Sales Tax for California (2026)
California (CA) Key Facts
State Sales Tax Rate
7.25%
Has State Sales Tax
Yes
Local Taxes May Apply
Yes
Tax Type
Sales and use tax
How This Calculator Works in California
This calculator estimates the California sales tax on your purchase amount using the state rate of 7.25%. Enter your purchase price to see the tax amount and total cost.
California Overview
California has the highest state-level sales tax rate in the nation at 7.25%, with local district taxes pushing combined rates as high as 10.75%. Groceries are exempt, but clothing is fully taxable, and the state does not offer any sales tax holidays throughout the year.
How California Compares
California's sales tax rate of 7.25% compares to Oregon at 0% and Nevada at 6.85%. Combined with local rates, the effective sales tax burden varies by location.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | 0% | Oregon has a sales tax rate of 0%. |
| Nevada | 6.85% | Nevada has a sales tax rate of 6.85%. |
| Arizona | 5.6% | Arizona has a sales tax rate of 5.6%. |
California's sales tax rate of 7.25% compares to a national average of approximately 5.10%. This is above the national average.
Tips for California Residents
- 1California's 7.25% base rate is the highest state sales tax rate in the country, and with local add-ons, combined rates can reach 10.75%.
- 2Groceries are exempt from California sales tax, but prepared food, hot beverages, and food sold in restaurants are fully taxable.
- 3California does not hold statewide sales tax holidays — the legislature has repeatedly declined to enact them.
- 4Clothing is fully taxable in California, unlike states such as New York or Pennsylvania that exempt it.
- 5If you're buying a vehicle, California charges the full combined sales tax rate, plus a separate vehicle license fee based on the car's value.