Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Ohio Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
5.75%
Average combined (state + local)
7.26%
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. |
Ohio sales tax holiday
Sales Tax Holiday
When: First Friday-Sunday in August
Items: Clothing < $75, school supplies < $20
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $5.75
- Combined (state + average local): $7.26
- Total with combined tax: $107.26
Major cities in Ohio
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus | 7.50% | +0.24% |
| Cleveland | 8.00% | +0.74% |
| Cincinnati | 7.25% | -0.01% |
| Toledo | 7.25% | -0.01% |
| Akron | 6.75% | -0.51% |
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 OH | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio (current) | 5.75% | 7.26% | — | — |
| Michigan | 6.00% | 6.00% | -1.26% | $12.60 |
| Kentucky | 6.00% | 6.00% | -1.26% | $12.60 |
| Pennsylvania | 6.00% | 6.34% | -0.92% | $9.20 |
| West Virginia | 6.00% | 6.56% | -0.70% | $7.00 |
| Indiana | 7.00% | 7.00% | -0.26% | $2.60 |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Ohio?
- Ohio levies a 5.75% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 7.26%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Ohio tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Ohio. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Ohio have a sales tax holiday?
- Yes. Ohio runs Sales Tax Holiday first friday-sunday in august. Eligible items: clothing < $75, school supplies < $20.
- Who collects sales tax in Ohio?
- The Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy