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Madison, Wisconsin Sales Tax Calculator

The combined sales tax rate in Madison, Wisconsin is 5.500%. 5% state + 0.5% Dane County. Lower than Milwaukee (which added a 2% city tax in 2024). Groceries exempt.

Total with tax
$105.70
Combined rate 5.700%
Purchase amount$100.00
State tax (5.000%)$5.00
Local tax (0.700%)$0.70
Total tax$5.70
Wisconsin notes: Groceries exempt. Statewide average combined rate: 5.70%. Max local rate: 1.75%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.
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Sales tax in Madison

The 5.500% you pay at a Madison register is made up of 5.00% state tax plus roughly 0.500% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. 5% state + 0.5% Dane County. Lower than Milwaukee (which added a 2% city tax in 2024). Groceries exempt.

That tracks closely with the Wisconsin statewide average of 5.70%.

Wisconsin 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 Madison address, use the Wisconsin 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.

Madison rate breakdown: Combined rate 5.500% = WI state 5.00% + local 0.500% (county + city + transit + special districts).
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Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Madison, Wisconsin?

The combined sales tax rate in Madison is 5.500%. That includes the Wisconsin state portion plus county, city, and any applicable special-district taxes.

How is the Madison sales tax broken down?

Madison's 5.500% combined rate is made up of: 5.00% 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 Madison?

At a combined rate of 5.500%, sales tax on $100 in Madison is $5.50, bringing the total to $105.50.

Are groceries taxed in Madison?

Wisconsin exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax — they're not taxed in Madison either. Restaurant meals and prepared food are taxed at the full 5.500% rate.

Is the sales tax in Madison higher than surrounding cities?

Madison's rate of 5.500% is close to the Wisconsin statewide average of 5.70%. Some neighbors may be a fraction of a percent higher or lower.

Other cities in Wisconsin

Milwaukee

Combined 7.900%

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Related calculators

Wisconsin Sales Tax (statewide)

State-level rates and rules for all of Wisconsin.

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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.