San Diego, California Sales Tax Calculator
San Diego's combined sales tax rate is 7.750%, lower than the California statewide average of 8.85%. San Diego sits just above the state base: 7.25% CA + 0.5% county district tax. Lower than coastal LA County jurisdictions.
Sales tax in San Diego
The 7.750% you pay at a San Diego register is made up of 7.25% state tax plus roughly 0.500% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. San Diego sits just above the state base: 7.25% CA + 0.5% county district tax. Lower than coastal LA County jurisdictions.
That's below the California statewide average of 8.85%. Cities with lower combined rates often have fewer special districts (transit, sports facilities, redevelopment zones) layered on top.
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 San Diego 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.