Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Connecticut Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
6.35%
Average combined (state + local)
6.35%
Category exemptions
| Category | Rule | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Exempt | Unprepared food at grocery stores. |
| Clothing | Taxed (full rate) | Items under $50 exempt during back-to-school week |
| Prescription drugs | Exempt | Prescribed medications dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. |
Connecticut sales tax holiday
Sales Tax Free Week
When: Third Sunday-Saturday in August
Items: Clothing & footwear under $100 per item
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $6.35
- Combined (state + average local): $6.35
- Total with combined tax: $106.35
Major cities in Connecticut
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Hartford | 6.35% | +0.00% |
| New Haven | 6.35% | +0.00% |
| Stamford | 6.35% | +0.00% |
| Bridgeport | 6.35% | +0.00% |
| Waterbury | 6.35% | +0.00% |
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 CT | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut (current) | 6.35% | 6.35% | — | — |
| Massachusetts | 6.25% | 6.25% | -0.10% | $1.00 |
| Rhode Island | 7.00% | 7.00% | +0.65% | — |
| New York | 4.00% | 8.53% | +2.18% | — |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Connecticut?
- Connecticut levies a 6.35% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 6.35%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Connecticut tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Connecticut. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Connecticut have a sales tax holiday?
- Yes. Connecticut runs Sales Tax Free Week third sunday-saturday in august. Eligible items: clothing & footwear under $100 per item.
- Who collects sales tax in Connecticut?
- The Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy