The True Price of a Pack
Most smokers only look at the daily cost. "It's just $10," you might say. But small daily habits compound into massive financial losses over time. A single pack a day costs roughly $3,650 per year.
Over 20 years, that is $73,000 in straight cash. However, the real loss is much higher due to the "Opportunity Cost" of not investing that money.
Opportunity Cost
If you invested that same money in a standard retirement fund (S&P 500), you would have over$150,000. That is wealth you are voluntarily giving up.
= $158,000+ over 20 years
Health is Wealth
This calculator focuses purely on the price of cigarettes, but the indirect costs are often higher. We haven't even included:
- Insurance: Premiums are often 50% higher for smokers.
- Dental: Increased costs for cleaning and whitening.
- Resale Value: Lower value for cars and homes with smoke damage.
Common Questions
Vaping?
Yes. Just enter your daily pod/cartridge cost in the "Cost per Pack" field. Vaping usage can often outpace cigarette costs.
Investment Rate?
We use a conservative 7% annual return, which is the historical average of the stock market adjusted for inflation.
Tools & Data Verified by the EverydayCalculators Medical Research Team.
Last updated: December 2026.