The "LAX tax" typically refers to the sales tax applied in Los Angeles County, where Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located. The exact sales tax rate in Los Angeles County is 6.25%.
This rate is a combination of the statewide California sales tax and additional local district taxes specific to Los Angeles County. When you make purchases of most tangible goods within Los Angeles County, this is the rate that will be applied.
Understanding Los Angeles County Sales Tax
The sales tax rate in Los Angeles County is composed of two primary components:
- California State Sales Tax: This is the base rate applied across the entire state of California.
- Los Angeles County Sales Tax: This is an additional district tax specific to Los Angeles County.
Here's a breakdown of the current components:
| Tax Component | Rate |
|---|---|
| California State Sales Tax | 6.0% |
| Los Angeles County Sales Tax | 0.25% |
| Total Los Angeles County Sales Tax | 6.25% |
Rates are subject to change based on legislative decisions and local ballot measures. For the most up-to-date information, it's always best to consult official sources.
What the Sales Tax Applies To
The 6.25% sales tax rate in Los Angeles County generally applies to:
- Retail Sales of Tangible Personal Property: This includes most physical goods purchased, such as clothing, electronics, books, and household items.
- Certain Services: While most services are not taxed, some specific services that are considered part of the sale of tangible goods (e.g., fabrication labor) may be subject to sales tax.
For example, if you purchase a souvenir at the airport or groceries (non-exempt items) from a store within Los Angeles County, you would pay this 6.25% sales tax on your purchase.
Why This Matters for LAX Visitors and Residents
Whether you are a visitor arriving at LAX or a resident of Los Angeles, understanding the local sales tax rate is crucial for budgeting and knowing the final cost of your purchases. This rate is uniform throughout Los Angeles County, including areas immediately surrounding LAX.
For further details on California sales tax rates by county, you can refer to resources like Avalara's California Sales Tax Rates.
