Edmonds and Lynnwood Now Have Washington’s Highest Sales Tax Rate

Edmonds and Lynnwood Now Have Washington’s Highest Sales Tax Rate

LYNNWOOD, Wash. — Shoppers and businesses in Edmonds and Lynnwood will soon be paying the highest combined sales tax rate in Washington State, as both cities move to a new rate of 10.7%.

Edmonds’ increase took effect this week, while Lynnwood’s new rate is scheduled to begin April 1.

The increase is tied to a state law that allows qualifying cities to adopt a 0.1% public safety sales tax without a public vote. To use this authority, cities must meet specific eligibility requirements connected to a state grant program. The additional revenue is intended to support public safety-related needs, such as police, fire, emergency response, and related community services.

For residents and visitors, the change means higher costs at the point of sale, particularly for taxable retail purchases and services. For local businesses, especially those near city borders, the higher rate may influence consumer behavior as shoppers compare prices across jurisdictions.

As Washington cities continue to look for ways to fund essential services amid budget pressures, Edmonds and Lynnwood now stand at the top of the state’s sales tax scale—an important development for taxpayers, employers, and consumers alike.