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District of Columbia Sales Tax Rate

Typical combined sales tax in District of Columbia

6.00%

State rate
6.00%
Average local rate
0.00%
National average (combined)
6.64%
vs national
-0.64%
Rank (highest = 1)
38 of 51

District of Columbia compared with nearby-ranked states

RankStateCombined rate
36South Dakota6.11%
37Idaho6.03%
38District of Columbia6.00%
39Kentucky6.00%
40Maryland6.00%

How sales tax works in District of Columbia

Sales tax is charged on most retail purchases. The rate you actually pay is the 6.00% state rate plus whatever your city and county add — the combined figure of 6.00% above is a state-wide average, so two addresses in District of Columbia can pay different amounts. Groceries, prescription drugs and some other categories are often taxed at a lower rate or exempt.

For online orders shipped to District of Columbia, the seller generally collects the buyer's local rate (destination sourcing) if they exceed the state's economic-nexus threshold. See how US sales tax works and sales tax vs use tax.

Source: Tax Foundation, "State and Local Sales Tax Rates, 2026". Verify your exact jurisdiction with the District of Columbia Department of Revenue. See also the District of Columbia minimum wage.

Nearby states

Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in District of Columbia?
The statewide rate is 6.00%. With the average local add-on of 0.00%, the typical combined rate is about 6.00%. Your exact city or county rate can be higher or lower.
Is District of Columbia's sales tax high or low?
It ranks 38 of 51 states and DC by combined rate, below the roughly 6.64% national average by 0.64%.
How much sales tax on a $100 purchase in District of Columbia?
About $6.00 at the typical combined rate of 6.00%, so roughly $106.00 total. Groceries and prescriptions are often taxed less or exempt.
Does this include local (city and county) taxes?
Yes — the combined figure is the District of Columbia state rate plus a population-weighted average of local rates. Because local rates vary within a state, your specific address may differ; confirm with the District of Columbia Department of Revenue.
Does District of Columbia tax groceries or clothing?
Most states exempt or reduce tax on groceries and prescription drugs; a few tax clothing at a reduced rate or not at all. Rules vary by state and change, so check the state Department of Revenue for the current category list.

Last reviewed: September 2026. Figures and formulas are checked against their published sources; see the site's data notes.