How Rhode Island Sales Tax Works
Rhode Island's state government imposes a 7.00% sales tax on most retail purchases. Rhode Island does not allow local jurisdictions to add their own sales tax, so the 7.00% rate is uniform across the state.
Rhode Island has no local sales tax — the 7% state rate is uniform, and clothing under $250/item is fully exempt.
Groceries in Rhode Island
Rhode Island exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Clothing in Rhode Island
Rhode Island exempts clothing and footwear under $250 per item from sales tax.
How Rhode Island Compares to Neighboring States
Sales tax on a $1,000.00 purchase in Rhode Island versus neighboring states, using each state's average combined rate (state + local):
| State | State Rate | Combined Rate | Tax on $1,000 | vs. Rhode Island |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island (here) | 7.00% | 7.00% | $70.00 | — |
| Connecticut | 6.35% | 6.35% | $63.50 | -$6.50 |
| Massachusetts | 6.25% | 6.25% | $62.50 | -$7.50 |
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 Rhode Island sales tax rate for 2026?
Rhode Island's state sales tax rate is 7.00% for 2026. Rhode Island has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.
How much sales tax will I pay on a $100 purchase in Rhode Island?
On a $100 purchase, expect approximately $7.00 in state sales tax. Total cost: roughly $107.00.
Are groceries taxed in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island exempts unprepared groceries from sales tax.
Is clothing taxed in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island exempts clothing and footwear under $250 per item from sales tax.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island sales tax estimate calculated?
The calculator applies Rhode Island's 7.00% state sales tax rate to your purchase price. Rhode Island has no local sales tax, so this rate applies uniformly statewide.