Tennessee Sales Tax Calculator
Figure the tax, the total, or the pre-tax price for any U.S. state or city rate
Tennessee collects sales tax at a state base rate of 7% — one of the highest state-level rates in the country. On top of that, counties and cities are permitted to add local sales taxes of up to 2.75%, pushing the average combined state and local rate to 9.61% (Tax Foundation, 2025). That puts Tennessee among the top two highest combined sales-tax states in the nation, just behind Louisiana.
In practice, the rate you pay depends on where you make the purchase. Memphis and Nashville area counties often sit at the maximum combined rate of 9.75%, while a handful of rural counties come in slightly lower. Groceries get a break: the state taxes food and food ingredients (basic staples like bread, milk, and fresh produce) at a reduced 4% state rate, though local taxes still apply on top.
Worked example — $100 purchase at the average combined rate:
- Purchase price: $100.00
- Sales tax (9.61%): $9.61
- Total at register: $109.61
If you are in Nashville (Davidson County, 9.25%) buying $250 in electronics:
- Sales tax: $23.13 → Total: $273.13
To use this calculator, enter the purchase amount in dollars and confirm or adjust the tax rate for your city. The default is pre-filled with the 9.61% statewide average. Results are estimates — always confirm the exact local rate with the Tennessee Department of Revenue for precise compliance.
Practical example — Tennessee
A shopper in Nashville buying $500 in electronics at the Davidson County rate of 9.25% pays $46.25 in sales tax, for a total of $546.25 at the register.
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❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a 7% state base sales tax rate. When local county and city taxes are added, the average combined rate is 9.61% as of 2025 (per Tax Foundation data). Some localities reach as high as 9.75%.
Does Tennessee have local sales tax on top of the state rate?
Yes. Tennessee counties and municipalities can levy additional local sales taxes up to 2.75%. Most major urban areas — including Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga — charge local rates between 2.25% and 2.75%, pushing the total well above the 7% state rate.
Are groceries taxed in Tennessee?
Yes, but at a reduced rate. Basic food and food ingredients (bread, milk, fresh produce, etc.) are taxed at 4% at the state level rather than the standard 7%. Local sales taxes still apply on top of that reduced rate. Prepared foods, candy, and soft drinks are taxed at the full combined rate.
What items are exempt from Tennessee sales tax?
Prescription drugs are exempt from Tennessee sales tax. Certain agricultural inputs, manufacturing machinery, and qualifying nonprofit purchases may also be exempt. Tennessee holds annual tax-free weekends — typically in late July for clothing and school supplies, and for certain energy-efficient appliances.
Is Tennessee sales tax the same statewide?
No. The 7% state portion is uniform, but local add-ons vary by county and city. For example, Shelby County (Memphis) charges 2.25% local tax for a 9.25% combined rate, while many other counties hit the 2.75% maximum for a 9.75% combined rate. Always check the rate for the specific location of the purchase.