Why does the US use sales tax instead of VAT?

The US has historically used a retail sales tax levied at the point of sale, collected by individual states and localities. VAT is a European-style system that taxes value added at each production stage. The US has never adopted a federal VAT.

Are these rates exact?

The rates shown are the average combined rate (state rate plus average local rate) as published by the Tax Foundation. Actual rates can vary by city or county. Always confirm with your local tax authority for precise compliance.

Which states have no sales tax?

Five states have no state sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. Note that some Alaskan localities do impose a local sales tax.

Does this calculator include local sales tax?

Yes. The rates used are average combined rates that include both the state-level rate and the average local (city/county) rate, giving a more realistic estimate of what you will actually pay.

Is sales tax applied to all purchases?

No. Many states exempt certain goods like groceries, prescription drugs, and clothing. This calculator gives a general estimate; your actual tax may differ based on what you are buying.

How do I calculate sales tax manually?

Multiply the pre-tax price by the tax rate (as a decimal). For example, $100 at a 7% rate: $100 × 0.07 = $7.00 tax, for a total of $107.00.

USA Sales Tax Calculator

Name: USA Sales Tax Calculator
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter a price and choose a US state to instantly calculate sales tax and the total amount due.

Sales Tax Calculator

Pre-Tax Price (USD)

US State

All 50 States — Sales Tax Rates

Average combined rate

State	State Rate	Avg. Local	Combined

Source: Tax Foundation. Rates are averages; actual local rates vary by city/county.

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Summary

Enter a price and choose a US state to instantly calculate sales tax and the total amount due.

How it works

Enter the pre-tax price of your item or service.
Select the US state where the purchase is made.
The tool applies the state's average combined sales tax rate (state + average local).
Results display the tax amount and the total price side by side.
Use the reference table below to browse rates for all 50 states.

Use cases

Estimate the total cost before making an online or in-store purchase.
Compare tax costs when buying in different US states.
Help travelers and international shoppers understand US pricing.
Quick reference for small business owners collecting sales tax.
Verify invoice totals when the tax line seems off.
Plan a budget for multi-state purchases or business expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2026-05-23 · Reviewed by Nham Vu