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Free South Carolina Sales Tax Calculator

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 South 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 South Carolina. The state sales tax rate is 6%, and when combined with the average local rate of 1.44%, the total average in South Carolina comes to 7.44%. Actual rates vary by city and county.

South Carolina Sales Tax Rates

State Rate
6%
Avg Local Rate
1.44%
Combined Average
7.44%

Quick Reference

South Carolina offers generous tax breaks for retirees.

State income tax: 6.2% top rate

South Carolina Sales Tax Table

Quick reference for common purchase amounts at the 7.44% combined average rate:

Purchase Price Sales Tax Total
$10 $0.74 $10.74
$25 $1.86 $26.86
$50 $3.72 $53.72
$100 $7.44 $107.44
$250 $18.60 $268.60
$500 $37.20 $537.20
$1,000 $74.40 $1074.40
$2,500 $186.00 $2686.00
$5,000 $372.00 $5372.00

How South Carolina Sales Tax Works

Sales tax in South Carolina is collected at the point of sale on most tangible goods and some services. The state portion of 6% is uniform statewide, while local jurisdictions may add their own rates, averaging 1.44% across the state. Certain items like groceries and prescription medications may be exempt or taxed at reduced rates.

When budgeting in South Carolina, remember that sales tax affects your purchasing power. With a median home value of $249,100 and a property tax rate of 0.56%, understanding all taxes helps you make informed financial decisions.

South Carolina Sales Tax vs. the National Picture

At 7.44% combined (state plus average local), South Carolina's sales tax ranks 18th-highest nationally — above the national median of 7%.

The 6% state rate does most of the work in South Carolina, with local jurisdictions adding an average of 1.44%.

Combined state-plus-local averages nearby: Georgia (7.37%); North Carolina (6.97%). North Carolina has the lowest nearby rate at 6.97%.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sales tax rate in South Carolina? +
The South Carolina state sales tax rate is 6%. With the average local sales tax of 1.44%, the combined rate is approximately 7.44%. Actual rates vary by city and county — some localities charge higher or lower local rates.
How do I calculate South Carolina sales tax on a purchase? +
Multiply the pre-tax price by the applicable tax rate as a decimal. For example, on a $100 purchase at the combined 7.44% rate: $100 x 0.0744 = $7.44 in tax, for a total of $107.44. Our calculator handles this automatically for any amount.
Are groceries taxed in South Carolina? +
Grocery taxation varies by state. In South Carolina, the rules depend on the type of food item. Generally, unprepared food for home consumption may be taxed at a reduced rate or exempt, while prepared meals and restaurant food are subject to the full 7.44% combined rate. Check your local jurisdiction for specific exemptions.
Does South Carolina charge sales tax on online purchases? +
Yes. Since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling in South Dakota v. Wayfair, South Carolina requires out-of-state online retailers that meet economic nexus thresholds to collect and remit South Carolina sales tax. This means most online purchases are subject to the same 6% state rate plus applicable local taxes.
What items are exempt from South Carolina sales tax? +
Common exemptions in most states include prescription medications, medical devices, and certain essential services. South Carolina may also exempt specific categories like clothing, agricultural supplies, or manufacturing equipment. During designated sales tax holidays, additional items may be temporarily exempt. Check South Carolina's Department of Revenue for the current exemption list.
How much do local governments add to South Carolina sales tax? +
On average, cities and counties add 1.44% on top of the 6% state rate, bringing the typical combined rate to 7.44%. Your exact rate depends on where the purchase is made.
Is South Carolina a high sales tax state? +
South Carolina's 7.44% combined average ranks 18th-highest nationally, above the national median of 7%. For the full picture, the state also levies a graduated income tax topping out at 6.2%.
How does South Carolina sales tax compare with neighboring states? +
Rates change the moment you cross a border. Combined state-plus-local averages for nearby states: Georgia (7.37%); North Carolina (6.97%) — versus 7.44% in South Carolina. North Carolina is the cheapest nearby option at 6.97%.

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