Guides
How Much is a Pack of Cigarettes in Canada in 2025?
Oct
Over the last ten years, cigarette prices in Canada have been rising steadily, and many smokers are noticing how much they end up spending on this everyday habit. Between federal and provincial taxes, brand premiums, and retail markups, the cost of a single pack can vary widely depending on where you live and what you buy. Understanding these costs is useful if you want to budget, compare prices, or find the best deals.
In this article, we’ll break down the current price range for cigarette packs across Canada, explain the factors behind these costs, and provide a snapshot of what you can expect to pay in each province. Whether you smoke regularly or are simply curious about the numbers, this guide will help you make informed choices and maximise the value of your investment.
Why Cigarette Prices Vary in Canada
Cigarette prices differ across Canada due to several key factors:
- Tobacco Taxes: Federal and provincial excise taxes, along with sales taxes (HST/PST), comprise a significant portion of the final price, typically accounting for 60–70% of the cost per pack.
- Brand Selection: Premium brands, such as Belmont or Du Maurier, cost more than value brands, like Rothmans or Next, with price differences of $2–$3 per pack or more.
- Pack Size: Standard packs contain 20 cigarettes, but larger packs, such as 25-stick packs, naturally cost more.
- Retail Markup: Convenience stores, gas stations, and corner shops often add higher markups, while licensed online retailers usually offer lower prices.
- Distribution Costs: Remote or northern regions face higher shipping and logistics costs, which increase retail prices.
- Government Policy & Inflation: Regular tax hikes and rising production or transportation costs lead to higher prices over time.
These factors explain why the same pack of cigarettes can cost very different amounts depending on where it is purchased.
How Much is a Pack of Cigarettes in Canada?
The cost of a pack of cigarettes in Canada varies depending on several factors, including the province, brand, pack size, and the location of purchase. On average, a 20-stick pack costs between CAD $15 and CAD $19, while a 25-stick pack typically ranges from CAD $22 to CAD $24. Premium brands, such as Belmont or Du Maurier, are typically at the higher end of this range, while value brands, like Rothmans or Next, are positioned at the lower end.
Provincial variation plays a big role. Quebec often has the lowest prices, with packs ranging from CAD $15 to $16, whereas northern territories such as Nunavut or Yukon can see prices above CAD $20 for 20-stick packs due to higher shipping and logistics costs. Ontario, British Columbia, and the Atlantic provinces fall in the mid-range, typically costing CAD $17–$19 per pack.
A significant factor is taxes. Retail prices can include federal and provincial excise taxes, as well as HST or PST, which represent up to 60 to 70 per cent of the actual cost of production of a pack to the consumer. The place of retail also matters: gas stations and convenience shops usually have higher markups, whereas licensed online retailers may offer slightly more favourable deals.
The prices are still rising due to other factors, such as inflation and government policies that raise tobacco taxes. All these factors play together, and the cost of a pack of cigarettes can change dramatically; thus, we need to be updated in case we are on a budget or making a choice.
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Best Place to Buy Cigarettes Online in Canada
After reviewing cigarette prices across Canada, it’s worth noting where to find the best online deals. For consistent pricing, fast shipping, and a large selection of major brands, DiscountSmokes stands out.
Here’s what they offer:
- A wide selection of cigarette brands and rolling tobacco is available on their site, which states that they carry everything from full-flavour to light and menthol options.Â
- Competitive carton prices and volume discounts are available, with offersÂ
- Secure and easy payment method, as the store emphasises secure checkout and multiple payment options.Â
- Canada-wide delivery, including remote provinces, is mentioned, with shipping across Canada highlighted.
- Responsive customer service & regular promotions.Â
Buying from DiscountSmokes means you can expect transparent pricing, good discounts, and delivery to nearly all Canadian regions.
Tips to Save Money on Cigarettes in Canada
Smoking in Canada is expensive, but you can reduce your costs without breaking the law. Here are some practical tips:
- Buy online from Trusted Retailers: Competitive pricing, volume discounts, and in-store promotions, such as those offered by DiscountSmokes, can help you save money compared to making purchases in-store.
- Consider Value or Store Brands: Premium brands tend to be more expensive. Using value or generic brands would reduce your daily cost but still provide you with the type of experience you desire with cigarettes.
- Purchase in Bulk or by the Carton: Buying cartons instead of single packs often reduces the per-pack cost. There are also online stores that give bigger discounts to multiple carton orders.
- Take Advantage of Promotions and Discounts: Many online retailers run seasonal sales or offer coupon codes for first-time buyers and regular customers. Being on the lookout for these can save a good deal in the long run.
- Compare Prices Across Provinces: Prices vary between provinces due to taxes and distribution costs. If you live closer to a provincial border, it may sometimes be more beneficial to make purchases in an online shop from the neighbouring province.
- Consider Smoking Less: Reducing your daily intake not only helps keep you healthy, but it also saves you a significant amount of money over time.
All these tips can guide the smokers in Canada to cope with the cost of cigarettes and still afford their favourite brands and products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are cigarette prices higher in some provinces?
Taxes, retail markups, and shipping costs drive price differences. Federal and provincial excise taxes, as well as sales taxes, make up 60–70% of the retail price. Remote regions also often face higher shipping and logistics costs.
2. Can I buy cigarettes online legally in Canada?
Yes, it is legal to buy cigarettes online from licensed Canadian retailers, provided you meet the legal smoking age in your province. Always use a trusted retailer, such as DiscountSmokes, to ensure compliance with laws.
3. What is the cheapest cigarette brand in Canada?
Value or budget brands such as Playfare, Canadian, or JTI’s value lines tend to be the most affordable options in Canada. Prices vary by province, but these brands usually cost a few dollars less per pack than premium names like Du Maurier or Belmont.
4. What are the best ways to save money on cigarettes?
Buying online from trusted stores, choosing value brands, purchasing in bulk, using promotions and discounts, and reducing daily consumption are all effective ways to save.
5. Are there any risks when buying cigarettes online?
Buying from unverified or illegal online sellers can be risky. Orders may be seized, and there is no guarantee of product quality. Always buy from licensed, reputable retailers to avoid problems.
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