

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The absence of property taxes has made Ballwin a magnet for homebuyers, with houses flying off the market at a rapid pace. In August, 65% of properties sold above asking price and homes stayed on the market for just 14 days despite 30-year mortgage rates hovering around 6.35%.

Ballwin’s fiscal strategy relies on a mix of sales taxes, utility gross receipts taxes and recreational revenues to fund city services. The total sales tax is 8.74%, slightly higher than neighboring areas. 

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That tax structure hasn’t compromised Ballwin’s quality of life. The town boasts high ratings for its restaurants, coffee shops, schools, job opportunities and parks.

With a median listing price of $409,000, homes in Ballwin are pricier than in some other hot markets but still fall below the national average of $439,500. The price per square foot in Ballwin is $187, compared to the national median of $203.

The town's appeal extends beyond its borders, with 41% of potential buyers coming from outside the area, including a portion from Chicago. Its proximity to St. Louis, a manufacturing, health care and science hub, makes it an attractive option for those returning to office work.

Hannah Jones, senior economist at Realtor.com, said that Ballwin appeals to “buyers willing to pay for the right combination of size and amenities within commuting distance of the office.” She adds that the shift toward more in-office work has increased demand for locations offering convenience and lifestyle perks.

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While Ballwin’s zero property tax policy is a major draw, potential buyers should consider the overall cost of living. Higher home prices and other local fees may offset some savings from the lack of property taxes.

Ballwin’s approach offers a compelling alternative as cities across the U.S. grapple with soaring property taxes. It demonstrates that with creative fiscal management, municipalities can provide high-quality services without relying on traditional property tax structures.

For those eyeing a move to the Midwest, Realtor said that Ballwin presents an intriguing option. Its financial incentives, strong community amenities and proximity to a major city make it stand out in today’s competitive housing market. 

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