Why Delaware County’s 19% Property Tax Increase Matters for Homeowners and Buyers
Starting January 2026, homeowners in Delaware County, Pennsylvania will be paying 19% more in property taxes. For many families, this is not just another number on a tax bill. It is a real cost that affects monthly budgets, housing decisions, and long term financial stability.
Whether you are thinking about buying a home in Delaware County or you already live here, this tax increase is something that deserves your attention.
What Is Changing
Delaware County Council approved a 19% property tax increase following a 23% increase last year and a 5% increase the year before. For homeowners, the pattern is hard to ignore.
For a home assessed at approximately $255,000, the increase means about $188 more per year. That equals roughly $15 to $16 more each month. While that amount may seem manageable on its own, repeated increases can quickly add up and stretch household finances.
For many long time residents, it feels like the cost of staying in the same home keeps rising year after year.
Why the County Is Raising Taxes
County officials say the increase is necessary to address a long standing structural deficit. In simple terms, the county has been spending more money than it brings in.
During the pandemic, federal relief funds helped cover some of these gaps. That funding is no longer available. At the same time, costs for essential services such as courts, employee benefits, and public transportation continue to rise.
County leaders say this increase is meant to stabilize the budget and prevent even larger financial problems in the future.
What This Means for Homebuyers
If you are planning to buy a home in Delaware County, higher property taxes directly affect affordability.
Property taxes are part of your monthly housing payment. When taxes go up, monthly payments go up too. That can reduce how much home you qualify for and may force buyers to reconsider their price range or location.
At CM Mortgage, we regularly see how changes in property taxes impact mortgage approvals and monthly payments. Even relatively small increases can make a difference for first time buyers or anyone working within a tight budget. Understanding the full cost of homeownership before making an offer is more important than ever.
Higher taxes can also influence where buyers choose to look. When nearby counties offer similar homes with lower tax burdens, some buyers may decide to shop elsewhere.
What This Means for Current Residents
For current homeowners, especially those who have lived in Delaware County for many years, rising property taxes can feel overwhelming.
Fixed Income Households Feel the Pressure
Seniors and residents on fixed incomes are often hit the hardest. Many are already dealing with rising costs for groceries, utilities, and healthcare. Another tax increase can force difficult decisions about spending, savings, or even whether staying in their home is financially possible.
Growing Frustration in the Community
Residents have voiced concerns at county meetings and in public forums. Many feel frustrated by the pace and size of recent increases. Trust is strained, and homeowners want reassurance that these hikes will not continue year after year.
The Broader Impact on the Community
Property tax increases affect more than individual households.
When homeowners have less disposable income, they often spend less at local businesses. Fewer home improvement projects, fewer nights out, and less local shopping can slow economic activity throughout the county.
There are also long term concerns about affordability. Higher taxes can make it harder for young families, first time buyers, and lower income residents to live in the area. Over time, this can change the character and diversity of neighborhoods.
Looking Ahead
County officials say this increase is part of a plan to stabilize finances and avoid even larger problems in the future. While they believe it will lead to smaller increases down the road, many residents remain cautious and concerned.
For homeowners and buyers alike, planning ahead is essential.
Final Thoughts
Delaware County’s 19% property tax increase is more than a budget decision. It affects real people, real homes, and real financial choices.
If you are considering buying a home or want to understand how these changes may affect your long term affordability, speaking with a trusted mortgage professional can help clarify your options. At CM Mortgage, we are committed to helping buyers and homeowners navigate changing costs and make informed decisions with confidence.
