How Missouri Sales Tax Works
Missouri's state government imposes a 4.22% sales tax on most retail purchases. Counties, cities, and special districts can layer additional local sales tax on top — pushing combined rates to a population-weighted average of 8.44% statewide.
Missouri has one of the lowest state base rates in the country (4.225%), but local jurisdictions add an unusually high average — pushing combined rates above 8%.
Groceries in Missouri
Missouri taxes groceries at a reduced 1.225% state rate; local sales taxes still apply at full strength.
How Missouri Compares to Neighboring States
Sales tax on a $1,000.00 purchase in Missouri versus neighboring states, using each state's average combined rate (state + local):
| State | State Rate | Combined Rate | Tax on $1,000 | vs. Missouri |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri (here) | 4.22% | 8.44% | $84.40 | — |
| Iowa | 6.00% | 6.94% | $69.40 | -$15.00 |
| Illinois | 6.25% | 8.98% | $89.80 | +$5.40 |
| Kentucky | 6.00% | 6.00% | $60.00 | -$24.40 |
| Tennessee | 7.00% | 9.61% | $96.10 | +$11.70 |
| Arkansas | 6.50% | 9.48% | $94.80 | +$10.40 |
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 Missouri sales tax rate for 2026?
Missouri's state sales tax rate is 4.22% for 2026. When combined with the average local sales tax of 4.22%, most Missouri residents pay a typical combined rate of 8.44%.
How much sales tax will I pay on a $100 purchase in Missouri?
On a $100 purchase, expect approximately $4.23 in state sales tax, or about $8.44 including average local sales tax (combined 8.44%). Total cost: roughly $108.44.
Are groceries taxed in Missouri?
Missouri taxes groceries at a reduced 1.225% state rate; local sales taxes still apply at full strength.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts in Missouri?
Missouri 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 Missouri sales tax estimate calculated?
The calculator applies Missouri's 4.22% state sales tax rate plus whatever local rate you enter (city + county + special districts). The default Local Rate is 0%; click a city in the table above to fill in its local portion, or look up your specific address with the Missouri Department of Revenue tool.