Measure R's half-cent sales tax to raise L.A. County's rate to 9.75%

With the activation of Measure R, the basic sales tax rate in Los Angeles County jumps to 9.75%, one of the highest in the state and region. The new half-cent tax, for example, will add $5 to the price of a $1,000 purchase and $100 to the cost of a $20,000 item.

Sales tax rates in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties are lower, which may provide some incentive for people to shop there instead of Los Angeles County.

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-measure-r1-2009jul01,0,1974133.story