How Maryland Sales Tax Works
Maryland's state government imposes a 6.00% sales tax on most retail purchases. Maryland does not allow local jurisdictions to add their own sales tax, so the 6.00% rate is uniform across the state.
Maryland has no local sales tax — only the 6% state rate (alcoholic beverages are taxed at 9%).
Groceries in Maryland
Maryland exempts most unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Sales Tax Holidays in Maryland
Maryland holds Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week each August on clothing and footwear under $100.
How Maryland Compares to Neighboring States
Sales tax on a $1,000.00 purchase in Maryland versus neighboring states, using each state's average combined rate (state + local):
| State | State Rate | Combined Rate | Tax on $1,000 | vs. Maryland |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland (here) | 6.00% | 6.00% | $60.00 | — |
| Delaware | None | None | $0.00 | -$60.00 |
| Pennsylvania | 6.00% | 6.34% | $63.40 | +$3.40 |
| Virginia | 4.30% | 5.77% | $57.70 | -$2.30 |
| West Virginia | 6.00% | 6.57% | $65.70 | +$5.70 |
| Washington D.C. | 6.00% | 6.00% | $60.00 | $0.00 |
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 Maryland sales tax rate for 2026?
Maryland's state sales tax rate is 6.00% for 2026. Maryland has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.
How much sales tax will I pay on a $100 purchase in Maryland?
On a $100 purchase, expect approximately $6.00 in state sales tax. Total cost: roughly $106.00.
Are groceries taxed in Maryland?
Maryland exempts most unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts in Maryland?
Maryland 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 Maryland sales tax estimate calculated?
The calculator applies Maryland's 6.00% state sales tax rate to your purchase price. Maryland has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.