Pennsylvania sales tax rates
Pennsylvania keeps sales tax simple: a 6% state rate almost everywhere, with only two local additions - 1% in Allegheny County and 2% in Philadelphia. Pick a county to see the combined rate.
6% state. State rate only. Pennsylvania does not allow other local general sales taxes.
Example: a $100 taxable purchase in Chester costs $106.00 with tax.
What is taxable in Pennsylvania
PA taxes most tangible goods and some digital products and services. Notably exempt: most clothing, groceries (unprepared food), prescription drugs, and residential heating fuels. Prepared food, candy, and soft drinks are taxable. The state rate applies to the purchase price before shipping in most cases.
Why only two counties are higher
Pennsylvania does not let cities and counties add their own general sales taxes. The only exceptions are Allegheny County (a 1% local tax funding regional assets) and Philadelphia (a 2% city tax). Everywhere else, the rate is the flat 6% state tax.