South Carolina Sales Tax Calculator
2026Calculate sales tax in South Carolina. South Carolina has a 6% state sales tax rate plus local surcharges that vary by jurisdiction. Based on current SC rates.
Written and reviewed by Konstantin Iakovlev · Methodology · Updated
Total Tax
$8.00
Total with Tax
$108.00
Combined Rate
8.000%
Tax Breakdown
| State Tax (6.00%) | $6.00 |
| Local Tax (2.00%) | $2.00 |
| Total Sales Tax | $8.00 |
| Total with Tax | $108.00 |
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.
How does sales tax work in South Carolina?
South Carolina levies a state sales tax of 6%. Counties, cities, and special districts can layer local surcharges on top, with combined rates commonly running 1–5 percentage points above the state rate in major metros. Most states exempt unprepared groceries and prescription drugs; clothing, prepared food, and digital goods vary by state. Use the calculator to apply your local combined rate to any purchase amount.
South Carolina sales tax exemptions and tax holidays
- Groceries
- Exempt from state sales tax (counties may tax)
- Clothing
- Fully taxable at standard rate
- Prescription drugs
- Exempt
- Sales tax holiday
- Annual first-weekend August Sales Tax Holiday (clothing, school supplies, computers — no value cap)
South Carolina's state sales tax is 6.0% with most counties adding 1%–3% local option, bringing combined rates to 7.0%–9.0% (Charleston 9.0%). SC hosts an annual Sales Tax Holiday the first Friday-Sunday of August covering clothing, school supplies, computers, accessories, and bed/bath linens — uniquely with NO value cap (the most generous holiday list in the South). Use-tax compliance via Form ST-3 or Schedule WH.
South Carolina Sales Tax Details (2026)
| State Sales Tax Rate | 6% |
| Local Sales-Tax Surcharges | Yes (varies by jurisdiction) |
| State Income Tax | progressive (up to 6.0%) |
| Avg. Property Tax Rate | 0.56% |
South Carolina sales tax — frequently asked questions
Which US states have no sales tax?
Five states have no statewide sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. However, Alaska allows local jurisdictions to charge sales tax.
What is the average sales tax rate in the US?
The average combined state and local sales tax rate is about 6.6%. Rates range from 0% in tax-free states to over 10% in some cities in Tennessee, Louisiana, and Washington state.
Are groceries taxed in every state?
No. Most states exempt groceries from sales tax or tax them at a reduced rate. States that fully tax groceries include Alabama, Mississippi, and South Dakota, though some offer offsetting credits for lower-income residents.