Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Michigan Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
6.00%
Average combined (state + local)
6.00%
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: $6.00
- Combined (state + average local): $6.00
- Total with combined tax: $106.00
Major cities in Michigan
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Detroit | 6.00% | +0.00% |
| Grand Rapids | 6.00% | +0.00% |
| Warren | 6.00% | +0.00% |
| Sterling Heights | 6.00% | +0.00% |
| Ann Arbor | 6.00% | +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 MI | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan (current) | 6.00% | 6.00% | — | — |
| Wisconsin | 5.00% | 5.43% | -0.57% | $5.70 |
| Indiana | 7.00% | 7.00% | +1.00% | — |
| Ohio | 5.75% | 7.26% | +1.26% | — |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Michigan?
- Michigan levies a 6.00% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 6.00%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Michigan tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Michigan. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Michigan have a sales tax holiday?
- Michigan 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 Michigan?
- The Michigan 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 Michigan 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 Michigan DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy