A New Era at the Checkout in the U.S.: Shopping Is Now More Expensive
The bill for shopping in Los Angeles is ballooning! As of October 1, sales tax rose to 10.25%, and in some cities the rate exceeded 11%. Residents fighting the cost of living will now pay more at the register for many purchases.
While debates over the cost of living continue in the U.S. state of California, a new tax regulation that will directly affect consumers in Los Angeles County has taken effect. As of October 1, the sales‑tax rate across the region rose from 9.75 % to 10.25 %. In some cities, the total rate has climbed to 11 % or more.
The decision that emerged from the ballot went into effect on October 1.
The tax increase was implemented under “Measure ER,” which voters approved in June. The regulation added a half‑percentage point to the sales tax across Los Angeles County.
The new rate has been in effect since October 1, 2026. However, the total sales tax that consumers will pay varies by city. In places such as Santa Monica, Pasadena, and West Hollywood, the combined rate reaches 11 % or higher.
Tax revenues will be used for health services.
The revenue generated under Measure ER is planned to be transferred to Los Angeles County’s general fund.
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the spending plan will prioritize health services, health facilities operating under the safety net, county hospitals and clinics, and public health programs.
The tax increase is expected to remain in effect for five years.
It will not be applied to every product.
The new sales tax hike does not cover every purchase consumers make. Basic food items, prescription drugs, and certain medical equipment will continue to be exempt from sales tax.
In contrast, the amount consumers pay at the register for taxable daily purchases will increase.
Debates over the cost of living are back on the agenda.
The implementation of the tax increase coincided with a period in California when housing and gasoline costs were particularly high.
Some consumers in Los Angeles County say that rising costs in many areas—from food to transportation to housing—have strained their budgets in recent years.
Tonantzin Carmona, Director of Economic Policy at The Century Foundation, also pointed out that families are under pressure from many different cost items simultaneously. Carmona said that housing costs in California have been high for a long time, adding that fuel prices and broader economic developments are also part of the mix.
In some cities, the rate exceeds 11 percent.
Under the new regulation, the base rate across Los Angeles County rises to 10.25 percent, but the rate consumers face can vary due to additional taxes imposed by individual cities.
In areas such as Santa Monica, Pasadena, and West Hollywood, the total sales tax reaching 11 percent or more makes the impact of the new regulation more visible, especially for everyday spending.
The revenue from the tax increase to be implemented over five years is intended to be used to support health services and public health programs throughout the county.
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