Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Massachusetts Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
6.25%
Average combined (state + local)
6.25%
Category exemptions
| Category | Rule | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Exempt | Unprepared food at grocery stores. |
| Clothing | Exempt | Clothing under $175 exempt; only excess taxed |
| Prescription drugs | Exempt | Prescribed medications dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. |
Massachusetts sales tax holiday
Annual Sales Tax Holiday
When: Mid-August weekend
Items: Most retail items under $2,500
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $6.25
- Combined (state + average local): $6.25
- Total with combined tax: $106.25
Major cities in Massachusetts
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Boston | 6.25% | +0.00% |
| Worcester | 6.25% | +0.00% |
| Springfield | 6.25% | +0.00% |
| Cambridge | 6.25% | +0.00% |
| Lowell | 6.25% | +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 MA | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts (current) | 6.25% | 6.25% | — | — |
| New Hampshire | 0.00% | 0.00% | -6.25% | $62.50 |
| Connecticut | 6.35% | 6.35% | +0.10% | — |
| Vermont | 6.00% | 6.36% | +0.11% | — |
| Rhode Island | 7.00% | 7.00% | +0.75% | — |
| New York | 4.00% | 8.53% | +2.28% | — |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Massachusetts?
- Massachusetts levies a 6.25% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 6.25%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Massachusetts tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Massachusetts. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Massachusetts have a sales tax holiday?
- Yes. Massachusetts runs Annual Sales Tax Holiday mid-august weekend. Eligible items: most retail items under $2,500.
- Who collects sales tax in Massachusetts?
- The Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy