Is there sales tax on groceries in Alaska?
Quick answer
Alaska has no general state sales tax, so groceries are untaxed at the state level.
Alaska has no general state sales tax, so groceries are not taxed at the state level.
Rule summary
How Alaska treats each category.
| Grocery food (home consumption) | Not taxed by the state |
|---|---|
| Prepared and restaurant food | Not taxed by the state |
| Candy and soft drinks | Not taxed by the state |
| Prescription medicine | Exempt |
Source: Alaska Department of Commerce (Alaska Municipal League rate tables) · rates as published for 2026
This page summarizes the general rule. Every state writes exceptions for specific products, and local jurisdictions can differ from the state treatment. Confirm your situation with the Alaska Department of Commerce (Alaska Municipal League rate tables) or a tax professional before relying on it for filing.
Combined rates in Alaska
What a taxable purchase actually costs in Alaska.
Frequently asked
Answers pulled from the same rule set.
- Is there sales tax on groceries in Alaska?
- Alaska has no general state sales tax, so groceries are untaxed at the state level.
- Is prepared food taxed differently than groceries in Alaska?
- Yes. Alaska treats hot, ready-to-eat and restaurant food as a taxable retail sale even where unprepared grocery food is exempt or reduced.
- Are prescription drugs taxable in Alaska?
- No. Prescription medicine is exempt from sales tax in Alaska.
More Alaska guides
Other Alaska rules that change the total.