Sales Tax for Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island (RI) Key Facts
State Sales Tax Rate
7%
Has State Sales Tax
Yes
Local Taxes May Apply
Yes
Tax Type
Sales and use tax
How This Calculator Works in Rhode Island
This calculator estimates the Rhode Island sales tax on your purchase amount using the state rate of 7%. Enter your purchase price to see the tax amount and total cost.
Rhode Island Overview
Rhode Island levies a 7% state sales tax — the highest in New England — with no local additions. Clothing under $250 is exempt (with tax applied only to the amount over $250), and groceries are tax-free. Restaurant meals face an additional 1% local meals tax in most municipalities.
How Rhode Island Compares
Rhode Island's sales tax rate of 7% compares to Massachusetts at 6.25% and Connecticut at 6.35%. Combined with local rates, the effective sales tax burden varies by location.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 6.25% | Massachusetts has a sales tax rate of 6.25%. |
| Connecticut | 6.35% | Connecticut has a sales tax rate of 6.35%. |
Rhode Island's sales tax rate of 7% compares to a national average of approximately 5.10%. This is above the national average.
Tips for Rhode Island Residents
- 1Rhode Island's 7% state sales tax rate is the highest in New England, with no local add-ons.
- 2Clothing items under $250 are exempt from Rhode Island sales tax — only the amount over $250 is taxed.
- 3Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.
- 4Rhode Island does not hold sales tax holidays.
- 5Prepared food and restaurant meals are taxed at 8% (7% sales tax + 1% local meals tax) in most municipalities.