Sales Tax Calculator
Calculate how much sales tax you'll pay on any purchase. Enter the purchase price and your local tax rate to see the tax amount and total price instantly.
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Formula
Tax = Price × Tax Rate ÷ 100
Multiply the pre-tax price by the tax rate (as a percentage) and divide by 100 to get the tax amount. Add this to the original price for the total. To work backwards from a tax-included price, divide by (1 + rate/100).
How to use the Sales Tax Calculator
- 1
Enter your pre-tax price
Value should be in $.
- 2
Enter your tax rate
Value should be in %.
- 3
Read your results instantly
Results update in real time as you type.
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Sales tax rates across the US
Sales tax in the United States varies dramatically by state and often by county and city. Five states have no state sales tax: Oregon, Montana, New Hampshire, Delaware, and Alaska (though some Alaskan localities do charge sales tax).
The highest combined rates are found in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Arkansas — often exceeding 10% when state and local rates combine. California's statewide rate is 7.25%, but many cities push it above 10%.
What is typically taxable?
Most tangible goods are subject to sales tax, but many exemptions exist. Groceries (food for home consumption) are exempt in 32 states. Prescription medications are exempt in all 50 states. Clothing is exempt in several states including Pennsylvania and New York (for purchases under $110).
Digital goods and services are increasingly taxed, with many states updating their laws in recent years to capture e-commerce.
Tips & Insights
Use the reverse calculation for budgeting
If you have a $500 budget including tax at 8.5%, your pre-tax spending limit is $500 ÷ 1.085 = $460.83. Plan purchases with after-tax totals in mind.
Worked Examples
Electronics purchase
Sales tax: $80.66. Total cost: $929.66. Always check the combined rate for your specific county — it often differs from the state base rate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average sales tax in the US?
The average combined state and local sales tax rate in the US is around 7.12%, but it varies significantly by state and locality.
Is sales tax charged on services?
Service taxation varies by state. Most states don't tax services, but some states (like Hawaii, New Mexico, and South Dakota) tax most services broadly.
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