Estimate only — not tax advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See methodology and sources.
Washington Sales Tax
State + average local combined rate, category exemptions, and how it compares to neighbors.
State rate
6.50%
Average combined (state + local)
9.42%
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. |
Example: $100 purchase
- State sales tax only: $6.50
- Combined (state + average local): $9.42
- Total with combined tax: $109.42
Major cities in Washington
| City | Combined rate | vs state avg |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | 10.25% | +0.83% |
| Spokane | 9.00% | -0.42% |
| Tacoma | 10.30% | +0.88% |
| Vancouver | 8.40% | -1.02% |
| Bellevue | 10.00% | +0.58% |
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 WA | Save on $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington (current) | 6.50% | 9.42% | — | — |
| Oregon | 0.00% | 0.00% | -9.42% | $94.20 |
| Idaho | 6.00% | 6.03% | -3.39% | $33.90 |
Common questions
- What is the sales tax rate in Washington?
- Washington levies a 6.50% state sales tax. With local taxes added, the statewide average combined rate is 9.42%. Actual rate at the register depends on your city and county.
- Does Washington tax groceries?
- Groceries are exempt from state sales tax in Washington. Hot or prepared food typically remains taxable.
- Does Washington have a sales tax holiday?
- Washington 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 Washington?
- The Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington DOR for current rules. All states →
Last reviewed: · Beforeview Editorial · editorial policy