⚡ Updated for 2026 · California Sales Tax

California Sales Tax Calculator 2026

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Sales Tax Amount
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Combined rate: 0%
Total with tax: $0.00
Pre-tax Amount
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Tax Amount
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Total Price
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Tax Rate Breakdown

California Sales Tax Rates by County (2026)

CountyState RateCounty RateCombined RateMajor City
Alameda6.00%0.25%8.25%Oakland
Butte6.00%0.50%7.25%Chico
Fresno6.00%0.975%8.175%Fresno
Kern6.00%0.25%7.25%Bakersfield
Los Angeles6.00%0.50%8.25%Los Angeles
Orange6.00%0.50%7.75%Santa Ana
Riverside6.00%0.50%7.75%Riverside
Sacramento6.00%0.25%7.75%Sacramento
San Bernardino6.00%0.50%7.75%San Bernardino
San Diego6.00%0.50%7.75%San Diego
San Francisco6.00%0.25%8.25%San Francisco
San Joaquin6.00%0.50%7.75%Stockton

What Is the California Sales Tax Rate in 2026?

The California state sales tax rate is 6.00%. However, the total sales tax rate can range from 7.25% to 8.75% depending on the county and local taxes. California has a complex sales tax system, with different rates applying to different types of goods and services.

Some unique facts about California’s tax system include the fact that groceries, clothing, and prescription medication are exempt from sales tax. Additionally, California has a “use tax” which applies to purchases made out of state but used in California.

💡 Quick Reference: For example, if you purchase a $100 item in Los Angeles, the total sales tax would be $8.25 (6.00% state rate + 0.50% county rate + 1.75% local rate), making the total cost $108.25.

It’s worth noting that while groceries and clothing are exempt from sales tax, some other items like prepared foods and certain types of clothing may still be subject to tax.

Common California Sales Tax Exemptions

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Groceries
Most grocery items, including fresh produce, meat, and dairy products, are exempt from sales tax in California.
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Clothing
Most articles of clothing, including shoes and accessories, are exempt from sales tax in California.
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Prescription Medication
Prescription medication and certain medical equipment are exempt from sales tax in California.
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Residential Rentals
Rentals of residential property, including apartments and houses, are exempt from sales tax in California.
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Used Vehicles
Sales of used vehicles are exempt from sales tax in California, but may be subject to other fees and taxes.
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Textbooks
Textbooks and other educational materials are exempt from sales tax in California.

How Does California Sales Tax Work?

California sales tax is collected by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). The CDTFA is responsible for administering and collecting sales tax, as well as other taxes and fees, in the state of California.

In California, businesses are required to collect sales tax on taxable sales and remit it to the CDTFA. The state has a complex system of nexus rules, which determine whether a business is required to collect sales tax. The economic nexus threshold in California is $500,000 in annual sales, meaning that businesses with sales above this threshold are required to collect sales tax.

📅 California Sales Tax Filing: Businesses are required to file sales tax returns with the CDTFA on a quarterly basis, with deadlines of April 30, July 31, October 31, and January 31. Businesses can file online or by mail, and are required to pay any taxes due by the filing deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

The state sales tax rate in California is 6.00%, but the total sales tax rate can range from 7.25% to 8.75% depending on the county and local taxes.
Yes, most grocery items are exempt from sales tax in California.
Yes, if you have nexus in California, you are required to collect sales tax on online sales. The economic nexus threshold in California is $500,000 in annual sales.
You can file sales tax returns online or by mail with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). The deadlines are April 30, July 31, October 31, and January 31.
The penalty for late payment of sales tax in California is 10% of the unpaid tax, plus interest at a rate of 0.5% per month.
Yes, if you have overpaid sales tax, you can file a claim for refund with the CDTFA. You will need to provide documentation to support your claim.

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