North Carolina sales tax at a glance
North Carolina's typical combined rate of 7.1% ranks 22th highest among the 50 states.
What sales tax adds at the register
At the average combined rate of 7.1%:
| Price | Sales tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $25 | $1.78 | $26.78 |
| $100 | $7.10 | $107.10 |
| $500 | $35.50 | $535.50 |
| $2,000 | $142.00 | $2,142.00 |
Frequently asked questions
+What is the sales tax in North Carolina in 2026?
North Carolina's state sales tax is 4.75%. Cities, counties and districts add local taxes averaging 2.35% (population-weighted), for a typical combined rate of 7.1% — and up to 8.25% in the highest-tax localities.
+How do I calculate North Carolina sales tax backwards from a total?
Divide the total by 1 plus the rate as a decimal. At 7.1%, a $107.10 total means a $100.00 price and $7.10 tax. Choose "Total after tax (reverse)" above to do it automatically.
+Do online orders charge North Carolina sales tax?
Yes. Since the Wayfair decision, large online sellers must collect North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
No. Local rates vary by city and county, from 4.75% (state only) up to about 8.25%. 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.