Illinois Sales Tax Calculator
Figure the tax, the total, or the pre-tax price for any U.S. state or city rate
Illinois levies a 6.25% state sales tax on most tangible personal property and some services. However, what shoppers actually pay at the register is almost always higher, because cities, counties, and transit districts layer on additional local taxes. The average combined sales tax rate across Illinois is 8.96%, according to the Tax Foundation — making it one of the higher combined-rate states in the Midwest.
Local rates vary considerably. In Chicago and most of Cook County, the combined rate sits at 10.25% (state 6.25% + county + city + RTA transit). Smaller downstate communities may be closer to 7–8%. Because of this spread, it's important to know the specific rate for the city or county where your purchase is made.
Worked example: Buy a $100 item in a typical Illinois location with the statewide average combined rate of 8.96%:
- Item price: $100.00
- Sales tax (8.96%): $8.96
- Total at checkout: $108.96
In Chicago at 10.25%, that same $100 item would cost $110.25 — a meaningful difference for large purchases.
Note on groceries: during 2025 Illinois applied a reduced 1% state rate on qualifying grocery items (eliminated at the state level starting January 1, 2026, though some municipalities may impose their own 1% local grocery tax).
To use this calculator, enter the purchase amount and the combined sales tax rate for your Illinois location, then click Calculate.
Practical example — Illinois
A shopper in Springfield, IL buying a $250 appliance at a combined rate of roughly 8.75% would pay about $21.88 in sales tax, for a total of $271.88 — while the same purchase in Chicago at 10.25% would add $25.63.
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❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in Illinois?
Illinois has a state sales tax rate of 6.25%. When local taxes (city, county, and transit district) are added, the average combined rate across the state is 8.96%. Rates vary by location — Chicago reaches 10.25%.
Does Illinois have local sales tax on top of the state rate?
Yes. Counties, municipalities, and regional transit districts can all add their own sales taxes on top of the 6.25% state base. Cook County adds 1.75%, and the City of Chicago adds further layers, pushing the combined rate to 10.25% in that city.
Are groceries taxed in Illinois?
Qualifying grocery items received a reduced 1% state tax rate throughout 2025. Starting January 1, 2026, the state eliminated its grocery tax entirely. However, some municipalities now have the option to impose a local 1% grocery tax, so residents should check their local rules. Soft drinks, candy, and non-food items are taxed at the full general merchandise rate.
How much is sales tax in Chicago?
Chicago has one of the highest sales tax rates of any major US city. The combined rate is 10.25%, made up of the 6.25% Illinois state rate plus Cook County, City of Chicago, and Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) add-ons.
Are there any sales tax exemptions in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois exempts or reduces tax on several categories: qualifying food and drugs typically carry a reduced rate, prescription medicines are exempt, and farm equipment and manufacturing machinery have reduced or exempt treatment. Most clothing and general merchandise are taxed at the full state rate of 6.25% plus applicable local taxes.