Washington Sales Tax
The state sales tax rate in Washington is 6.5%. With typical city and county taxes the average combined rate is about 9.43%.
Washington sales tax on common purchases
| Price | Tax at state rate | Tax at average combined rate | Total with average rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| $20 | $1.30 | $1.89 | $21.89 |
| $100 | $6.50 | $9.43 | $109.43 |
| $500 | $32.50 | $47.15 | $547.15 |
| $1,000 | $65.00 | $94.30 | $1,094.30 |
| $5,000 | $325.00 | $471.50 | $5,471.50 |
| $25,000 | $1,625.00 | $2,357.50 | $27,357.50 |
What is taxed in Washington
Most states tax goods such as electronics, clothing and furniture. Many exempt groceries, prescription drugs or both, and tax services less often than goods. Cars are usually taxed at registration, sometimes at a different rate. Confirm the exact treatment of an item with the Washington department of revenue.
How Washington compares
The average combined sales tax across states is about 6.61%. Washington is above that average. Nearby on the list:
| State | State rate | Average combined |
|---|---|---|
| California | 7.25% | 8.85% |
| Illinois | 6.25% | 8.87% |
| Oklahoma | 4.5% | 8.99% |
| Washington | 6.5% | 9.43% |
| Alabama | 4% | 9.46% |
| Arkansas | 6.5% | 9.46% |
| Tennessee | 7% | 9.61% |
Buying a car or paying online
Vehicle purchases are often taxed when you register the car; see the Washington car sales tax page. Online sellers must collect sales tax in most states, so the checkout total usually already includes it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax in Washington?
The state rate is 6.5%; the average combined rate with local taxes is 9.43%.
Does Washington tax groceries?
Treatment varies by state and by item. Check the state revenue department for the current rule.
Sources and method
- Tax Foundation: state and local sales tax rates
- Official Washington department of revenue (confirm current local rates)
Page last updated November 2026. See our editorial policy and disclaimer.