What Is Columbus Ohio Sales Tax?

The sales tax in Columbus is 8.00% on most retail purchases. That total is made up of 5.75% state sales tax, 1.25% Franklin County sales tax, and 1.00% Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) sales tax.

You’ll see this rate at most stores within the city. For shipped or delivered orders, Ohio sources the tax to where you receive the item, so the rate follows the delivery address. Addresses within Franklin County that are inside the COTA district use the combined 8.00% rate.

Some purchases are not taxed. In Ohio, many groceries meant for home consumption and prescription drugs are generally exempt, while prepared food, soft drinks, alcohol, and most other goods remain taxable.

If you need the exact rate for a specific address or a shipped order, use a current address-based lookup from the state tax department or ask the retailer to confirm before you pay.

Published: September 9, 2026 · Reviewed by the Whats Up Columbus editorial team