How Maine Sales Tax Works
Maine's state government imposes a 5.50% sales tax on most retail purchases. Maine does not allow local jurisdictions to add their own sales tax, so the 5.50% rate is uniform across the state.
Maine has no local sales tax — the 5.5% state rate applies statewide. Prepared food and lodging are taxed at higher rates (8% prepared meals, 9% lodging).
Groceries in Maine
Maine exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax.
How Maine Compares to Neighboring States
Sales tax on a $1,000.00 purchase in Maine versus neighboring states, using each state's average combined rate (state + local):
| State | State Rate | Combined Rate | Tax on $1,000 | vs. Maine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine (here) | 5.50% | 5.50% | $55.00 | — |
| New Hampshire | None | None | $0.00 | -$55.00 |
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 Maine sales tax rate for 2026?
Maine's state sales tax rate is 5.50% for 2026. Maine has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.
How much sales tax will I pay on a $100 purchase in Maine?
On a $100 purchase, expect approximately $5.50 in state sales tax. Total cost: roughly $105.50.
Are groceries taxed in Maine?
Maine exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts in Maine?
Maine 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 Maine sales tax estimate calculated?
The calculator applies Maine's 5.50% state sales tax rate to your purchase price. Maine has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.