North Carolina Sales Tax Calculator 2026
Figures verified
The North Carolina state sales tax is 4.75%, and the average shopper pays 7.1% once local taxes are added. Calculate the tax on any purchase, or work backwards from a receipt total.
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Sales tax on $100.00 at 7.1% is $7.10, for a total of $107.10.
Total with tax
$107.10
at 7.1% combined rate
- Sales tax
- $7.10
- Pre-tax price
- $100.00
- State rate
- 4.75%
- Avg. local rate
- 2.35%
- max 3.5%
North Carolina sales tax explained
North Carolina charges a 4.75% state sales tax. Cities, counties, and special districts add their own rates, up to 3.5% more, so the combined rate depends on where the sale happens. Weighted by population, the average combined rate is 7.1%, ranking #22 of the 50 states and D.C.
Groceries are exempt from the state sales tax in North Carolina, but local sales taxes may still apply to them.
- Groceries are exempt from the state rate but subject to a uniform 2% local rate.
Quick reference at 7.1%
| Price | Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $25.00 | $1.78 | $26.78 |
| $100.00 | $7.10 | $107.10 |
| $500.00 | $35.50 | $535.50 |
| $1,500.00 | $106.50 | $1,606.50 |
| $30,000.00 | $2,130.00 | $32,130.00 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in North Carolina?
The North Carolina state sales tax rate is 4.75%. Local rates add up to 3.5%, and the average shopper pays a combined 7.1%. That ranks North Carolina #22 of 51 for average combined rate.
Are groceries taxed in North Carolina?
Groceries are exempt from the state sales tax in North Carolina, but local sales taxes may still apply to them.
How much is sales tax on a $30,000 car in North Carolina?
At the average combined rate of 7.1%, tax on a $30,000 purchase would be about $2,130. Many states tax vehicles differently: some apply only the state rate, cap the tax, or allow a trade-in credit. Check the North Carolina motor vehicle agency for the exact rule.
How do I back out sales tax from a total?
Switch on "I know the total" above, or divide the total by 1 plus the rate. For example, a $108.25 receipt at 8.25% is $100.00 before tax.
Data sources & last verified
Last verified
- Tax Foundation, 2026 Sales Tax Rates, Midyear Update (state and average local rates as of July 1, 2026) (opens in new tab) Retrieved · effective July 1, 2026
We re-check these figures when agencies publish updates and at least quarterly. See our data policy for how corrections are handled, or report an error.