California sales tax at a glance
California's typical combined rate of 9.03% ranks 7th highest among the 50 states. California's 7.25% is the highest state base rate; it already includes a mandatory 1.25% statewide local add-on. District taxes push some cities above 10%.
What sales tax adds at the register
At the average combined rate of 9.03%:
| Price | Sales tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $25 | $2.26 | $27.26 |
| $100 | $9.03 | $109.03 |
| $500 | $45.15 | $545.15 |
| $2,000 | $180.60 | $2,180.60 |
Frequently asked questions
+What is the sales tax in California in 2026?
California's state sales tax is 7.25%. Cities, counties and districts add local taxes averaging 1.78% (population-weighted), for a typical combined rate of 9.03% — and up to 12.5% in the highest-tax localities. California's 7.25% is the highest state base rate; it already includes a mandatory 1.25% statewide local add-on. District taxes push some cities above 10%.
+How do I calculate California sales tax backwards from a total?
Divide the total by 1 plus the rate as a decimal. At 9.03%, a $109.03 total means a $100.00 price and $9.03 tax. Choose "Total after tax (reverse)" above to do it automatically.
+Do online orders charge California sales tax?
Yes. Since the Wayfair decision, large online sellers must collect California sales tax based on your delivery address — the same state and local rate you'd pay in a store.
+Is the rate the same everywhere in California?
No. Local rates vary by city and county, from 7.25% (state only) up to about 12.5%. Use a recent receipt or your state revenue department's lookup for your exact address.
Rates as of July 1, 2026, from state revenue departments compiled by the Tax Foundation; local averages are population-weighted. Product exemptions (groceries, clothing, medicine) vary by state. Estimates only — see our terms.