Sales Tax Calculator by Zip Code & City
Instantly calculate state and local sales tax for any purchase in the US.
Total Price with Tax
$542.50
Includes $42.50 in sales tax (8.50%)
- Purchase Amount $500.00
- State Tax $30.00
- Local Tax $12.50
- Total Price $542.50
How Sales Tax is Calculated in the United States
Unlike many countries with a uniform Value Added Tax (VAT), sales tax in the U.S. is imposed at state, county, and municipal levels. The total sales tax you pay varies significantly depending on your exact location:
- State Sales Tax: The baseline tax set by the state government, ranging from 0% in Oregon or Delaware to over 7% in California.
- Local & County Tax: Additional surcharges added by cities or special district authorities on top of the state rate.
Formula
Total Rate = State Rate + Local Rate
Tax Amount = Purchase × (Total Rate / 100)
Total Price = Purchase + Tax Amount
Tax Amount = Purchase × (Total Rate / 100)
Total Price = Purchase + Tax Amount
Sample Combined Sales Tax Rates (2026, estimates)
| State | State Rate | Avg. Local | Avg. Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 7.25% | 1.60% | 8.85% |
| Texas | 6.25% | 1.95% | 8.20% |
| New York | 4.00% | 4.53% | 8.53% |
| Florida | 6.00% | 1.00% | 7.00% |
| Oregon | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Five states do not impose a general state sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon (though Alaska permits local municipal taxes).
No. Most states exempt essential groceries, prescription medicine, and certain clothing items from standard sales tax.
A single Zip Code can span multiple tax jurisdictions (counties or cities), which is why local rates may vary even within neighboring streets.