Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Virginia Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
5.30%
Average combined (state + local)
5.77%
Category exemptions
| Category | Rule | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Reduced rate | 1% reduced state rate (vs 5.3% standard) |
| 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: $5.30
- Combined (state + average local): $5.77
- Total with combined tax: $105.77
Major cities in Virginia
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | 6.00% | +0.23% |
| Norfolk | 6.00% | +0.23% |
| Chesapeake | 6.00% | +0.23% |
| Richmond | 6.00% | +0.23% |
| Arlington | 6.00% | +0.23% |
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 VA | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia (current) | 5.30% | 5.77% | — | — |
| Maryland | 6.00% | 6.00% | +0.23% | — |
| District of Columbia | 6.00% | 6.00% | +0.23% | — |
| Kentucky | 6.00% | 6.00% | +0.23% | — |
| West Virginia | 6.00% | 6.56% | +0.79% | — |
| North Carolina | 4.75% | 7.03% | +1.26% | — |
| Tennessee | 7.00% | 9.55% | +3.78% | — |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Virginia?
- Virginia levies a 5.30% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 5.77%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Virginia tax groceries?
- Virginia applies a reduced rate to groceries. 1% reduced state rate (vs 5.3% standard)
- Does Virginia have a sales tax holiday?
- Virginia 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 Virginia?
- The Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy