Estimate only - not tax advice. Methodology and sources.
Missouri Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
4.23%
Average combined (state + local)
8.38%
Missouri vs neighboring states
KY
IA
NE
MO
KS
IL
OK
AR
TN
Category exemptions
| Category | Rule | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Reduced rate | 1.225% reduced state rate |
| Clothing | Taxed (full rate) | Everyday apparel and footwear. |
| Prescription drugs | Exempt | Prescribed medications dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. |
Missouri sales tax holiday
Back-to-School Holiday
When: First weekend of August
Items: Clothing < $100, computers < $1,500, supplies < $50
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $4.23
- Combined (state + average local): $8.38
- Total with combined tax: $108.38
Major cities in Missouri
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | 9.75% | +1.37% |
| St. Louis | 9.95% | +1.57% |
| Springfield | 8.10% | -0.28% |
| Columbia | 7.95% | -0.43% |
| Independence | 9.75% | +1.37% |
Border shopping - vs neighboring states
For larger purchases, driving to a neighbor with lower combined rate can save real money.
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Missouri?
- Missouri levies a 4.23% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 8.38%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Missouri tax groceries?
- Missouri applies a reduced rate to groceries. 1.225% reduced state rate
- Does Missouri have a sales tax holiday?
- Yes. Missouri runs Back-to-School Holiday first weekend of august. Eligible items: clothing < $100, computers < $1,500, supplies < $50.
- Who collects sales tax in Missouri?
- The Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Reviewed by kgenots, Editor · editorial policy