How is the responsibility for taxing and spending divided between the State and local governments in New Jersey?

State government and local governments share responsibilities and resources. Both the State and local governments (municipalities, counties and school districts) must provide a variety of important public services. But the ability of each of these levels of government differs greatly.


Unlike the State, local governments have few revenue options available to pay for services. This has resulted in the continued heavy reliance on property taxation as the major source of revenue for municipalities, counties and school districts. Because the value of property varies widely from municipality to municipality, many local governments are unable to meet local service needs.


View our Taxpayer dollar explanation document (PDF).

Show All Answers

1. Why is talking about tax relief important?
2. How is the responsibility for taxing and spending divided between the State and local governments in New Jersey?
3. Why do New Jersey local governments need funding from the State?
4. Why do you call it “municipal property tax relief” and not “State aid”?
5. What about user fees?
6. That leaves property taxes and property tax relief funding from the State. What is the deal with State funding?
7. How does New Jersey’s property tax burden compare with other States?
8. Can cutting local budgets reduce property taxes?
9. Can local governments hold down the costs of public services?
10. How can the State provide needed relief to local governments and, more importantly, to property taxpayers?