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Sales Tax by City

Oakland, California Sales Tax Calculator

Oakland has a combined sales tax rate of 10.250% — meaningfully higher than the California statewide average of 8.85%. Alameda County adds 3% in district taxes including BART transit, on top of the 7.25% California base.

Total with tax
$108.85
Combined rate 8.850%
Purchase amount$100.00
State tax (7.250%)$7.25
Local tax (1.600%)$1.60
Total tax$8.85
California notes: Highest state base rate in the US. Groceries are exempt. Statewide average combined rate: 8.85%. Max local rate: 3.25%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.
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Sales tax in Oakland

The 10.250% you pay at a Oakland register is made up of 7.25% state tax plus roughly 3.000% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. Alameda County adds 3% in district taxes including BART transit, on top of the 7.25% California base.

That's higher than the California average of 8.85%. Most large California 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.

California 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 Oakland address, use the California 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.

Oakland rate breakdown: Combined rate 10.250% = CA state 7.25% + local 3.000% (county + city + transit + special districts).
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Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Oakland, California?

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

How is the Oakland sales tax broken down?

Oakland's 10.250% combined rate is made up of: 7.25% 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 Oakland?

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

Are groceries taxed in Oakland?

California exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax — they're not taxed in Oakland either. Restaurant meals and prepared food are taxed at the full 10.250% rate.

Is the sales tax in Oakland higher than surrounding cities?

Yes — Oakland's combined rate of 10.250% is above the California statewide average of 8.85%. Suburbs and smaller cities in the same state often pay lower combined rates.

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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.