Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Texas Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
6.25%
Average combined (state + local)
8.20%
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. |
Texas sales tax holiday
Sales Tax Holiday
When: Friday-Sunday before school starts (August)
Items: Clothing/footwear < $100, school supplies < $100, backpacks < $100
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $6.25
- Combined (state + average local): $8.20
- Total with combined tax: $108.20
Major cities in Texas
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 8.25% | +0.05% |
| Dallas | 8.25% | +0.05% |
| Austin | 8.25% | +0.05% |
| San Antonio | 8.25% | +0.05% |
| Fort Worth | 8.25% | +0.05% |
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 TX | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas (current) | 6.25% | 8.20% | — | — |
| New Mexico | 4.88% | 7.62% | -0.58% | $5.80 |
| Oklahoma | 4.50% | 9.01% | +0.81% | — |
| Arkansas | 6.50% | 9.45% | +1.25% | — |
| Louisiana | 4.45% | 9.56% | +1.36% | — |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Texas?
- Texas levies a 6.25% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 8.20%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Texas tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Texas. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Texas have a sales tax holiday?
- Yes. Texas runs Sales Tax Holiday friday-sunday before school starts (august). Eligible items: clothing/footwear < $100, school supplies < $100, backpacks < $100.
- Who collects sales tax in Texas?
- The Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy