The current sales tax rate in Los Angeles County is 9.5%

Los Angeles County's sales tax is 9.5% as of 2024. This rate applies to most retail purchases within the county's unincorporated areas and most incorporated cities. The rate is made up of the state base rate plus county and local additions, and it varies slightly by city — some cities add their own local tax on top of the county rate, which can push the total to 9.625% or higher depending on where you shop.

The 9.5% figure is what you will see on most receipts in Los Angeles, Long Beach, and the surrounding areas. However, the exact rate you pay depends on your specific city or neighborhood, because Los Angeles County allows individual cities to levy their own local sales taxes in addition to the state and county portions.

Key Takeaways

  • Los Angeles County's base sales tax is 9.5%, but individual cities may add local taxes that raise the rate to 9.625% or higher.
  • The state of California sets a 7.25% base rate, and Los Angeles County adds 1.25% on top of that.
  • Different cities within the county can have different final rates, so the tax you pay depends on where the purchase happens.
  • Sales tax applies to most tangible goods but not to groceries, prescription medications, or most services.

How the 9.5% rate breaks down

California's sales tax is built in layers. The state collects a base rate of 7.25%, which is split between the state (6.25%) and county funds (1%). Los Angeles County then adds an additional 0.25%, bringing the county portion to 1.25% total. This combination — 6.25% state plus 1.25% county — equals 9.5%.

On top of this, many cities in Los Angeles County have voted to add their own local sales taxes. These local rates typically range from 0.125% to 0.5%, which is why you might see 9.625%, 9.75%, or even 10% on a receipt depending on which city you are in. The city tax goes directly to that city's general fund or specific projects like transit or homelessness services.

Which cities have higher rates

Los Angeles city itself charges 9.5% — the county base with no additional city tax. However, nearby cities like Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Long Beach have added their own local taxes. Santa Monica's rate is 10.25%, and Long Beach is 10.25% as well. Smaller cities throughout the county vary, with some at 9.5% and others at 9.625% or 9.75%.

If you shop near the county borders, the rate can drop. Orange County to the south has a lower base rate, and Ventura County to the north also differs. The difference is usually less than 1%, but it matters on large purchases. You can check your specific city's rate by searching "[your city name] sales tax" or by looking at a recent receipt from that location.

What is and is not taxed

Sales tax applies to most tangible goods — clothing, electronics, furniture, and household items. However, certain items are exempt. Groceries (unprepared food) are not taxed in California, which includes items from the grocery store like bread, milk, vegetables, and canned goods. Prepared food from restaurants and food courts is taxed.

Prescription medications are also exempt from sales tax. Over-the-counter medicines like pain relievers and cold medicine are taxed, but prescription drugs are not. Services — haircuts, repairs, medical visits — are generally not subject to sales tax, though some specific services like hotel stays and car rentals have their own taxes.

Sales tax on online and out-of-state purchases

If you buy something online from a retailer that has a physical presence in California, sales tax is collected at checkout. Large retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target collect California sales tax on orders shipped to Los Angeles County addresses. The rate applied is based on the delivery address, not where the retailer is located.

If you buy from a small out-of-state seller with no California presence, they may not collect sales tax at the time of purchase. However, California residents are technically responsible for paying "use tax" on those purchases — it is the same rate as sales tax and is meant to level the playing field. Most people do not pay use tax voluntarily, but it remains a legal obligation.

How sales tax affects your budget

On a $100 purchase in Los Angeles, you will pay $9.50 in sales tax, bringing your total to $109.50. On a $1,000 purchase, that is $95 in tax. The tax adds up quickly on large items like appliances, furniture, or electronics. When you are budgeting for a major purchase, remember to factor in the full 9.5% (or your specific city's rate) on top of the listed price.

For regular grocery shopping, the exemption on unprepared food means your actual tax burden is lower than the headline rate suggests. A $100 grocery bill with mostly unprepared food might have only $5 to $10 in taxable items, so your real tax rate is much lower than 9.5%.

When the rate changes

California's state sales tax rate has remained at 7.25% since 2013. Los Angeles County's 1.25% portion has been stable as well. However, individual cities can vote to add or modify their local taxes, which means some cities' rates may shift over time. These changes are usually announced well in advance and voted on by residents.

If you live or shop in Los Angeles County, it is worth checking your city's official website or a recent receipt to confirm the exact rate in your area. Rates do not change frequently, but they can vary by neighborhood, and knowing the precise number helps with budgeting and understanding your receipts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sales tax the same everywhere in Los Angeles County?

No. The base rate is 9.5%, but individual cities can add their own local taxes. Santa Monica and Long Beach are 10.25%, while Los Angeles city is 9.5%. Check your receipt or your city's website to confirm your exact rate.

Do I pay sales tax on groceries?

No. Unprepared food like bread, milk, vegetables, and canned goods is exempt. Prepared food from restaurants, bakeries, and deli counters is taxed. Hot food and food served ready-to-eat is always taxed.

Why is my receipt total higher than the price tag?

The price tag shows the pre-tax price. Sales tax of 9.5% (or your city's rate) is added at checkout. On a $50 item, you will pay $54.75 in Los Angeles. Always budget for the full amount including tax.

Do I owe sales tax on online purchases?

If the retailer has a California location or warehouse, they collect sales tax at checkout. If they do not, you are technically responsible for use tax, but most people do not pay it. Large online retailers now collect California tax on all orders.

Can sales tax rates change?

State and county rates are stable, but cities can vote to add or modify local taxes. Changes are rare and announced in advance. Check your city's website or a recent receipt if you want to confirm the current rate in your area.