California Sales Tax Calculator
The California state sales tax rate is 7.25% in 2026. Local taxes add an average of 1.78%, bringing the average combined rate to 9.03%. California has the #7 highest average combined rate in the country. Rates verified July 2026 (Tax Foundation midyear data).
Preset to the California average combined rate (9.03%). The state rate alone is 7.25%. Adjust to match your city or county.
Sales tax on common purchase amounts in California
These totals use the 9.03% average combined rate. Your exact total depends on the local rate where you buy.
| Price before tax | Sales tax (9.03%) | Total with tax |
|---|---|---|
| $10.00 | $0.90 | $10.90 |
| $50.00 | $4.52 | $54.52 |
| $100.00 | $9.03 | $109.03 |
| $250.00 | $22.58 | $272.58 |
| $500.00 | $45.15 | $545.15 |
| $1,000.00 | $90.30 | $1,090.30 |
| $5,000.00 | $451.50 | $5,451.50 |
How California sales tax works
Every taxable purchase in California starts with the 7.25% state rate. On top of that, the city, county, and any special districts where the sale happens add their own rates. Averaged across where people actually shop, locals pay about 9.03% all-in.
To figure the tax yourself: multiply the price by 0.0903. A $250.00 purchase generates $22.58 in tax for a total of $272.58. To back the tax out of a receipt total, divide by 1.0903 instead. The calculator above does both.