Sales Tax by City

Seattle, Washington Sales Tax Calculator

The combined sales tax rate in Seattle, Washington is 10.350%. 6.5% state + 3.85% combined city + transit. Among the highest combined rates in the US. Groceries exempt.

Purchase amount

StateOverride with a specific city or county local rate

Total with tax

$109.38

Combined rate 9.380%

Purchase amount$100.00

State tax (6.500%)$6.50

Local tax (2.880%)$2.88

Total tax$9.38

Washington notes: No state income tax on wages. Groceries exempt. Statewide average combined rate: 9.38%. Max local rate: 4.10%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.

Sales tax in Seattle

The 10.350% you pay at a Seattle register is made up of 6.50% state tax plus roughly 3.850% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. 6.5% state + 3.85% combined city + transit. Among the highest combined rates in the US. Groceries exempt.

That's higher than the Washington average of 9.38%. Most large Washington 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.

Washington 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 Seattle address, use the Washington 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.

Seattle rate breakdown: Combined rate 10.350% = WA state 6.50% + local 3.850% (county + city + transit + special districts).

Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Seattle, Washington?

The combined sales tax rate in Seattle is 10.350%. That includes the Washington state portion plus county, city, and any applicable special-district taxes.

How is the Seattle sales tax broken down?

Seattle's 10.350% combined rate is made up of: 6.50% 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 Seattle?

At a combined rate of 10.350%, sales tax on $100 in Seattle is $10.35, bringing the total to $110.35.

Are groceries taxed in Seattle?

Washington exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax — they're not taxed in Seattle either. Restaurant meals and prepared food are taxed at the full 10.350% rate.

Is the sales tax in Seattle higher than surrounding cities?

Yes — Seattle's combined rate of 10.350% is above the Washington statewide average of 9.38%. Suburbs and smaller cities in the same state often pay lower combined rates.

Other cities in Washington

Spokane

Combined 9.000%

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Related calculators

Washington Sales Tax (statewide)

State-level rates and rules for all of Washington.

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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.