What Is the Sales Tax Rate in Mesa, Arizona: Everything You Need to Know?

When it comes to making purchases, understanding the sales tax in your area can have a significant impact on your budget. For residents and visitors of Mesa, Arizona, knowing the local sales tax rate is crucial for making informed financial decisions, whether you’re shopping for everyday essentials or indulging in a little retail therapy. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Mesa’s economic landscape is vibrant and diverse, making it essential to stay informed about local taxes that can affect your spending.

In Mesa, the sales tax is a combination of state, county, and city rates, which can sometimes lead to confusion for those unfamiliar with the area. This tax is applied to a wide range of goods and services, influencing everything from grocery bills to restaurant tabs. Understanding the nuances of the sales tax system not only helps consumers plan their expenses but also supports local businesses by fostering transparency and trust in the community.

As we delve deeper into the specifics of Mesa’s sales tax, we’ll explore how it compares to other cities in Arizona, the types of transactions it covers, and any recent changes that may affect residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re a long-time Mesa resident or a newcomer to the area, this information will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the local economy with confidence.

Current Sales Tax Rate in Mesa, Arizona

The sales tax rate in Mesa, Arizona, is comprised of both state and local components. As of the latest data, the total sales tax rate in Mesa is 8.3%. This rate is a combination of the state sales tax, which is set at 5.6%, and the local sales tax levied by the city of Mesa, which adds an additional 2.7%.

Components of the Sales Tax

To better understand the sales tax structure in Mesa, it is helpful to break down the components:

State Sales Tax: 5.6%
City Sales Tax: 2.7%

This results in a comprehensive sales tax rate of 8.3% for consumers making purchases within the city.

Tax Type	Rate
State Sales Tax	5.6%
City Sales Tax	2.7%
Total Sales Tax	8.3%

Applicable Goods and Services

Sales tax in Mesa applies to a wide array of goods and services. The following categories are typically subject to the sales tax:

Retail Sales: Most tangible personal property sold at retail is taxable.
Food and Beverage: While grocery food sales are generally exempt, prepared food and beverages are subject to tax.
Utilities: Charges for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas are taxable.
Rental Services: Equipment rentals and certain service rentals may incur sales tax.

Exemptions and Special Cases

Certain items and services may be exempt from sales tax in Mesa, which includes but is not limited to:

Prescription Medications: These are exempt from sales tax.
Certain Medical Devices: Items deemed necessary for medical treatment may also be exempt.
Sales to Non-Profit Organizations: Certain sales to qualified non-profit entities may not be taxed.

Understanding these exemptions is crucial for both consumers and businesses to ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Payment and Reporting

For businesses operating in Mesa, it is essential to collect the appropriate sales tax and report it to the Arizona Department of Revenue. The tax is typically collected at the point of sale and must be remitted on a regular basis, depending on the volume of sales:

Monthly: For businesses with high sales volumes.
Quarterly: For businesses with moderate sales.
Annually: For smaller businesses with lower sales volumes.

Failure to accurately collect and report sales tax can lead to penalties and interest charges, emphasizing the importance of compliance.

Sales Tax Rate in Mesa, Arizona

The sales tax rate in Mesa, Arizona, is composed of several components, including state, county, and city taxes. As of the latest data, the total sales tax rate in Mesa is 8.3%. This includes:

State Sales Tax: 5.6%
Maricopa County Sales Tax: 0.7%
Mesa City Sales Tax: 2.0%

These components contribute to the overall sales tax rate that consumers encounter when making purchases.

Breakdown of Sales Tax Components

The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the sales tax components in Mesa:

Tax Component	Rate
State Sales Tax	5.6%
County Sales Tax	0.7%
City Sales Tax	2.0%
Total Sales Tax	8.3%

Types of Goods and Services Taxed

In Mesa, the sales tax applies to a variety of goods and services. Key categories include:

Retail Sales: Most physical goods sold in stores.
Prepared Foods: Meals from restaurants and fast food establishments.
Utilities: Charges for services like electricity, water, and gas.
Tangible Personal Property: Items such as furniture, electronics, and clothing.

