When considering buying a home or moving to Duluth, it is very important to understand how property taxes and the education budget are connected.

In the U.S., public school budgets are largely funded by local property taxes, so where you live directly affects the quality of the school your child will attend. Duluth falls under the jurisdiction of Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS).

Georgia's property tax is expressed as a millage rate. One mill means a tax of $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value. The property tax in Duluth combines the Georgia state tax, Gwinnett County tax, Gwinnett County education tax, and the city tax of Duluth.

The Gwinnett County education millage rate is around 19 to 21 mills, and when including county operational taxes and other taxes, the total millage rate ranges from 28 to 35 mills. The actual tax amount is calculated by applying the millage rate to 40% of the fair market value of the home, which is the assessed value.

The homestead exemption is a tax reduction benefit provided for primary residences. Georgia offers a state-level homestead exemption that deducts $2,000 from the assessed value. Gwinnett County provides additional homestead exemptions that allow residents to receive greater tax savings.

For example, Gwinnett County operates various exemption programs, including a school tax exemption. Seniors aged 62 and older, disabled individuals, and veterans may qualify for additional exemptions, so it is advisable to check with the Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner's office. The application deadline is April 1 each year.

Looking at the Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) budget, GCPS is the second-largest education system in Georgia.

It serves about 180,000 students, with an annual budget of over $1.7 billion. A significant portion of this budget is covered by local property taxes. GCPS is highly regarded within Georgia, offering a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and vocational education courses. Public schools in the Duluth area also maintain a relatively excellent educational environment under GCPS.

It is also important to be aware of the property tax payment schedule. Georgia property taxes are typically paid once a year, and in Gwinnett County, the payment deadline is between mid-October and the end of November each year. Payment methods include online (via the Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner's website), by mail, or in-person visits.

If you purchase a home through a mortgage, the lender often pays the property taxes on your behalf through an escrow account. In this case, the monthly mortgage payment includes property taxes and insurance. It is important to calculate the expected property tax amount before buying a home and to factor it into your budget.