Sales Tax by City

Chicago, Illinois Sales Tax Calculator

Chicago has a combined sales tax rate of 10.250% — meaningfully higher than the Illinois statewide average of 8.86%. Among the highest big-city rates in the country: 6.25% state + 1.75% Cook County + 1.25% Chicago + 1% RTA transit.

Purchase amount

StateOverride with a specific city or county local rate

Total with tax

$108.86

Combined rate 8.860%

Purchase amount$100.00

State tax (6.250%)$6.25

Local tax (2.610%)$2.61

Total tax$8.86

Illinois notes: Groceries taxed at reduced 1% state rate (paused 2022–2023, returning 2026). Statewide average combined rate: 8.86%. Max local rate: 5.25%. Groceries: taxed at 1%.

Sales tax in Chicago

The 10.250% you pay at a Chicago register is made up of 6.25% state tax plus roughly 4.000% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. Among the highest big-city rates in the country: 6.25% state + 1.75% Cook County + 1.25% Chicago + 1% RTA transit.

That's higher than the Illinois average of 8.86%. Most large Illinois cities run above the state average because urban areas tend to layer transit taxes, special improvement districts, and arena/stadium taxes on top of the state and county base.

Illinois taxes groceries at a reduced state rate of 1.00%, but local taxes generally still apply at the full local rate.

For exact tax on a transaction at a specific Chicago address, use the Illinois Department of Revenue's lookup or a tool like Avalara. Rates can vary block-by-block when special tax districts cover part of the city.

Chicago rate breakdown: Combined rate 10.250% = IL state 6.25% + local 4.000% (county + city + transit + special districts).

Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Chicago, Illinois?

The combined sales tax rate in Chicago is 10.250%. That includes the Illinois state portion plus county, city, and any applicable special-district taxes.

How is the Chicago sales tax broken down?

Chicago's 10.250% combined rate is made up of: 6.25% state, plus local additions including county, city, and any transit or special-district taxes. See the breakdown in the calculator above for any purchase amount.

What is the sales tax on a $100 purchase in Chicago?

At a combined rate of 10.250%, sales tax on $100 in Chicago is $10.25, bringing the total to $110.25.

Are groceries taxed in Chicago?

Groceries are taxed at a reduced rate of 1.00% in Illinois; local taxes typically still apply at the full local rate.

Is the sales tax in Chicago higher than surrounding cities?

Yes — Chicago's combined rate of 10.250% is above the Illinois statewide average of 8.86%. Suburbs and smaller cities in the same state often pay lower combined rates.

Related calculators

Illinois Sales Tax (statewide)

State-level rates and rules for all of Illinois.

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All-State Sales Tax Calculator

Combined rates for all 50 states + DC.

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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, accounting, or legal advice. Tax rates, regulations, and economic data change frequently. Consult a qualified accountant or tax professional for advice specific to your situation.