Certain exemptions may apply to specific items or services, such as:

Prescription medications
Some agricultural products
Certain non-profit sales

Implications for Businesses

Businesses in Mesa must collect the appropriate sales tax from customers and remit it to the state. Compliance with local tax regulations is crucial to avoid penalties. Important considerations for businesses include:

Registration: Businesses must register for a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license with the Arizona Department of Revenue.
Record Keeping: Accurate records of all sales and taxes collected must be maintained.
Filing Requirements: Regular filing of TPT returns is mandatory, typically on a monthly or quarterly basis.

Recent Changes and Trends

Sales tax rates can change due to new legislation or local propositions. It’s advisable for consumers and businesses to stay informed about:

Local Initiatives: City or county propositions that may affect sales tax rates.
State Legislation: Changes in state tax law that may impact the overall tax environment.

For the most current information, individuals can visit the Arizona Department of Revenue website or consult local government resources.

Understanding Sales Tax in Mesa, Arizona

Jessica Morgan (Tax Policy Analyst, Arizona Department of Revenue). “The current sales tax rate in Mesa, Arizona, is 8.3%, which includes the state tax, city tax, and any applicable county taxes. It is essential for businesses and consumers to stay informed about these rates as they can impact purchasing decisions significantly.”

David Chen (Economic Consultant, Southwest Fiscal Group). “Sales tax in Mesa is a crucial revenue source for local government services. Understanding the breakdown of this tax can help residents appreciate where their money goes, including funding for education, infrastructure, and public safety.”

Linda Patel (Senior Accountant, Mesa Financial Services). “For businesses operating in Mesa, it is vital to comply with the sales tax regulations to avoid penalties. This includes correctly calculating the sales tax on transactions and ensuring timely remittance to the state and city authorities.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the current sales tax rate in Mesa, Arizona?
The current sales tax rate in Mesa, Arizona, is 8.3%. This rate includes both state and local taxes.

Are there any exemptions to the sales tax in Mesa?
Yes, certain items are exempt from sales tax in Mesa, such as groceries, prescription medications, and some services.

How is the sales tax in Mesa calculated?
Sales tax in Mesa is calculated as a percentage of the total sale price of taxable goods and services at the point of sale.

Does the sales tax rate vary within different areas of Mesa?
No, the sales tax rate is uniform across Mesa. However, surrounding areas may have different rates.

How often does the sales tax rate change in Mesa?
Sales tax rates can change based on legislative decisions, but any changes are typically announced in advance to allow businesses to adjust accordingly.

Where can I find more information about sales tax in Mesa?
More information about sales tax in Mesa can be found on the City of Mesa’s official website or the Arizona Department of Revenue’s website.
The sales tax in Mesa, Arizona, is a combination of state and local taxes. As of October 2023, the total sales tax rate in Mesa is 8.3%. This rate includes the Arizona state sales tax of 5.6% and a local Mesa tax of 2.7%. It is important for consumers and businesses to be aware of this rate when making purchases or planning business operations in the area.

Understanding the sales tax structure is crucial for both residents and visitors. The sales tax applies to a wide range of goods and services, and knowing the applicable rates can help individuals budget their expenses more effectively. Additionally, businesses must ensure compliance with these tax rates to avoid potential penalties.

In summary, the sales tax in Mesa is an important aspect of the local economy. It contributes to public services and infrastructure. Staying informed about the current rates and regulations can benefit consumers and businesses alike, promoting a better understanding of financial responsibilities in the region.

Author Profile

Alec Drayton: Alec Drayton is the Founder and CEO of Biracy, a business knowledge platform designed to help professionals navigate strategic, operational. And financial challenges across all stages of growth. With more than 15 years of experience in business development, market strategy, and organizational management, Alec brings a grounded, global perspective to the world of business information.

In 2025, Alec launched his personal writing journey as an extension of that belief. Through Biracy, he began sharing not just what he’d learned. But how he’d learned it through hands-on experience, success and failure, collaboration, and continuous learning. His aim was simple: to create a space where people could access reliable. Experience-driven insights on the many facets of business from strategy and growth to management, operations, investment thinking, and beyond.