How Connecticut Sales Tax Works
Connecticut's state government imposes a 6.35% sales tax on most retail purchases. Connecticut does not allow local jurisdictions to add their own sales tax, so the 6.35% rate is uniform across the state.
Connecticut has no local sales tax — the 6.35% state rate is what you pay statewide, with luxury goods and prepared meals taxed at higher rates (7.75% on prepared meals).
Groceries in Connecticut
Connecticut exempts most unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Clothing in Connecticut
Connecticut taxes most clothing at the standard 6.35% rate; clothing under $50 was exempt prior to 2011 but is no longer.
Sales Tax Holidays in Connecticut
Connecticut runs a sales tax holiday in mid-August on clothing and footwear under $100 per item.
How Connecticut Compares to Neighboring States
Sales tax on a $1,000.00 purchase in Connecticut versus neighboring states, using each state's average combined rate (state + local):
| State | State Rate | Combined Rate | Tax on $1,000 | vs. Connecticut |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut (here) | 6.35% | 6.35% | $63.50 | — |
| New York | 4.00% | 8.53% | $85.30 | +$21.80 |
| Massachusetts | 6.25% | 6.25% | $62.50 | -$1.00 |
| Rhode Island | 7.00% | 7.00% | $70.00 | +$6.50 |
A negative "vs." figure means a lower sales tax bill on the same purchase. Specific addresses can vary materially from the state-wide average.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Connecticut sales tax rate for 2026?
Connecticut's state sales tax rate is 6.35% for 2026. Connecticut has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.
How much sales tax will I pay on a $100 purchase in Connecticut?
On a $100 purchase, expect approximately $6.35 in state sales tax. Total cost: roughly $106.35.
Are groceries taxed in Connecticut?
Connecticut exempts most unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Is clothing taxed in Connecticut?
Connecticut taxes most clothing at the standard 6.35% rate; clothing under $50 was exempt prior to 2011 but is no longer.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts in Connecticut?
Connecticut follows the standard rule used by virtually all states: sales tax is calculated on the final discounted price, not the original price. If a $200 item is on sale for $150, you pay sales tax on $150. Manufacturer coupons can be treated differently in some states.
How is this Connecticut sales tax estimate calculated?
The calculator applies Connecticut's 6.35% state sales tax rate to your purchase price. Connecticut has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.