District of Columbia Sales Tax (2026)
District of Columbia's state sales tax is 6%, and the average combined rate with local taxes is 6%.
District of Columbia sales tax at a glance
| State rate | 6% |
|---|---|
| Average local rate | 0% |
| Average combined rate | 6% |
| Highest local add-on | 0% |
| Groceries | Exempt (prepared food 10%, soft drinks 8%) |
| Clothing | Taxable |
| Vehicles | Excise tax at titling instead of sales tax: 1%-11% of fair market value by vehicle weight and fuel economy (schedule effective 2025-02-17) |
Sales tax on common purchases (6%)
| Price | Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $1.20 | $21.20 |
| $100 | $6.00 | $106.00 |
| $500 | $30.00 | $530.00 |
| $1,000 | $60.00 | $1060.00 |
| $30,000 | $1800.00 | $31800.00 |
2026 changes
- 2026-10-01: scheduled increase to 7% postponed; OTR says the 6% rate remains through 2027-09-30
Sources: taxfoundation.org · otr.cfo.dc.gov · otr.cfo.dc.gov · dmv.dc.gov
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in District of Columbia?
The state rate is 6%. With local taxes, the average combined rate is 6%.
Are groceries taxed in District of Columbia?
Exempt (prepared food 10%, soft drinks 8%)
Is clothing taxed in District of Columbia?
Taxable
How are car purchases taxed in District of Columbia?
Excise tax at titling instead of sales tax: 1%-11% of fair market value by vehicle weight and fuel economy (schedule effective 2025-02-17)