Every layer that applies to a Chicago sale, added up.
Verified September 21, 2026 · city ordinance and state source checked
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Who pays in Chicago
Split. The buyer pays $3.75 per $500 and the seller pays $1.50 per $500.
What catches people out
Chicago totals $6.00 per $500 once the state and county are added, which is 1.2 percent. Buyers aged 65 or older who live in the property for at least a year can claim a refund of the CTA portion when the price is $250,000 or less. Transfers under $500 are exempt.
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Sources
City of Chicago Department of Finance, Real Property Transfer Tax “$5.25 per $500.00 of the transfer price, or fraction thereof ... In general, The Buyer is responsible for $3.75 and the Seller is responsible for $1.50. ... a refund for the CTA portion of tax for transferees who are age 65 years or older, who occupy purchased property as their personal dwelling for at least one year following the transfer, if the transfer price is $250,000 or less.”