Maria Pappas reports 32nd consecutive year of property tax increases in Cook County
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas reported that property taxes in the county have risen for the 32nd consecutive year. The 2025 tax bills, which total more than $19.9 billion, represent a 3.9% increase over the previous year. This rise outpaces the regional inflation rate of 3.1%, with homeowners bearing 80% of the new tax burden as residential property values grew faster than commercial real estate. Maria Pappas noted that the cumulative effect of local governments repeatedly raising taxes over the rate of inflation has resulted in a significant long-term increase. Over the last 30 years, property taxes have risen by 184%, nearly double the rate of inflation. The treasurer's office highlighted that while commercial properties saw smaller gains, residential properties in the north and northwest suburbs saw the sharpest spikes. Maria Pappas urged local governments to control spending and do more with less. She also noted that the delay in sending out bills due to technology issues has provided some relief to homeowners while creating cash flow challenges for local governments.