The Louisiana (LA) state sales tax rate is currently 4.45%, ranking 38th-highest in the U.S. Depending on local municipalities, the total tax rate can be as high as 11.45%. The average local rate is 5%. The average combined tax rate is 9.107%, ranking 2nd in the US.

Louisiana has a sales tax at both the state and the parish (county) level. The parishes in Louisiana do not follow the exemptions provided at the state level for some items.

Local taxes apply to both intra-state and inter-state transactions.

Use tax is levied on the use, consumption, distribution, or storage for use or consumption in Louisiana of any tangible personal property.

In Louisiana, food for further preparation and home consumption, candy and beverage products for home consumption, and prescription drugs are exempt from state sales and use tax but are subject to local sales taxes.

Louisiana has annual severe weather sales tax holiday (May 26-27, 2018). A 2% state sales tax reduction applies to first $1500 of the sales price of hurricane preparedness supplies.