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Washington, District of Columbia Sales Tax Calculator

The combined sales tax rate in Washington, District of Columbia is 6.500%. DC has a single 6.5% rate (raised from 6% in October 2025; scheduled to reach 7% on October 1, 2026). Restaurants pay 10%, hotels 14.95%, parking 18%. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.

Total with tax
$106.00
Combined rate 6.000%
Purchase amount$100.00
State tax (6.000%)$6.00
Local tax (0.000%)$0.00
Total tax$6.00
District of Columbia notes: Single jurisdiction rate; groceries exempt. Higher rates apply for restaurants, hotels, parking. Statewide average combined rate: 6.00%. Max local rate: 0.00%. Groceries: exempt from state tax.
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Sales tax in Washington

The 6.500% you pay at a Washington register is made up of 6.00% state tax plus roughly 0.500% in local taxes — a combination of county, city, and special-district levies. DC has a single 6.5% rate (raised from 6% in October 2025; scheduled to reach 7% on October 1, 2026). Restaurants pay 10%, hotels 14.95%, parking 18%. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.

That tracks closely with the District of Columbia statewide average of 6.00%.

District of Columbia 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 Washington address, use the District of Columbia 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.

Washington rate breakdown: Combined rate 6.500% = DC state 6.00% + local 0.500% (county + city + transit + special districts).
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Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Washington, District of Columbia?

The combined sales tax rate in Washington is 6.500%. That includes the District of Columbia state portion plus county, city, and any applicable special-district taxes.

How is the Washington sales tax broken down?

Washington's 6.500% combined rate is made up of: 6.00% 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 Washington?

At a combined rate of 6.500%, sales tax on $100 in Washington is $6.50, bringing the total to $106.50.

Are groceries taxed in Washington?

District of Columbia exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax — they're not taxed in Washington either. Restaurant meals and prepared food are taxed at the full 6.500% rate.

Is the sales tax in Washington higher than surrounding cities?

Washington's rate of 6.500% is close to the District of Columbia statewide average of 6.00%. Some neighbors may be a fraction of a percent higher or lower.

Related calculators

District of Columbia Sales Tax (statewide)

State-level rates and rules for all of District of Columbia.

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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.