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How to use the Sales Tax Calculator
- 1Choose your country and state or province; the current rate fills in automatically.
- 2Pick whether to add tax to a price or remove tax from a total that already includes it.
- 3Enter the amount to see the tax, the total and the breakdown (state and local, or GST and PST).
California sales tax rates in 2026
California charges a 7.25% state sales tax, and local governments add an average of 1.74% (up to 5.25%), for an average combined rate of 8.99%. That is the 7th highest combined rate of the 50 states and DC.
California's 7.25% base rate includes a 1% statewide local rate; district taxes add more in many cities.
| Rate | Percent |
|---|---|
| State sales tax | 7.25% |
| Average local sales tax | 1.74% |
| Highest local sales tax | 5.25% |
| Average combined rate | 8.99% |
California sales tax on common amounts
Using the average combined rate of 8.99%. Your exact total depends on your city and county.
| Price | Sales tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $10.00 | $0.90 | $10.90 |
| $25.00 | $2.25 | $27.25 |
| $50.00 | $4.50 | $54.50 |
| $100.00 | $8.99 | $108.99 |
| $250.00 | $22.48 | $272.48 |
| $500.00 | $44.95 | $544.95 |
| $1,000.00 | $89.90 | $1,089.90 |
| $5,000.00 | $449.50 | $5,449.50 |
California vs neighboring states
Shoppers near a state line often compare rates. Note that you may owe use tax in your home state on large purchases made elsewhere, such as cars.
| State | State rate | Avg. combined rate |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | 0% | 0% |
| Nevada | 6.85% | 8.24% |
| Arizona | 5.6% | 8.52% |
| California ★ | 7.25% | 8.99% |
| Washington | 6.5% | 9.51% |
Sales tax by state and province
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in California?
The California state sales tax rate is 7.25%. Adding the average local rate of 1.74% gives an average combined rate of 8.99% in 2026; local rates go up to 5.25%.
How much is the sales tax on $100 in California?
At the average combined rate of 8.99%, the tax on $100 is $8.99, for a total of $108.99. At the state rate alone it would be $7.25.
Are groceries taxed?
Many states exempt groceries and prescription medicine or tax them at a lower rate, while prepared food and restaurant meals are usually taxed. Check your state revenue department for exempt items.
How current are these rates?
State and average local rates are from the Tax Foundation's 2026 report (rates as of January 1, 2026), reviewed October 2026. Local rates can change during the year.