How Much Do Cigarettes Cost Now? State & National Averages
Get clarity on today's cigarette prices across the US, revealing national benchmarks and the range of costs you might encounter.
The cost of cigarettes across the United States involves various financial components that contribute to the final retail price. These include national averages, the influence of different taxes, and how these factors collectively lead to significant price variations from one part of the country to another. Federal, state, and local fiscal policies, alongside market dynamics, shape the economic landscape for tobacco products.
Current National Average Cost
As of mid-2025, the average cost of a pack of cigarettes in the United States is approximately $10.25. This figure represents a weighted average that accounts for diverse prices across all states and various brands. The median price for a pack of cigarettes nationwide is around $7.93.
A carton of cigarettes, typically containing ten packs, would therefore cost an estimated $102.50 based on the national average pack price. For an individual who smokes approximately 15 cigarettes daily, the national average expenditure amounts to about $6 per day, which totals around $2,190 annually.
Key Factors Influencing Cigarette Prices
Several factors contribute to the ultimate retail price of cigarettes, with taxation being the most significant determinant. The federal government imposes an excise tax of $1.01 per pack of 20 cigarettes, a rate that has remained unchanged since 2009.
Beyond the federal tax, states also implement their own excise taxes, averaging around $1.91 per pack. These state-level taxes vary widely, ranging from a minimal $0.17 per pack to a substantial $5.35 per pack. Many states also apply a general sales tax to cigarette purchases, which can sometimes include the excise tax in its base, further increasing the final price.
Local governments, including cities and counties, can impose additional excise taxes. For instance, certain metropolitan areas have local taxes that significantly elevate prices, with some combined state and local tax rates reaching over $7 per pack. Other elements influencing prices include the brand of cigarettes, with premium brands generally costing more than generic or budget options. Retail markups and minimum pricing laws enacted by some states.
Price Variations by State
Cigarette prices exhibit considerable variation across states, primarily driven by differing state and local tax policies. Northeastern states and those in the Pacific region, including non-contiguous states, typically have the highest prices. A pack of cigarettes can average around $14.55 in some of the most expensive states, directly linked to elevated state excise tax rates, which can exceed $5 per pack in these areas.
Conversely, states in the Southern and Great Plains regions generally feature lower cigarette prices. A pack might cost under $8.00 on average. This affordability is largely due to significantly lower state excise taxes, with some states imposing a tax as low as $0.17 per pack. The geographical distribution of prices reflects legislative decisions on tobacco taxation, often influenced by public health goals and revenue generation.