New State Taxes for 2026 Target Netflix, Zyn, Airbnb Stays

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As we welcome the new year, we also welcome new changes in state tax codes across the country. Effective January 1, 2026, several states have implemented new tax legislation that may come as a surprise to many taxpayers.

Here are some of the most significant and unexpected items that will impact your wallet in different states this year, along with a few places where you may find some financial relief.

Airbnb stays

Rhode Island has introduced a new 5% tax on short-term rentals for booking an entire house, in addition to raising the hotel tax from 1% to 2% starting in 2026.

Gasoline

Several states have adjusted their gas taxes for the new year. New Jersey raised its gas tax by approximately 4 cents per gallon, bringing the total to over 49 cents per gallon. Michigan replaced its 6% gas tax with a per-gallon tax, resulting in an increase of about 20 cents per gallon at current prices.

Gold

Washington eliminated its sales tax exemption for gold bars, bullion, and other precious metals, leading to an increase in the overall tax rate for these items. Shoppers in Washington typically pay close to 10% in taxes on these purchases.

Netflix

Maine has implemented a 5.5% tax on digital streaming services, affecting platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, and others. This tax may signal a trend in other states considering similar taxes on digital services.

Nicotine

Nebraska, Oregon, and Washington have introduced new taxes on certain smokeless tobacco products, resulting in higher prices for consumers. These taxes may not be separately listed on receipts but will impact the cost of these products.

(Some) vending machine treats

Ohio now applies a 5.75% state sales tax to refrigerated vending machine items, similar to the tax rate for restaurant meals. On a positive note, Arkansas and Illinois have eliminated state taxes on groceries, while Alabama has introduced a sales tax exemption for menstrual and maternity products.