For many Americans, it feels like prices for essential goods keep rising, and in some cities, residents are facing extra taxes on food.
As of Jan. 1, 2026, Fairfax County, located in Northern Virginia west of Washington, D.C., rang in the New Year by levying a new 4% tax on the purchase of all prepared food and beverages sold as a meal by restaurants.
This new meal tax is added on top of the state’s existing 6% sales tax. It comes as Donald Trump gives an update on $2,000 stimulus check funded by tariffs.
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Fairfax County residents, businesses, and officials have mixed opinions on the new meal tax and its long-term impact on the local economy and consumer habits.
Where will I have to pay the meal tax in Fairfax County?
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved the meal tax last year in an effort to address budget concerns. The 4% meal tax is expected to generate more than $60 million in revenue in the first six months of 2026…