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Sales Tax by State

Tennessee Sales Tax Calculator

Tennessee's state sales tax rate is 7.00%, among the highest base rates in the country. After typical local taxes, the average combined rate is 9.55%. No state income tax. Groceries taxed at reduced 4% state rate; local rates also apply.

Total with tax
$109.55
Combined rate 9.550%
Purchase amount$100.00
State tax (7.000%)$7.00
Local tax (2.550%)$2.55
Total tax$9.55
Tennessee notes: No state income tax. Groceries taxed at reduced 4% state rate; local rates also apply. Statewide average combined rate: 9.55%. Max local rate: 2.75%. Groceries: taxed at 4%.
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How Tennessee sales tax works

Tennessee applies a 7.00% state sales tax to most retail purchases. Counties, cities, and special districts can add up to 2.75% on top, so the actual rate you pay varies by jurisdiction. The statewide average combined rate is 9.55%.

Unlike most states, Tennessee taxes groceries — but at a reduced rate of 4.00% rather than the full 7.00%. Local sales taxes generally still apply to grocery purchases at the full local rate. Prepared and restaurant food is taxed at the regular combined rate.

Tennessee is one of nine U.S. states with no personal income tax — meaning sales and property taxes carry more of the revenue burden. That's part of why combined sales tax rates here tend to be higher than in income-tax states.

For exact rates by ZIP code or address, use the Tennessee Department of Revenue's online lookup. The combined rate at the register is whatever the state rate plus the local jurisdiction add to — and local rates can shift each year as cities pass new measures. Run any purchase amount through the calculator above to see the breakdown.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Tennessee's sales tax rate?

The Tennessee state sales tax rate is 7.00%. After typical local taxes, the average combined rate is 9.55%.

Does Tennessee tax groceries?

Yes, but at a reduced rate of 4.00%. Local sales taxes generally still apply at the full local rate.

Is clothing taxed in Tennessee?

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

What about online purchases shipped to Tennessee?

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

Does Tennessee have a state income tax?

No — Tennessee is one of nine U.S. states with no personal income tax. That makes the state attractive to high earners and remote workers, but it also means sales and property taxes do more of the revenue work here than in income-tax states.

Where do I look up the exact rate for my address in Tennessee?

Use the Tennessee 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.

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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.