Washington Sales Tax (2026)
Washington's state sales tax is 6.5%, and the average combined rate with local taxes is 9.57%.
Washington sales tax at a glance
| State rate | 6.5% |
|---|---|
| Average local rate | 3.07% |
| Average combined rate | 9.57% |
| Highest local add-on | 4.2% |
| Groceries | Exempt |
| Clothing | Taxable |
| Vehicles | Additional 0.5% motor vehicle sales tax on top of state + local rate (was 0.3% before 2026-01-01) |
Sales tax on common purchases (9.57%)
| Price | Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $1.91 | $21.91 |
| $100 | $9.57 | $109.57 |
| $500 | $47.85 | $547.85 |
| $1,000 | $95.70 | $1095.70 |
| $30,000 | $2871.00 | $32871.00 |
2026 changes
- 2026-01-01: additional motor vehicle sales/use tax 0.3% → 0.5% (SB 5801)
- 2026-07-01: some services taxed since 2025-10-01 (ESSB 5814) narrowed by ESSB 6346
Sources: taxfoundation.org · dor.wa.gov · dor.wa.gov · dor.wa.gov
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in Washington?
The state rate is 6.5%. With local taxes, the average combined rate is 9.57%, and local add-ons can reach 4.2%.
Are groceries taxed in Washington?
Exempt
Is clothing taxed in Washington?
Taxable
How are car purchases taxed in Washington?
Additional 0.5% motor vehicle sales tax on top of state + local rate (was 0.3% before 2026-01-01)