Tennessee sales tax at a glance
Tennessee's typical combined rate of 9.61% ranks 2nd highest among the 50 states. Tennessee pairs one of the nation's highest sales taxes with no income tax — the state leans on the register instead of the paycheck.
What sales tax adds at the register
At the average combined rate of 9.61%:
| Price | Sales tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $25 | $2.40 | $27.40 |
| $100 | $9.61 | $109.61 |
| $500 | $48.05 | $548.05 |
| $2,000 | $192.20 | $2,192.20 |
Frequently asked questions
+What is the sales tax in Tennessee in 2026?
Tennessee's state sales tax is 7%. Cities, counties and districts add local taxes averaging 2.61% (population-weighted), for a typical combined rate of 9.61% — and up to 9.75% in the highest-tax localities. Tennessee pairs one of the nation's highest sales taxes with no income tax — the state leans on the register instead of the paycheck.
+How do I calculate Tennessee sales tax backwards from a total?
Divide the total by 1 plus the rate as a decimal. At 9.61%, a $109.61 total means a $100.00 price and $9.61 tax. Choose "Total after tax (reverse)" above to do it automatically.
+Do online orders charge Tennessee sales tax?
Yes. Since the Wayfair decision, large online sellers must collect Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
No. Local rates vary by city and county, from 7% (state only) up to about 9.75%. 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.