Pennsylvania sales tax is something every shopper in the Keystone State deals with regularly. Whether you’re buying electronics in Philadelphia or furniture in Pittsburgh, knowing the rates matters. However, Pennsylvania also offers some of the most generous exemptions in the country. Most clothing and groceries are completely tax-free. This guide covers every rate, exemption, and shopping strategy you need. Use it alongside our shopping guides to keep more money in your pocket.
Pennsylvania Sales Tax Rate: The Basics
The base Pennsylvania sales tax rate is 6.00%. This applies statewide to most taxable goods and services. However, two local jurisdictions add their own tax on top. Philadelphia adds 2%, bringing its total to 8%. Allegheny County adds 1%, making Pittsburgh’s rate 7%. The average combined rate across the state is 6.34%.
| Tax Component | Rate |
|---|---|
| Pennsylvania State Sales Tax | 6.00% |
| Average Local Tax | 0.34% |
| Average Combined Rate | 6.34% |
| Maximum Combined Rate (Philadelphia) | 8.00% |
Compared to the national average of about 5.09%, the Pennsylvania sales tax rate is above average. In addition, Philadelphia shoppers pay one of the higher combined rates in the Northeast. For example, a $500 laptop costs $540 in Philadelphia but only $530 in most other Pennsylvania cities.
What Pennsylvania Does and Does Not Tax
Pennsylvania sales tax does not apply to most everyday essentials. This is great news for budget-conscious shoppers. Specifically, most clothing, groceries, and medicines are completely exempt. However, prepared foods and restaurant meals are fully taxable. Knowing the difference can save you hundreds each year.
| Category | Taxed? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries (unprepared food) | No | Most food bought at grocery stores is exempt |
| Clothing and Shoes | No | Most everyday apparel is exempt |
| Prescription Drugs | No | All prescription medications are exempt |
| Over-the-Counter Medicine | No | Non-prescription drugs are also exempt |
| Candy and Gum | No | Exempt — including chocolate and hard candy |
| Prepared Food and Restaurant Meals | Yes | Taxed at full rate (6%–8%) |
| Electronics | Yes | Phones, computers, and TVs are all taxable |
| Furniture and Appliances | Yes | Taxed at full rate |
| Formal Wear Rentals | Yes | Tuxedo and gown rentals are taxable |
| Fur Clothing | Yes | Fur coats and accessories are taxable |
| Digital Downloads | Yes | Software and digital products are taxable |
The clothing exemption is especially generous. Unlike many states, Pennsylvania exempts nearly all everyday apparel. Shirts, pants, shoes, coats, and underwear are all tax-free. However, accessories like jewelry, handbags, and sunglasses are taxable. Sporting equipment such as cleats and pads is also taxed. As a result, Pennsylvania sales tax exemptions save shoppers real money on wardrobe basics versus neighboring New Jersey.
Pennsylvania Sales Tax by City and County
Pennsylvania sales tax varies depending on where you shop. Only two local jurisdictions charge extra. Philadelphia adds 2% and Allegheny County adds 1%. Every other city and county charges only the base 6% rate. This makes Pennsylvania simpler than states with dozens of local tax districts.
| City / County | State Rate | Local Rate | Combined Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 6.00% | 2.00% | 8.00% |
| Pittsburgh (Allegheny County) | 6.00% | 1.00% | 7.00% |
| Allentown | 6.00% | 0.00% | 6.00% |
| Erie | 6.00% | 0.00% | 6.00% |
| Reading | 6.00% | 0.00% | 6.00% |
| Scranton | 6.00% | 0.00% | 6.00% |
| Harrisburg | 6.00% | 0.00% | 6.00% |
| Lancaster | 6.00% | 0.00% | 6.00% |
For example, a $1,000 couch costs $1,080 in Philadelphia. That same couch costs $1,070 in Pittsburgh and just $1,060 in Harrisburg. If you live near a county line, shopping outside Philadelphia or Allegheny County saves real money on big purchases.
