Louisiana Sales Tax Calculator
Figure the tax, the total, or the pre-tax price for any U.S. state or city rate
Louisiana carries the highest average combined sales tax rate in the United States — 10.11% as of 2025, according to the Tax Foundation. That figure blends the 5% state base rate (raised from 4.45% on January 1, 2025 under tax reform bill HB 10) with an average 5.11% in local parish and municipal taxes levied across the state's 64 parishes.
Because local rates vary significantly by parish, the tax you actually pay depends on where the purchase takes place. New Orleans, for example, sits in Orleans Parish, which stacks multiple local levies on top of the state rate. Rural parishes may charge slightly less, but the statewide average still tops every other state in the country.
Worked example: Buy something for $100 in Louisiana at the average combined rate of 10.11% and you'll pay $10.11 in sales tax, for a total of $110.11 at the register.
One notable exemption: groceries purchased for home consumption are exempt from the 5% state sales tax, though local parish taxes may still apply to food. Prescription drugs are also exempt at the state level.
This calculator lets you enter any purchase amount and a sales tax rate. Use 10.11% for a statewide average estimate, or look up your specific parish rate for a more precise figure. It's a quick way to budget for a big purchase, compare costs across locations, or verify a receipt — but remember these are estimates and individual transactions may vary.
Practical example — Louisiana
A $500 appliance purchase in Louisiana at the 10.11% average combined rate adds $50.55 in sales tax, bringing your out-of-pocket total to $550.55 — illustrating why Louisiana shoppers pay more in sales tax than buyers in almost any other state.
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❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in Louisiana in 2025?
Louisiana's state sales tax rate is 5% as of January 1, 2025 (raised from 4.45% under HB 10). When you add average local parish and municipal taxes, the average combined rate is 10.11% — the highest of any state in the nation, according to the Tax Foundation.
Does Louisiana have local sales tax on top of the state rate?
Yes. Louisiana's 64 parishes and many municipalities each set their own local sales tax rates, which are added on top of the 5% state rate. The average local component is roughly 5.11%, pushing the statewide average combined rate to 10.11%. Your actual rate depends on the parish and city where you make the purchase.
Are groceries taxed in Louisiana?
Food purchased for home consumption is exempt from Louisiana's 5% state sales tax. However, many local parishes still impose their own sales tax on groceries, so you may still see some tax on your grocery receipt depending on where you shop. Prepared food (restaurants, fast food) is fully taxable.
Are prescription drugs exempt from Louisiana sales tax?
Yes. Prescription drugs are exempt from Louisiana state sales tax. Certain medical devices and items used for direct patient care may also qualify for exemptions. Non-prescription (over-the-counter) medications are generally taxable at the full rate.
Why does Louisiana have such a high combined sales tax rate?
Louisiana relies heavily on sales taxes because state law gives parishes and municipalities significant authority to levy their own local taxes. Many jurisdictions stack multiple special-purpose taxes (for schools, roads, etc.) on top of the state rate. This decentralized system has produced the highest average combined rate in the country for several consecutive years.