Arkansas Sales Tax (2026)
Arkansas's state sales tax is 6.5%, and the average combined rate with local taxes is 9.48%.
Arkansas sales tax at a glance
| State rate | 6.5% |
|---|---|
| Average local rate | 2.98% |
| Average combined rate | 9.48% |
| Highest local add-on | 6.13% |
| Groceries | Exempt from state tax since 2026-01-01 (was 0.125%); city and county taxes still apply |
| Clothing | Taxable (annual August holiday: clothing/footwear under $100 per item) |
| Vehicles | New vehicles 6.5%; used under $4,000 no state tax, $4,000-$9,999 at 3.5% state; local tax only on the first $2,500 of a highway vehicle |
Sales tax on common purchases (9.48%)
| Price | Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $1.90 | $21.90 |
| $100 | $9.48 | $109.48 |
| $500 | $47.40 | $547.40 |
| $1,000 | $94.80 | $1094.80 |
| $30,000 | $2844.00 | $32844.00 |
2026 changes
- 2026-01-01: state reduced food rate 0.125% → 0% (Act 1008 of 2025); local food taxes continue
Sources: taxfoundation.org · dfa.arkansas.gov · dfa.arkansas.gov · dfa.arkansas.gov
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in Arkansas?
The state rate is 6.5%. With local taxes, the average combined rate is 9.48%, and local add-ons can reach 6.13%.
Are groceries taxed in Arkansas?
Exempt from state tax since 2026-01-01 (was 0.125%); city and county taxes still apply
Is clothing taxed in Arkansas?
Taxable (annual August holiday: clothing/footwear under $100 per item)
How are car purchases taxed in Arkansas?
New vehicles 6.5%; used under $4,000 no state tax, $4,000-$9,999 at 3.5% state; local tax only on the first $2,500 of a highway vehicle