Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
South Carolina Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
6.00%
Average combined (state + local)
7.44%
Category exemptions
| Category | Rule | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Exempt | Exempt from state; local hospitality tax may apply |
| Clothing | Taxed (full rate) | Everyday apparel and footwear. |
| Prescription drugs | Exempt | Prescribed medications dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. |
South Carolina sales tax holiday
Tax-Free Weekend
When: First Friday-Sunday in August
Items: Clothing, shoes, school supplies, computers (no price cap)
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $6.00
- Combined (state + average local): $7.44
- Total with combined tax: $107.44
Major cities in South Carolina
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston | 9.00% | +1.56% |
| Columbia | 8.00% | +0.56% |
| North Charleston | 9.00% | +1.56% |
| Mount Pleasant | 9.00% | +1.56% |
| Rock Hill | 8.00% | +0.56% |
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 SC | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina (current) | 6.00% | 7.44% | — | — |
| North Carolina | 4.75% | 7.03% | -0.41% | $4.10 |
| Georgia | 4.00% | 7.38% | -0.06% | $0.60 |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in South Carolina?
- South Carolina levies a 6.00% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 7.44%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does South Carolina tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in South Carolina. Exempt from state; local hospitality tax may apply
- Does South Carolina have a sales tax holiday?
- Yes. South Carolina runs Tax-Free Weekend first friday-sunday in august. Eligible items: clothing, shoes, school supplies, computers (no price cap).
- Who collects sales tax in South Carolina?
- The South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy