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Sales Tax by State

District of Columbia Sales Tax Calculator

District of Columbia uses a single 6.00% sales tax statewide with no local additions. Every jurisdiction in the state charges the same combined rate. Single jurisdiction rate; groceries exempt. Higher rates apply for restaurants, hotels, parking.

Total with tax
$106.00
Combined rate 6.000%
Purchase amount$100.00
State tax (6.000%)$6.00
Local tax (0.000%)$0.00
Total tax$6.00
District of Columbia notes: Single jurisdiction rate; groceries exempt. Higher rates apply for restaurants, hotels, parking. Statewide average combined rate: 6.00%. Max local rate: 0.00%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.
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How District of Columbia sales tax works

District of Columbia applies a 6.00% state sales tax to most retail purchases. Unlike many states, District of Columbia does not allow counties or cities to add local sales taxes — the state rate is the full rate everywhere in the state.

Groceries are exempt from District of Columbia's state sales tax. Prepared food (restaurants, deli items, hot food bars) is generally still taxable at the full combined rate.

District of Columbia pairs its sales tax with a top marginal state income tax of 10.75%, one of the higher rates in the country. The combined tax burden is a factor many remote workers and retirees weigh when comparing relocations.

For exact rates by ZIP code or address, use the District of Columbia Department of Revenue's online lookup. Because there are no local additions, the rate is consistent statewide. Run any purchase amount through the calculator above to see the breakdown.

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Frequently asked questions

What is District of Columbia's sales tax rate?

The District of Columbia state sales tax rate is 6.00%. After typical local taxes, the average combined rate is 6.00%.

Does District of Columbia tax groceries?

No — groceries are exempt from District of Columbia state sales tax. Prepared food (restaurants, hot food, deli) is generally taxed at the full rate.

Is clothing taxed in District of Columbia?

Yes — clothing is taxable in District of Columbia at the standard sales tax rate.

What about online purchases shipped to District of Columbia?

Online retailers with "economic nexus" in District of Columbia (typically $100,000+ in annual sales or 200+ transactions per year) must collect District of Columbia sales tax at checkout. Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy generally collect it automatically. For purchases from out-of-state sellers that don't collect, District of Columbia expects buyers to remit "use tax" — though enforcement on individuals is rare.

What is District of Columbia's state income tax rate?

District of Columbia's top marginal state income tax rate is 10.75%. For details on self-employment tax including state-by-state combined rates, see our Self-Employment Tax Calculator.

Where do I look up the exact rate for my address in District of Columbia?

Use the District of Columbia Department of Revenue's online address lookup. Combined rates can vary by ZIP code, especially when special tax districts (transit, stadiums, redevelopment zones) overlap with parts of a city.

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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.