Hawaii sales tax at a glance
Hawaii's typical combined rate of 4.5% ranks 45th highest among the 50 states. Hawaii levies a general excise tax (GET) on businesses rather than a true sales tax; it applies to nearly everything, including services, and is usually passed to customers.
What sales tax adds at the register
At the average combined rate of 4.5%:
| Price | Sales tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $25 | $1.13 | $26.13 |
| $100 | $4.50 | $104.50 |
| $500 | $22.50 | $522.50 |
| $2,000 | $90.00 | $2,090.00 |
Frequently asked questions
+What is the sales tax in Hawaii in 2026?
Hawaii's state sales tax is 4%. Cities, counties and districts add local taxes averaging 0.5% (population-weighted), for a typical combined rate of 4.5% — and up to 4.5% in the highest-tax localities. Hawaii levies a general excise tax (GET) on businesses rather than a true sales tax; it applies to nearly everything, including services, and is usually passed to customers.
+How do I calculate Hawaii sales tax backwards from a total?
Divide the total by 1 plus the rate as a decimal. At 4.5%, a $104.50 total means a $100.00 price and $4.50 tax. Choose "Total after tax (reverse)" above to do it automatically.
+Do online orders charge Hawaii sales tax?
Yes. Since the Wayfair decision, large online sellers must collect Hawaii 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 Hawaii?
No. Local rates vary by city and county, from 4% (state only) up to about 4.5%. 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.