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Iowa sales tax Calculator

Iowa has a 6% state sales tax rate, and most cities and counties have adopted an additional 1% local option sales tax (LOST), making the effective combined rate 7% across most of the state. Iowa updated its local option tax landscape in January 2026, with several jurisdictions removing sunset clauses to make their local taxes permanent.

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Rates updated for May 2026

This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for your specific situation. Rates last verified May 2026.

Verify rates on May 2026

How it's calculated

Price × 0.07 = sales tax owed (most Iowa counties example)
1

Start with the purchase price: $20,000.00

2

Multiply by the combined tax rate to get the tax amount: $1,400.00

3

Add tax to the purchase price for the total amount due: $21,400.00

Iowa sales tax rates by county

LocationCombined rate
Polk County (Des Moines)7%
Linn County (Cedar Rapids)7%
Scott County (Davenport)7%
Johnson County (Iowa City)7%
Black Hawk County (Waterloo)7%
Woodbury County (Sioux City)7%
Dubuque County7%
Story County (Ames)7%

Common examples in Iowa

Based on county rates shown above. Select your county in the calculator for a precise result.

Used car purchase

$12,000.00 purchase

$840.00

tax owed

New car purchase

$28,000.00 purchase

$1,960.00

tax owed

Electronics (laptop)

$1,000.00 purchase

$70.00

tax owed

Home appliance

$600.00 purchase

$42.00

tax owed

Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax rate in Iowa?
Iowa's state sales tax rate is 6%. Most Iowa cities and counties have adopted a 1% local option sales tax (LOST), bringing the effective combined rate to 7% across the majority of the state. A small number of rural areas without a local option tax pay only the 6% state rate.
What is the sales tax rate in Des Moines, Iowa?
Des Moines is in Polk County, which has a combined sales tax rate of 7% — the 6% state rate plus a 1% local option sales tax. This is the standard rate for most major Iowa cities including Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Iowa City, and Waterloo.
Does Iowa have a sales tax holiday?
No. Iowa does not have a general sales tax holiday or tax-free weekend.
What is exempt from sales tax in Iowa?
Iowa exempts most unprepared groceries and prescription drugs from sales tax. Farm machinery and equipment used directly in agricultural production is also exempt. Most clothing is taxable in Iowa — unlike neighboring Minnesota and Illinois where clothing has different treatment.
Is clothing taxable in Iowa?
Yes. Most clothing and footwear is fully taxable in Iowa at the standard combined rate. Iowa does not have a clothing exemption, unlike neighboring states Minnesota (which permanently exempts clothing) or Illinois.
Do you pay sales tax on a used car in Iowa?
Iowa charges a one-time registration fee instead of traditional sales tax on vehicle purchases. This fee is 5% of the purchase price for most vehicles and is paid at the time of registration at the county treasurer's office. It replaces the standard 6%–7% sales tax rate that would otherwise apply.

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