Sales Tax for Washington (2026)
Washington (WA) Key Facts
State Sales Tax Rate
6.5%
Has State Sales Tax
Yes
Local Taxes May Apply
Yes
Tax Type
Sales and use tax
How This Calculator Works in Washington
This calculator estimates the Washington sales tax on your purchase amount using the state rate of 6.5%. Enter your purchase price to see the tax amount and total cost.
Washington Overview
Washington imposes a 6.5% state sales tax with local additions pushing combined rates above 10.5% in Seattle. With no state income tax, sales tax is Washington's primary revenue source, which is why rates are high and unlikely to decrease. Groceries are exempt, and many residents shop across the border in tax-free Oregon.
How Washington Compares
Washington's sales tax rate of 6.5% compares to Oregon at 0% and Idaho at 6%. 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%. |
| Idaho | 6% | Idaho has a sales tax rate of 6%. |
Washington's sales tax rate of 6.5% compares to a national average of approximately 5.10%. This is above the national average.
Tips for Washington Residents
- 1Washington's 6.5% state rate plus local taxes can push combined rates above 10.5% — Seattle's combined rate is about 10.35%.
- 2Washington has no state income tax, making sales tax its largest revenue source alongside the B&O (Business & Occupation) tax.
- 3Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt from Washington sales tax.
- 4Washington does not hold statewide sales tax holidays.
- 5Cross-border shopping in Oregon (0% sales tax) is very popular for Washington residents, especially in the Portland-Vancouver metro area.