How Property Tax Works
St. Francois County, Missouri operates on an annual property tax system that funds essential local services including schools, roads, bridges, and municipal operations. Property taxes are assessed annually based on the assessed value of real estate, which is determined by the County Assessor's Office. The assessment is typically a percentage of the property's fair market value as of January 1st each year.
Actual tax rates in St. Francois County vary significantly by location due to the presence of multiple special taxing districts, including school districts, fire protection districts, road districts, and municipalities like Farmington and Park Hills. While the county's road and bridge levy for 2025 is 0.228%, total effective tax rates typically range from 0.8% to 1.2% when all local taxing jurisdictions are combined. Property owners should expect their specific rate to depend on which city, school district, and special districts serve their property location.
Property tax bills are due annually by December 31st, and the county offers various payment options including online payments, mail, and in-person at the Collector's Office. Property owners may be eligible for certain tax credits that require separate applications and have specific deadlines.