Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Arapahoe County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

How Property Tax Works in Arapahoe County

Ar​apahoe County determines the taxable value of every real‑estate parcel through an annual assessment performed by the County Assessor’s Office. The assessor first identifies the market value of the property on January 1 of the tax year, then applies the county’s “assessment ratio” (currently 7.15 % for residential properties) to arrive at the assessed value. This assessed value is the base number to which all applicable tax rates—called millage rates—are applied.

A millage rate represents the amount of tax levied per $1,000 of assessed value. In Arapahoe County, multiple entities (the county, city, school district, fire protection district, and special districts) each set their own mill rates. The combined rate for a typical residential parcel in 2024 is roughly 23.5 mills, but rates vary by location and by the specific services that benefit the property. To calculate an estimated tax bill, multiply the assessed value by the total millage rate and then divide by 1,000:

Tax Bill = (Assessed Value × Total Millage Rate) ÷ 1,000

Because millage rates can change each fiscal year, using a property‑tax estimator that pulls the latest rates from the County Treasurer’s online data ensures the most accurate projection.

Available Exemptions

Colorado law provides several exemptions that can reduce the taxable portion of your assessed value. In Arapahoe County you may qualify for one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value of your primary residence by $200,000 in many cases (or 50 % of the appraised value, whichever is less) for state and county taxes.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 + who meet income guidelines can receive an additional exemption of up to $250,000 on state and county portions of the tax.
• Disability Exemption: Qualified disabled persons may obtain a $200,000 (or 50 % of value) exemption on the state and county portions, similar to the senior exemption.
• Veteran Exemption: Eligible veterans (or surviving spouses) can receive a $200,000 exemption on state and county taxes; disabled veterans may qualify for a larger exemption, up to $500,000.

Exemptions must be applied for through the County Assessor’s Office, and most require annual renewal or proof of continued eligibility.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Ar​apahoe County bills property taxes twice a year, aligning with the state’s fiscal calendar:

• First Installment: Due October 1. Payments made after this date incur a 2 % penalty plus interest.
• Second Installment: Due March 1 of the following year. Late payments after this deadline also attract a 2 % penalty and accrued interest.

Taxpayers may choose to pay the full amount on either due date, or they can split the balance evenly between the two installments. The County Treasurer offers several payment methods, including online credit/debit, ACH, and in‑person cash or check. Failure to pay by the March 1 deadline results in a tax lien on the property, possible tax‑sale proceedings, and additional collection fees.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is too high, you have the right to appeal:

• Step 1 – Review the Assessment: Obtain a copy of the assessment notice and compare the market value to recent sales of similar homes.
• Step 2 – File an Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the Arapahoe County Board of Equalization within 30 days of the notice date. Include supporting evidence such as appraisals, sales data, or photographs.
• Step 3 – Attend a Hearing: A hearing will be scheduled, typically within 60 days of filing. You may present your case in person or, if permitted, via video conference.
• Step 4 – Decision: The Board will issue a written decision. If the outcome is unfavorable, you may further appeal to the Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals.

Preparing a concise, data‑driven argument and meeting all filing deadlines dramatically increases the likelihood of a successful reduction.