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 North Carolina Department of Revenue before relying on these figures, and consult a qualified tax professional for specific guidance.
Calculate sales tax on any purchase in North Carolina. The state sales tax rate is 4.75%, and when combined with the average local rate of 2.22%, the total average in North Carolina comes to 6.97%. Actual rates vary by city and county.
North Carolina Sales Tax Rates
- State Rate
- 4.75%
- Avg Local Rate
- 2.22%
- Combined Average
- 6.97%
Quick Reference
North Carolina has reduced its flat income tax from 5.25% targeting 3.99% by 2027.
State income tax: 4.25% top rate
How North Carolina's Sales Tax Stacks Up
At 6.97% combined (state plus average local), North Carolina's sales tax ranks 27th-highest nationally — right at the national median of 7%.
The 4.75% state rate does most of the work in North Carolina, with local jurisdictions adding an average of 2.22%.
Combined state-plus-local averages nearby: Georgia (7.37%); South Carolina (7.44%); Tennessee (9.55%); Virginia (4.73%). Virginia has the lowest nearby rate at 4.73%.
North Carolina Sales Tax Table
Quick reference for common purchase amounts at the 6.97% combined average rate:
| Purchase Price | Sales Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $10 | $0.70 | $10.70 |
| $25 | $1.74 | $26.74 |
| $50 | $3.48 | $53.48 |
| $100 | $6.97 | $106.97 |
| $250 | $17.43 | $267.43 |
| $500 | $34.85 | $534.85 |
| $1,000 | $69.70 | $1069.70 |
| $2,500 | $174.25 | $2674.25 |
| $5,000 | $348.50 | $5348.50 |
Understanding North Carolina Sales Tax
Sales tax in North Carolina is collected at the point of sale on most tangible goods and some services. The state portion of 4.75% is uniform statewide, while local jurisdictions may add their own rates, averaging 2.22% across the state. Certain items like groceries and prescription medications may be exempt or taxed at reduced rates.
When budgeting in North Carolina, remember that sales tax affects your purchasing power. With a median home value of $296,200 and a property tax rate of 0.78%, understanding all taxes helps you make informed financial decisions.