Pennsylvania Sales Tax Holidays
Pennsylvania does not currently offer any sales tax holidays. There is no back-to-school weekend or hurricane preparedness event. Several state legislators have introduced bills to create a tax holiday. However, none have passed into law as of 2026.
This matters less in Pennsylvania than in other states. Since clothing and shoes are already exempt year-round, shoppers don’t need a tax holiday for apparel. In addition, groceries and medicine are always tax-free. Check our best time to buy calendar for the best seasonal deals regardless of tax holidays.
If you want a true tax-free shopping experience, Delaware is just across the border. Delaware charges zero sales tax on everything. Popular destinations include the Christiana Mall and Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach. For big purchases like electronics or furniture, the trip can easily pay for itself.
Online Shopping and Pennsylvania Sales Tax
Pennsylvania sales tax applies to most online purchases. Since 2019, the state has required marketplace facilitators to collect and remit sales tax. As a result, Amazon, Walmart, eBay, and Etsy automatically charge Pennsylvania sales tax on your orders.
The rate you pay online depends on your shipping address. Pennsylvania uses destination-based sourcing for out-of-state sellers. Specifically, if you live in Philadelphia, you’ll pay 8%. A Pittsburgh address means 7%. Everywhere else in the state, you’ll pay the standard 6%.
The same exemptions apply online as in stores. Clothing and shoes purchased from Amazon are tax-free in Pennsylvania. However, electronics, home goods, and accessories are fully taxable. For the best deals on taxable items, combine sales with coupon stacking strategies and cashback apps to offset the tax.
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Smart Shopping Tips for Pennsylvania
1. Take advantage of the clothing exemption. Pennsylvania is one of few states where clothing is tax-free. Buy your wardrobe basics in-state rather than while traveling. You’ll save 4%–10% compared to most other states. A $200 winter coat that costs $216 in New York is just $200 here.
2. Cross the border to Delaware for big-ticket items. Delaware has zero sales tax on anything. If you’re buying a $2,000 TV or $5,000 in furniture, the trip saves $120 to $400. The Christiana Mall area is roughly 30 minutes from Philadelphia.
3. Shop outside Philadelphia for taxable items. Philadelphia’s 8% rate is the highest in the state. If you live near the city limits, a neighboring county saves you 2% on every taxable purchase. On a $1,000 appliance, that’s $20 back in your pocket.
4. Buy groceries and medicine in-state. These essentials are always tax-free in Pennsylvania. Stock up at local grocery stores and pharmacies. You’ll save compared to states that tax food, like Illinois or Virginia.
5. Time your purchases around retailer sales. Since Pennsylvania has no tax holidays, focus on store promotions instead. Use our complete guide to saving money online to find the best prices year-round. Combining a good sale with existing exemptions maximizes your savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax rate in Pennsylvania?
The statewide Pennsylvania sales tax rate is 6%. Philadelphia charges 8% total and Allegheny County charges 7% total. All other areas in the state pay the flat 6% rate with no local additions.
Are groceries taxed in Pennsylvania?
No. Most groceries are exempt from Pennsylvania sales tax. This includes unprepared food and beverages from grocery stores. However, prepared foods, restaurant meals, and catered items are taxable at the full rate.
Does Pennsylvania have a sales tax holiday?
No. Pennsylvania does not offer any sales tax holidays as of 2026. However, since clothing and groceries are already tax-free year-round, shoppers benefit from permanent exemptions that many other states only offer during limited holiday weekends.
Start Saving on Every Purchase
Now that you know your state’s sales tax rates, use that knowledge to time your purchases and stack savings. Combine tax-free shopping periods with cashback apps and coupon codes to keep more money in your pocket.
Official Sources
- Tax Foundation — state and local sales tax data
- IRS.gov — federal tax information
- FTC Consumer Information — shopping rights and protections
Rates current as of May 2026. Sales tax rates change periodically. Always verify current rates with your state’s revenue department.