Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Arizona Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
5.60%
Average combined (state + local)
8.43%
Category exemptions
| Category | Rule | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Exempt | Unprepared food at grocery stores. |
| Clothing | Taxed (full rate) | Everyday apparel and footwear. |
| Prescription drugs | Exempt | Prescribed medications dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. |
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $5.60
- Combined (state + average local): $8.43
- Total with combined tax: $108.43
Major cities in Arizona
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 8.60% | +0.17% |
| Tucson | 8.70% | +0.27% |
| Mesa | 8.35% | -0.08% |
| Scottsdale | 8.05% | -0.38% |
| Chandler | 7.80% | -0.63% |
Border shopping — vs neighboring states
For larger purchases, driving to a neighbor with lower combined rate can save real money.
| State | State rate | Avg combined | vs AZ | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona (current) | 5.60% | 8.43% | — | — |
| Utah | 4.85% | 7.44% | -0.99% | $9.90 |
| New Mexico | 4.88% | 7.62% | -0.81% | $8.10 |
| Colorado | 2.90% | 7.82% | -0.61% | $6.10 |
| Nevada | 6.85% | 8.23% | -0.20% | $2.00 |
| California | 7.25% | 8.82% | +0.39% | — |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Arizona?
- Arizona levies a 5.60% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 8.43%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Arizona tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Arizona. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Arizona have a sales tax holiday?
- Arizona does not run an annual sales tax holiday. For tax-free shopping, consider neighboring states with holidays, or use online retailers based in no-sales-tax states (OR, MT, NH, DE) — though use tax may still apply on out-of-state purchases.
- Who collects sales tax in Arizona?
- The Arizona Department of Revenue collects state-level sales tax; counties and cities add local rates that are remitted through the same return. Out-of-state sellers shipping to Arizona must collect if they exceed economic nexus thresholds (typically $100k in sales or 200 transactions).
Full data sources and formulas: /sources.
Estimate only — not tax advice. Local rates vary by city and county — your actual rate at the register may differ from the state average. Category-specific exemptions (groceries, prescription drugs, clothing) and tax holidays change by year; check the Arizona DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy