Disclaimer: All rates and figures on this page are estimates for general informational purposes only and are not financial, tax, or legal advice. Sales tax rates change and vary by city, county, and the type of item purchased. Verify current rates with the California Department of Revenue before relying on these figures, and consult a qualified tax professional for specific guidance.
Calculate sales tax on any purchase in California. The state sales tax rate is 7.25%, and when combined with the average local rate of 1.57%, the total average in California comes to 8.82%. Actual rates vary by city and county.
California Sales Tax Rates
- State Rate
- 7.25%
- Avg Local Rate
- 1.57%
- Combined Average
- 8.82%
Quick Reference
California has the highest state income tax rate in the nation at 13.3%.
State income tax: 13.3% top rate
California Sales Tax Table
Quick reference for common purchase amounts at the 8.82% combined average rate:
| Purchase Price | Sales Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $10 | $0.88 | $10.88 |
| $25 | $2.21 | $27.20 |
| $50 | $4.41 | $54.41 |
| $100 | $8.82 | $108.82 |
| $250 | $22.05 | $272.05 |
| $500 | $44.10 | $544.10 |
| $1,000 | $88.20 | $1088.20 |
| $2,500 | $220.50 | $2720.50 |
| $5,000 | $441.00 | $5441.00 |
How California Sales Tax Works
Sales tax in California is collected at the point of sale on most tangible goods and some services. The state portion of 7.25% is uniform statewide, while local jurisdictions may add their own rates, averaging 1.57% across the state. Certain items like groceries and prescription medications may be exempt or taxed at reduced rates.
When budgeting in California, remember that sales tax affects your purchasing power. With a median home value of $773,200 and a property tax rate of 0.71%, understanding all taxes helps you make informed financial decisions.
California Sales Tax vs. the National Picture
At 8.82% combined (state plus average local), California's sales tax ranks 8th-highest nationally — above the national median of 7%.
The 7.25% state rate does most of the work in California, with local jurisdictions adding an average of 1.57%.
Combined state-plus-local averages nearby: Arizona (8.37%); Nevada (8.23%); Oregon (no sales tax); Washington (10.23%). Oregon charges no sales tax at all.