Sales Tax for West Virginia (2026)
West Virginia (WV) Key Facts
State Sales Tax Rate
6%
Has State Sales Tax
Yes
Local Taxes May Apply
Yes
Tax Type
Sales and use tax
How This Calculator Works in West Virginia
This calculator estimates the West Virginia sales tax on your purchase amount using the state rate of 6%. Enter your purchase price to see the tax amount and total cost.
West Virginia Overview
West Virginia charges a flat 6% state sales tax with no local additions, keeping the system straightforward statewide. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt, and the state holds a generous back-to-school sales tax holiday in August covering clothing, supplies, computers, and sports equipment.
How West Virginia Compares
West Virginia's sales tax rate of 6% compares to Virginia at 5.3% and Pennsylvania at 6%. Combined with local rates, the effective sales tax burden varies by location.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 5.3% | Virginia has a sales tax rate of 5.3%. |
| Pennsylvania | 6% | Pennsylvania has a sales tax rate of 6%. |
| Ohio | 5.75% | Ohio has a sales tax rate of 5.75%. |
West Virginia's sales tax rate of 6% compares to a national average of approximately 5.10%. This is above the national average.
Tips for West Virginia Residents
- 1West Virginia's 6% sales tax is a flat statewide rate with no local add-ons — one of the simpler systems in the region.
- 2Groceries are exempt from West Virginia sales tax (this changed in recent years, as they were previously taxed).
- 3West Virginia holds a back-to-school sales tax holiday in August for clothing, school supplies, and computers.
- 4Prescription drugs are exempt, but over-the-counter medications are taxable.
- 5West Virginia taxes most services related to tangible personal property, including repairs and maintenance.