Sales Tax for Maine (2026)
Maine (ME) Key Facts
State Sales Tax Rate
5.5%
Has State Sales Tax
Yes
Local Taxes May Apply
Yes
Tax Type
Sales and use tax
How This Calculator Works in Maine
This calculator estimates the Maine sales tax on your purchase amount using the state rate of 5.5%. Enter your purchase price to see the tax amount and total cost.
Maine Overview
Maine imposes a 5.5% state sales tax with no local add-ons, keeping rates uniform across the state. Groceries are exempt, but prepared food is taxed at 8% and lodging at 9%, reflecting the state's tourism-based revenue strategy. The proximity to tax-free New Hampshire drives significant cross-border shopping.
How Maine Compares
Maine's sales tax rate of 5.5% compares to New Hampshire at 0% and Vermont at 6%. Combined with local rates, the effective sales tax burden varies by location.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | 0% | New Hampshire has a sales tax rate of 0%. |
| Vermont | 6% | Vermont has a sales tax rate of 6%. |
| Massachusetts | 6.25% | Massachusetts has a sales tax rate of 6.25%. |
Maine's sales tax rate of 5.5% compares to a national average of approximately 5.10%. This is above the national average.
Tips for Maine Residents
- 1Maine's 5.5% sales tax rate is uniform statewide with no local add-ons.
- 2Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt from Maine sales tax.
- 3Maine does not hold any sales tax holidays.
- 4Prepared food and restaurant meals in Maine are taxed at 8%, higher than the standard 5.5% rate.
- 5Lodging in Maine is taxed at 9%, reflecting the state's significant tourism economy.