How to Calculate Sales Tax
Sales tax is a percentage of the retail price of a product or service, collected by the seller and remitted to the government. The basic formula is: Sales Tax = Price × (Tax Rate / 100), and Total Price = Price + Sales Tax.
Simply enter the item’s price and your local tax rate in the calculator above to get instant results.
Understanding US Sales Tax Rates
In the United States, sales tax is not a single federal tax. Instead, it’s set by state and local governments, so rates vary widely. The table below shows the base state‑level sales tax rates (as of 2025). Many cities and counties add their own local taxes on top of these, which can push the total combined rate much higher. Always check your exact local rate for accurate calculations.
| State | Base Sales Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| California | 7.25% |
| Texas | 6.25% |
| New York | 4.00% |
| Florida | 6.00% |
| Illinois | 6.25% |
| Pennsylvania | 6.00% |
| Ohio | 5.75% |
| Georgia | 4.00% |
| North Carolina | 4.75% |
| Michigan | 6.00% |
| New Jersey | 6.625% |
Why Use a Sales Tax Calculator?
- Quick budgeting: Instantly see the full cost of a purchase.
- Shopping comparison: Compare prices before and after tax.
- Business owners: Accurately add tax to invoices or receipts.
- Travelers: Plan for different tax rates when visiting other states.
Our calculator works on desktop, tablet, and mobile – no downloads or sign‑ups required. Whether you’re figuring out a restaurant bill, an online order, or a big‑ticket item, this free tool has you covered.