Cheapest States to Buy Cigarettes in the US

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‍Cheapest States to Buy Cigarettes in the US
Smoking is an expensive habit, and the cost of cigarettes can vary greatly depending on where you live in the United States. In this article, we will explore the cheapest states to buy cigarettes, providing a comprehensive guide for smokers looking to save some money on their tobacco purchases. We will delve into the average prices of cigarettes, the taxes imposed on them, and the most affordable brands in each state. So, if you’re a budget-conscious smoker, read on to discover where you can find the best deals on cigarettes.

The Average Price of Cigarettes in the US

The average price of cigarettes in the United States is higher than the global average. In 2020, the average cost of a pack of 20 cigarettes in the US was $6.71, compared to the international average price of $4.52. This means that Americans pay about 50% more than the global average for their cigarettes¹. The high prices in the US are primarily due to taxes and fees imposed by federal and state governments on tobacco products¹.

Cigarette Prices and Taxes by State

Cigarette prices can vary significantly from state to state due to differences in taxes and regulations. Let’s take a closer look at the states with the cheapest and most expensive cigarettes in the US.

Cheapest Cigarettes by State

The following states have the cheapest cigarettes in the country:

1. Missouri – $5.21
2. Georgia – $5.35
3. North Carolina – $5.36
4. North Dakota – $5.43
5. Tennessee – $5.54
6. South Carolina – $5.57
7. Mississippi – $5.64
8. Wyoming – $5.68
9. Idaho – $5.72
10. Virginia – $5.73¹

Most Expensive Cigarettes by State

On the other hand, the following states have the most expensive cigarettes in the US:

1. New York – $10.53
2. Connecticut – $10.04
3. Rhode Island – $9.87
4. Massachusetts – $9.75
5. Alaska – $9.55
6. Hawaii – $9.44
7. Minnesota – $9.13
8. Illinois – $8.97
9. Vermont – $8.82
10. Washington – $8.57¹

It’s important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on the specific location within each state. Taxes and local regulations can also impact the final price of cigarettes.

Cigarette Prices by Brand

Cigarette prices can also vary depending on the brand. Some of the most popular cigarette brands in the US include Marlboro, Newport, and American Spirit. While the prices of these brands can fluctuate, let’s take a look at the average prices for each:

• Marlboro: Around $9 per pack
• American Spirit: Around $7 per pack
• Newport: Around $6 per pack¹

It’s important to remember that prices can vary by state and even within different stores. Taxes also play a significant role in the differences between cigarette prices by brand and location. Some states have higher sales taxes, while certain local governments impose additional taxes on tobacco products, further affecting their cost¹.

Carton of Cigarettes Price by State

For smokers looking to save even more money, purchasing a carton of cigarettes can be a cost-effective option. A carton typically contains 10 packs of cigarettes and can bring savings of up to 30% compared to buying individual packs¹. The price of a carton of cigarettes varies from state to state, depending on taxes and other factors. Here are some examples of carton prices in different states:

• Delaware and Florida: $55
• Maine and Maryland: $66
• New Jersey: $76 (on average)
• New Hampshire: $58¹

It’s worth noting that the price of a carton of cigarettes can also depend on the type and brand. For example, a carton of Marlboro cigarettes can range from $55 to $65, while a carton of American Spirit can cost up to $80¹.

Cigarette Tax by State

Cigarette taxes play a significant role in the overall cost of cigarettes. The amount of tax levied on cigarettes varies from state to state and can even differ within localities. Here are some examples of states with high and low cigarette taxes:

States with High Cigarette Taxes

• District of Columbia: $4.50 per pack
• New York: $4.35 per pack
• Connecticut: $4.35 per pack
• Massachusetts: $3.51 per pack
• Rhode Island: $4.25 per pack¹

States with Low Cigarette Taxes

• Missouri: $0.17 per pack
• Georgia: $0.37 per pack
• North Carolina: $0.45 per pack
• North Dakota: $0.44 per pack
• Tennessee: $0.62 per pack¹

It’s worth mentioning that states with higher cigarette taxes tend to have lower smoking rates, suggesting that high taxes may be an effective tool for reducing smoking rates, particularly among young people¹.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying cigarettes in the United States, the prices can vary significantly from state to state. By understanding the cheapest states to buy cigarettes, smokers can make informed decisions to save money on their tobacco purchases. However, it’s important to keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, and additional taxes and regulations can impact the final cost. Whether you’re looking to save money or quit smoking altogether, it’s crucial to consider the financial and health implications of this habit.

Remember, smoking is harmful to your health, and quitting is always the best option. If you or someone you know is struggling with tobacco addiction, seek help from healthcare professionals and support groups dedicated to smoking cessation.

Footnotes

1. Reference Article 1. ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵ ↩⁶ ↩⁷ ↩⁸ ↩⁹ ↩¹⁰ ↩¹¹ ↩¹²