Sales Tax for North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina (NC) Key Facts
State Sales Tax Rate
4.75%
Has State Sales Tax
Yes
Local Taxes May Apply
Yes
Tax Type
Sales and use tax
How This Calculator Works in North Carolina
This calculator estimates the North Carolina sales tax on your purchase amount using the state rate of 4.75%. Enter your purchase price to see the tax amount and total cost.
North Carolina Overview
North Carolina charges a 4.75% state sales tax plus 2-2.75% in county taxes, bringing most combined rates to 6.75-7.5%. Groceries are taxed at a reduced 2% with no local tax, providing meaningful savings on food. The state holds an annual back-to-school tax holiday in August.
How North Carolina Compares
North Carolina's sales tax rate of 4.75% compares to South Carolina at 6% and Virginia at 5.3%. Combined with local rates, the effective sales tax burden varies by location.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 6% | South Carolina has a sales tax rate of 6%. |
| Virginia | 5.3% | Virginia has a sales tax rate of 5.3%. |
| Tennessee | 7% | Tennessee has a sales tax rate of 7%. |
North Carolina's sales tax rate of 4.75% compares to a national average of approximately 5.10%. This is below the national average.
Tips for North Carolina Residents
- 1North Carolina's 4.75% state rate combines with a mandatory 2% county rate and optional additional local taxes, bringing most areas to 6.75-7.5%.
- 2Groceries are taxed at a reduced 2% state rate in North Carolina (no local taxes on food), significantly lower than the general rate.
- 3North Carolina holds a sales tax holiday in August for school supplies, clothing, and computers.
- 4Prescription drugs are exempt from sales tax, but over-the-counter medications are taxable.
- 5North Carolina does not allow cities to levy their own sales taxes — only counties can add the local portion.