TheProfitCalcs
Sales Tax by State

Kentucky Sales Tax Calculator

Kentucky uses a single 6.00% sales tax statewide with no local additions. Every jurisdiction in the state charges the same combined rate. No local sales tax. Groceries exempt.

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
Kentucky notes: No local sales tax. Groceries exempt. Statewide average combined rate: 6.00%. Max local rate: 0.00%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.
Advertisement

How Kentucky sales tax works

Kentucky applies a 6.00% state sales tax to most retail purchases. Unlike many states, Kentucky 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 Kentucky's state sales tax. Prepared food (restaurants, deli items, hot food bars) is generally still taxable at the full combined rate.

For exact rates by ZIP code or address, use the Kentucky 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.

Advertisement

Frequently asked questions

What is Kentucky's sales tax rate?

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

Does Kentucky tax groceries?

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

Is clothing taxed in Kentucky?

Yes — clothing is taxable in Kentucky at the standard sales tax rate.

What about online purchases shipped to Kentucky?

Online retailers with "economic nexus" in Kentucky (typically $100,000+ in annual sales or 200+ transactions per year) must collect Kentucky 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, Kentucky expects buyers to remit "use tax" — though enforcement on individuals is rare.

What is Kentucky's state income tax rate?

Kentucky's top marginal state income tax rate is 4.00%. 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 Kentucky?

Use the Kentucky 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.

Sales tax in nearby states

Tennessee
Avg 9.55%
Indiana
Avg 7.00%
Ohio
Avg 7.24%
West Virginia
Avg 6.57%

Related calculators

All-State Sales Tax Calculator

The main sales tax calculator covering all 50 states + DC.

Open calculator →

Discount Calculator

Calculate sale prices and apply sales tax to the discounted total.

Open calculator →

Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Estimate quarterly federal SE tax and income tax as a 1099 earner.

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.