How South Carolina Sales Tax Works
South Carolina's state government imposes a 6.00% 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 7.50% statewide.
South Carolina's 6% state rate plus 1-2.5% local rates produces moderate combined burdens; seniors 85+ also receive a 1% sales tax discount.
Groceries in South Carolina
South Carolina exempts unprepared groceries from the state sales tax; some local sales taxes may still apply to food.
Sales Tax Holidays in South Carolina
South Carolina runs a sales tax holiday on the first weekend of August covering clothing, school supplies, and computers.
How South Carolina Compares to Neighboring States
Sales tax on a $1,000.00 purchase in South Carolina versus neighboring states, using each state's average combined rate (state + local):
| State | State Rate | Combined Rate | Tax on $1,000 | vs. South Carolina |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina (here) | 6.00% | 7.50% | $75.00 | — |
| North Carolina | 4.75% | 7.00% | $70.00 | -$5.00 |
| Georgia | 4.00% | 7.40% | $74.00 | -$1.00 |
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 South Carolina sales tax rate for 2026?
South Carolina's state sales tax rate is 6.00% for 2026. When combined with the average local sales tax of 1.50%, most South Carolina residents pay a typical combined rate of 7.50%.
How much sales tax will I pay on a $100 purchase in South Carolina?
On a $100 purchase, expect approximately $6.00 in state sales tax, or about $7.50 including average local sales tax (combined 7.50%). Total cost: roughly $107.50.
Are groceries taxed in South Carolina?
South Carolina exempts unprepared groceries from the state sales tax; some local sales taxes may still apply to food.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts in South Carolina?
South Carolina 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 South Carolina sales tax estimate calculated?
The calculator applies South Carolina's 6.00% 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 South Carolina's Department of Revenue tool.