Smoking in New York Comes with a Big Price Tag
If you smoke in New York, then you know that your wallet definitely feels it. A new analysis from iSelect shows that people here are paying some of the highest prices in the entire country just to keep up with the habit. On average, a smoker in the Empire State spends about $3,983 every single year on cigarettes.
The Most Expensive State to Light Up
Cigarette prices in New York are no joke. With the average pack costing $14.55, it’s the most expensive place in America to smoke. Even though the number of smokers has gone down slightly this past year, New Yorkers are still spending more than $563 million a year on cigarettes. That is a lot of money going up in smoke.
What the Numbers Look Like
According to the data, more than two million New Yorkers currently smoke. With each person spending close to four grand a year, the costs really adds up fast. The report also shows a small drop in smoking rates at about 0.88 percent. It’s not a big change, but it’s a step in the right direction.
The Health Side of the Story
Beyond the cost, experts are still reminding people about the health risks that come with smoking. One dentist who contributed to the report pointed out just how much smoking can affect your mouth and teeth, from gum disease to long-term oral health problems. It’s a good reminder that the financial cost is only part of the picture.