Use our tool to calculate exact sales tax. Since cities often add extra tax on top of the state rate, we allow you to edit the tax rate manually above for 100% accuracy.
USA Sales Tax Calculator (Free 2026 Tool)
Instantly calculate the total cost of your purchase — just choose a state or enter a tax rate manually. Fast, accurate, and perfect for shoppers & businesses.
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*Auto-filled from state. Manually edit if local tax differs.
What is Sales Tax?
Think of sales tax as a small "extra contribution" added to the price when you buy something. It’s a percentage of the price that goes to the state and local government to fund schools, roads, and emergency services.
How to Calculate Manually
Don't have a calculator? Here is the simple math:
- Find the Rate: Example: You buy an item for $50 with 8% tax.
- Convert %: Move the decimal two spots left (8% → 0.08).
- Multiply: $50 × 0.08 = $4.00 (Tax Amount).
- Add: $50 + $4.00 = $54.00 (Total).
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What Does 0% Sales Tax Actually Mean?
When you see "0% Sales Tax," it simply means the listed price is the final price. Unlike most US states where an extra 4% to 10% is added at checkout for state and local government fees, a 0% tax rate ensures you pay exactly what is on the price tag. No hidden math, no surprises.
Which US States Have No Sales Tax?
Shoppers often look for the "NOMAD" states to save money on big purchases. These are the 5 states currently offering 0% statewide sales tax:
- 📍 New Hampshire
- 📍 Oregon
- 📍 Montana
- 📍 Alaska (Mostly)
- 📍 Delaware
Real-World Savings Example
Let’s say you are buying a high-end camera lens for $2,000.
Average State (NY, CA, TX)
Product Price: $2,000.00
Avg Tax (~8%): + $160.00
You Pay:
$2,160.00
Tax-Free State (DE, OR)
Product Price: $2,000.00
State Tax: $0.00
You Pay:
$2,000.00
Is there a catch?
While these states are a paradise for shoppers, the local governments still need revenue. They typically balance the 0% sales tax by having higher property taxes or income taxes for residents. However, if you are just visiting or buying online (depending on nexus laws), you simply enjoy the savings.
Quick Reference: Average State Rates
Note: Actual rates vary by city.
| State | Avg Rate Range |
|---|---|
| California | 7.25% - 10.75% |
| Texas | 6.25% - 8.25% |
| Florida | 6.00% - 8.00% |
| New York | 4.00% - 8.875% |
| Illinois | 6.25% - 11.00% |
💡 Fun Fact: Oregon, Montana, Delaware, and New Hampshire have 0% Sales Tax!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the tax rate different in every city?
In the USA, you have a "State Tax" and often a "Local/City Tax" on top of it. For example, the state might charge 6%, but your specific city adds another 2% for local projects. That’s why the total is 8%.
Do I pay sales tax on online purchases?
Yes, in most cases. If the online store has a presence in your state or sells a significant amount of goods there, they are required by law to collect sales tax from you.
Is food taxed?
It depends. Groceries (uncooked food) are often tax-free or taxed at a very low rate. However, prepared food (like restaurant meals or hot takeout) is almost always taxed fully.