Jefferson County homeowners face sharp tax increases after reassessments

Some homeowners in Jefferson County say updated property values are leading to unexpected spikes in monthly housing costs.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Homes in Jefferson County are reassessed every four years, and for many residents, this year’s updated values are bringing significant sticker shock.

While many homeowners have watched neighbors sell properties above asking price or seen bidding wars in their communities, those rising home values are now translating into higher property tax assessments.

Tom Keith said his home’s assessed value increased by more than 32%.

“My assessment went up 32.3%,” Keith said.

Keith had expected a rise of around 25%, but instead saw his home’s value jump from $354,000 to $469,000. He estimates the increase could raise his monthly mortgage payment by about $200.

“When the PVA came out and said those could be as high as 20% to 25%, OK,” Keith said. “But to me, 33% and 50% seems excessive.”

All homes in Jefferson County undergo reassessment once every four years. Jefferson County Property Valuation Administrator Colleen Younger said the increases are driven by rising market values.

“Value is climbing, and the reason it is climbing is because median values are continuing,” Younger said.

This year’s reassessment area covers a large portion of eastern Jefferson County. Younger said it includes MLS Areas 8 and 9, such as Middletown, Anchorage, Lyndon, and several nearby home rule cities.

“It’s a very large area,” Younger said.

Keith said his neighborhood has been particularly affected, with one neighbor reporting a 50% increase and another seeing a 51% jump.

Keith, who has lived in the area for nearly six years, said he appreciates rising property values—but not the scale of the increase.

“Don’t get me wrong. I am happy that my property value is going up,” Keith said. “I’m not happy with the excessive amount of the assessment.”

Younger noted that about 95% of homeowners now file appeals online through the PVA website, where they can submit documents and supporting evidence.

“Our appeal window is open Monday through Friday for assistance at the outer locations through May 18th,” she said. “We also have two evening events. We’re doing one at Lyndon City Hall and one at Middletown City Hall on May 9 and May 16.”

Keith said he has already filed an appeal and expects the process to take about 10 days.

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