Why is this important

Sales taxes are collected for certain goods and services and are generally collected from the consumer at the point of purchase.  A healthy economy can indicate growth in neighborhood serving businesses, whose presence can reduce dependence on cars, improve access to daily goods and services, promote small business development and increase opportunities for social interaction and reduce crime. Increasing tax revenue can support expanded government services. Additionally, business growth may also create more job opportunities. However, it is important to note whether the jobs produced hire local residents and provide benefits that promote health, such as health insurance.

How are we doing?

Between 2011 and 2015, the total sales and gross receipts taxes collected rose in both the city and the CMTL area.  Greater growth occurred between 2011 and 2013, with tax revenues increasing by 18% in the CMTL area and 12% citywide. Between 2013 and 2015, revenues increased by 9% in the CMTL area and 8% citywide. In 2017 there was a slight dip in sales tax revenue in the CMTL area by about 1.5%, while citywide sale tax revenue increased by 1.6%.

Dataset Source

San Francisco Treasurer and Tax Collector, 2011-2015.