TheProfitCalcs
Sales Tax by City

Des Moines, Iowa Sales Tax Calculator

The combined sales tax rate in Des Moines, Iowa is 7.000%. 6% state + 1% Polk County local option. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.

Total with tax
$106.94
Combined rate 6.940%
Purchase amount$100.00
State tax (6.000%)$6.00
Local tax (0.940%)$0.94
Total tax$6.94
Iowa notes: Groceries and prescription drugs exempt. Statewide average combined rate: 6.94%. Max local rate: 1.00%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.
Advertisement

Sales tax in Des Moines

The 7.000% you pay at a Des Moines register is made up of 6.00% state tax plus roughly 1.000% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. 6% state + 1% Polk County local option. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.

That tracks closely with the Iowa statewide average of 6.94%.

Iowa exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax. Restaurant meals and prepared food are taxable at the full combined rate.

For exact tax on a transaction at a specific Des Moines address, use the Iowa 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.

Des Moines rate breakdown: Combined rate 7.000% = IA state 6.00% + local 1.000% (county + city + transit + special districts).
Advertisement

Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Des Moines, Iowa?

The combined sales tax rate in Des Moines is 7.000%. That includes the Iowa state portion plus county, city, and any applicable special-district taxes.

How is the Des Moines sales tax broken down?

Des Moines's 7.000% combined rate is made up of: 6.00% 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 Des Moines?

At a combined rate of 7.000%, sales tax on $100 in Des Moines is $7.00, bringing the total to $107.00.

Are groceries taxed in Des Moines?

Iowa exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax — they're not taxed in Des Moines either. Restaurant meals and prepared food are taxed at the full 7.000% rate.

Is the sales tax in Des Moines higher than surrounding cities?

Des Moines's rate of 7.000% is close to the Iowa statewide average of 6.94%. Some neighbors may be a fraction of a percent higher or lower.

Related calculators

Iowa Sales Tax (statewide)

State-level rates and rules for all of Iowa.

Open calculator →

All-State Sales Tax Calculator

Combined rates for all 50 states + DC.

Open calculator →
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.