Missouri Sales Tax Calculator 2026 — 4.22% Rate

Missouri Sales Tax Rate: State vs Combined

The Missouri state sales tax rate is 4.22%. However, most shoppers pay more than the state rate because counties and cities add their own local taxes on top. The average combined rate across all jurisdictions in Missouri is 8.38%, according to Tax Foundation 2026 data. This means a $100 purchase could cost between $104.22 (state only) and more in high-tax localities.

What Is and Isn't Taxed in Missouri

Missouri taxes groceries at the full 4.225% state rate, which is notable because most states exempt essential food items. Missouri taxes clothing purchases at the standard 4.225% state rate, plus any applicable local rates. Prescription drugs are also exempt from sales tax in Missouri.

How to Calculate Missouri Sales Tax

To calculate Missouri sales tax: multiply the purchase price by the applicable rate. For the state rate only: price × 4.22% = tax. For the combined rate: use 8.38% for an average estimate, or enter the exact local rate from your receipt or the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Example: a $200 purchase at the 8.38% combined rate = $16.76 in tax = $216.76 total.

Tips for Accurate Sales Tax Calculations

Always confirm the exact local rate for your specific city or county — the combined average (8.38%) is a statewide mean and may differ from your actual checkout rate. Large purchases like vehicles, appliances, or electronics are where the difference between state-only and combined rates matters most. Keep receipts that show the tax rate used; this helps verify correct tax was charged and supports any refund claims for exempt purchases. If you are making a business purchase, check whether your state offers a sales tax exemption certificate to avoid paying tax on resale items.

Missouri Special Categories: Groceries, Vehicles & City Rates

Missouri has unusual sales tax rules. Per the Missouri Department of Revenue (dor.mo.gov): groceries get a REDUCED state rate of 1.225% (not the standard 4.225%), but local taxes still apply on top, so a grocery purchase in Kansas City typically costs ~5% sales tax versus ~9-10% for prepared food. Motor vehicles use the buyer's home address rate, not the dealer's location rate, paid at title transfer. Major city rates: Kansas City ~9.5%, St. Louis ~9.7-11.7% (with Loop Trolley district), Springfield ~8.1%. Missouri also enacted economic nexus rules (Wayfair) requiring out-of-state sellers with $100,000+ in MO sales to collect tax. Updated 2026-06-17.