Sales Tax Calculator
Calculate sales tax on any purchase. Includes all 50 US state rates for reference.
$108.50
total with tax
Reverse Calculation (price includes tax)
If the total price is $100.00:
Formula
Calculates sales tax based on the item price and applicable tax rate.
Sales Tax = Price × Tax Rate (%)
Total = Price + Sales Tax
Worked Example
You buy a laptop for $1,000 in a state with 7% sales tax:
- Item price: $1,000
- Sales tax (7%): $70
- Total cost: $1,070
Common Questions
Do all items have sales tax?
No. Most states exempt groceries and prescription drugs; a few exempt clothing. Some items (alcohol, cars) have additional taxes. Check your state's rules.
Why are sales tax rates different by state?
States set their own rates (0–10%+). Some add local taxes too. Delaware has no sales tax; California reaches 8.625%+ with local additions.
What about online purchases?
Since 2018, online retailers must collect sales tax if they meet your state's economic-nexus sales threshold. Rates vary by destination, not seller.
Key Takeaways
- Sales tax varies widely by state—combined state and local rates range from 0% in Oregon to over 9% in Louisiana and Tennessee.
- Budget for sales tax on major purchases; it adds up quickly on expensive items.
- Some items (groceries, medicine) are exempt in most states—always ask at checkout.