Pennsylvania Sales Tax Calculator
Figure the tax, the total, or the pre-tax price for any U.S. state or city rate
Pennsylvania levies a 6% state sales tax on most tangible goods and some services — one of the more straightforward tax structures in the Northeast. The average combined state and local rate across the commonwealth is 6.34%, because only two jurisdictions impose a local sales tax on top of the state rate: Philadelphia (2% local add-on, bringing its total to 8%) and Allegheny County, which includes Pittsburgh (1% local add-on, bringing its total to 7%). Every other county and municipality in Pennsylvania collects exactly the 6% state rate with no local surcharge.
Pennsylvania also has several important exemptions worth knowing. Most unprepared groceries (food you buy at a supermarket to cook at home) are exempt from sales tax, as are most clothing and footwear — a significant benefit compared to many states. Prescription drugs, insulin, and many medical devices are also exempt. However, restaurant meals, catered food, and ready-to-eat prepared foods are taxable at the full 6% (or higher in Philly and Allegheny).
Worked example: You buy a $100 jacket at a store in Harrisburg, which is outside Philadelphia and Allegheny County. Because clothing is exempt in Pennsylvania, you pay $0 in sales tax. But if you buy a $100 electronic gadget in the same store, you owe $6.00 in sales tax (6% × $100). In Philadelphia, that same gadget would cost you $8.00 in tax.
Use this calculator to quickly find the exact tax amount and total price for any purchase anywhere in Pennsylvania — just enter the item price and select the applicable rate for your location.
Practical example — Pennsylvania
A $250 laptop purchased in Pittsburgh (Allegheny County) carries a 7% combined sales tax, adding $17.50 for a total price of $267.50 — compared to $265.00 at the flat 6% state rate elsewhere in Pennsylvania.
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❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's state sales tax rate is 6%. Most of the state pays only this 6% rate. The exceptions are Philadelphia (8% combined, due to a 2% city tax) and Allegheny County including Pittsburgh (7% combined, due to a 1% county tax). The statewide average combined rate is approximately 6.34%.
Does Pennsylvania have local sales taxes?
Yes, but only in two places. Philadelphia adds a 2% local sales tax on top of the 6% state rate, for a total of 8%. Allegheny County (Pittsburgh area) adds 1%, for a total of 7%. All other counties and municipalities in Pennsylvania collect only the state 6% rate — there is no local add-on anywhere else in the commonwealth.
Are groceries taxed in Pennsylvania?
Most grocery items purchased for home preparation are exempt from Pennsylvania sales tax. This includes produce, meat, dairy, bread, and packaged foods you cook yourself. However, prepared and ready-to-eat food sold by restaurants, delis, cafeterias, and caterers is taxable at the full applicable rate.
Is clothing taxable in Pennsylvania?
No — most clothing and footwear for everyday wear is exempt from Pennsylvania sales tax. This is a notable advantage compared to states like New York (which only exempts clothing under $110 per item) or New Jersey. Exceptions include formal wear rented for a specific event and most sports or athletic equipment.
Are prescription drugs taxed in Pennsylvania?
No. Prescription drugs, insulin, prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, prosthetic devices, and many medical supplies are exempt from Pennsylvania sales tax. Over-the-counter medications are generally taxable, although some states treat them differently.