How Much Do Cigarettes Cost in Ohio?
Uncover the full picture of cigarette prices in Ohio. Explore the various elements shaping the final cost you pay.
The cost of cigarettes in Ohio is influenced by several factors, including the base product cost, federal and state taxes, and market dynamics.
Current Average Cost in Ohio
The average cost of a pack of 20 cigarettes in Ohio is approximately $9.59 as of July 2025. This price positions Ohio within the middle range nationally. While this figure represents a general average, actual prices can fluctuate based on the specific brand purchased and the retailer.
A carton of cigarettes typically contains ten packs, making the average cost around $95.90. Current market practices often mean the carton price is simply ten times the per-pack price.
State and Federal Taxes on Cigarettes
A significant portion of the retail price of cigarettes in Ohio stems from various taxes levied by both federal and state governments. The federal excise tax on cigarettes is a uniform charge across the United States, set at $1.01 per pack.
At the state level, Ohio imposes its own excise tax on cigarettes, which is $1.60 per pack. Beyond these excise taxes, the general state sales tax also applies to cigarette purchases in Ohio. This sales tax adds approximately $0.59 to the cost of each pack.
Certain local jurisdictions within Ohio also implement additional taxes on cigarettes. For instance, in Cuyahoga County, consumers face an extra local excise tax. As of February 1, 2025, this additional county tax totals $0.745 per pack, comprising charges for arts and sports facilities. Consequently, a pack of cigarettes sold in Cuyahoga County would include the $1.01 federal tax, the $1.60 Ohio state excise tax, the $0.745 Cuyahoga County tax, and the state sales tax, resulting in a higher overall price for consumers in that area.
Other Factors Affecting Price
Beyond the fixed tax structures, several other elements contribute to the varying prices of cigarettes across Ohio. The brand of cigarette plays a substantial role, with premium brands typically carrying a higher price point than generic or deep-discount alternatives. Retailers often adjust their pricing strategies based on the perceived market value and consumer demand for specific brands.
The type of retail establishment also influences the final price. Convenience stores, gas stations, supermarkets, and dedicated discount tobacco shops may offer different pricing due to varying operational costs, sales volumes, and competitive strategies. Some studies have indicated regional price variations within Ohio, particularly between urban and rural areas, where socioeconomic factors can influence the pricing of certain brands.
Disparities in cigarette tax rates between Ohio and neighboring states can lead to cross-border purchasing by consumers seeking lower prices. This behavior can impact sales volumes for retailers in border counties and may influence local pricing decisions to remain competitive. Ohio also has minimum price laws for cigarettes, which aim to prevent retailers from selling products below a certain cost, thereby reducing deep discounting practices in the market.