The 10 Highest Sales Tax States in 2026 (And How to Plan Around Them)

Highest Combined Sales Tax States

Tennessee: 9.47%

2. Louisiana: 9.45%

3. Arkansas: 9.24%

4. Washington: 8.88%

5. Alabama: 8.59%

6. Oklahoma: 8.43%

7. Illinois: 8.24%

8. New York: 8.23%

9. Kansas: 8.20%

10. California: 8.18%

How to Save

Buy groceries in states that exempt them, shop in lower-tax counties, and time major purchases strategically. Use our sales tax calculator for exact amounts.