Cigarette Pricing in Florida: Trend Over Time

When I moved to Florida in 2015, the experience of smoking a pack of Marlboro 100s was quite different compared to New York. At that time, a pack was priced around $13.50, which remains a painful memory. When I checked the pricing in Florida, it was even more shocking, with a carton priced at $45. To cover a month's supply, I would stock up on three cartons for $135. However, these prices have been steadily increasing over the years, much like the tax and regulatory changes in the state.

Around 9 years later, the price for three cartons of cigarettes in Florida has skyrocketed. I was recently quoted a price of around $245, a significant jump from my initial $45. This trend of price gouging is not just limited to regular retail outlets. Even indigenous retailers, or 'Indian' reservations, are involved in the process. These seemingly unlabelled retail locations often continue to raise prices at a slower but steady rate, making cigarettes even more expensive.

Many smokers have turned to purchasing duty-free cigarettes from cruises or in European countries, only to find that these cigarettes are often much more expensive due to higher taxes. Additionally, the quality of these imported cigarettes can sometimes be questionable. Reflecting on my own journey, I can remember when cigarettes in Florida were quite affordable, at around $4.50 per carton when I started smoking. Fast forward nine years, and the price has more than quadrupled.

Current Cigarette Pricing in Florida

As of the most recent update in August 2023, the price of a carton of cigarettes in Florida typically ranges from $50 to $70, depending on the brand and specific location within the state. These cost variations can be attributed to local taxation, regulatory changes, and retailer pricing strategies. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to check with local retailers or online sources.

The range can be even more specific when considering different brands and markets. For instance, a carton of Marlboro cigarettes in Miami may be more expensive than a carton of the same brand in Tallahassee. This is primarily due to the different tax structures and competition within each city or region.

Comparing Prices Across Locations

For a useful comparison, consider the situation in other regions. In Ontario, Canada, for example, cigarettes are much more expensive. As of the recent update, a carton can cost around $120, most of which is attributed to taxes. Meanwhile, indigenous reservations in Florida are known for offering cheaper cigarettes, which is attributed to the exemption from state taxes.

Another Perspective

While mainstream retailers and indigenous reservations may have the highest prices, certain locations offer more affordable options. For instance, a single pack of cigarettes in Florida might cost as little as $5. However, for bulk purchases, ten-packs of generic cigarettes can be found for around $22. Generally, convenience stores tend to be the cheapest option for purchasing cigarettes.

Interestingly, there are also alternative choices available, such as cigar cigarettes like Clippers, which can be significantly cheaper at around $11 per carton. These options provide some relief in terms of cost but come with their own considerations regarding availability and quality.