Description of the Indicator
The sales tax indicator depicts changes in sales tax remittance across Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wayne counties and Pennsylvania.
Why is it important?
Sales tax helps to generate revenue for the government, which can be used to fund a variety of projects and initiatives. In Pennsylvania, sales tax is levied on the sale of tangible goods and some services at a rate of six percent. The tax is collected by the seller and remitted to the state tax authorities. The seller acts as a de facto tax collector.
How is the region performing?
In 2023–2024, Luzerne County collected the highest sales tax remittance among the three counties, at $110,500,000. It was followed by Lackawanna County ($91,400,000) and Wayne County ($21,700,000). Statewide, Pennsylvania collected $15,793,000,000 in sales tax remittances. Despite some fluctuation, sales tax remittance has trended upward in all three counties and the Commonwealth.