There seem to be many opinions on whether vaping is better than smoking when compared side by side. It can be especially frustrating when looking at the price factor. While vaping certainly gives you many options for flavors and pens, the numbers don’t always seem to add up regarding the financials. This leads those controlled by cost to ask themselves: is vaping really cheaper than smoking?
Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking cigarettes in recent years, with many people choosing to switch to vaping as a way to save money. However, the question of whether vaping is cheaper than smoking is not a straightforward one to answer. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with both vaping and smoking to determine which is more affordable.
Initial Costs
When it comes to initial costs, vaping can appear to be cheaper than smoking. The cost of a starter vaping kit, which includes a vape pen or mod and a charger, can range from $20 to $50. In contrast, a pack of cigarettes can cost anywhere from $6 to $12, depending on the state and brand.
However, it’s important to note that a starter vaping kit is not a one-time purchase. The coils in the device will need to be replaced periodically, with the cost of replacement coils ranging from $5 to $15 for a pack of five. The lifespan of a vape tank is also limited and will need to be replaced eventually, with the cost of replacement tanks ranging from $15 to $30.
Ongoing Costs
When it comes to ongoing costs, the cost of e-liquid can be less expensive than the cost of cigarettes over time. A 30ml bottle of e-liquid can
cost anywhere from $10 to $25, depending on the brand and nicotine strength. In contrast, a pack of cigarettes can cost anywhere from $6 to $12. Based on these prices, a vaper can save anywhere from $300 to $1000 per year, compared to a smoker consuming a pack a day.
Another important factor to consider is the cost of nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive substance found in both cigarettes and e-liquids. While the cost of nicotine in cigarettes is included in the price of the pack, the cost of nicotine in e-liquids must be purchased separately. This can add to the overall cost of vaping.
Health Costs
Another important factor to consider when comparing the costs of vaping and smoking is the long-term health costs. While vaping is not without risks, it is widely considered to be less harmful than smoking. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, smoking causes over 480,000 deaths in the United States each year, while vaping is associated with a relatively small number of deaths.
The health costs of smoking include not only the cost of treating smoking-related illnesses but also the cost of lost productivity due to illness and premature death. These costs can be high and can add up over time, making smoking a much more expensive habit in the long run.
In contrast, the long-term health costs associated with vaping are currently unknown and are still being studied. However, the available evidence suggests that vaping is less harmful than smoking and that the health risks associated with vaping are much lower.
Taxes
Another thing to consider when comparing the costs of vaping and smoking is the taxes that are applied to each. Cigarettes are heavily taxed in most states, and the cost of a pack of cigarettes can vary significantly depending on the state and local taxes. In contrast, the taxes on vaping products are much lower and may not vary as much by location.
This can affect the overall cost of vaping and smoking, and it’s worth researching the local taxes before making a decision on which is more affordable.
Additional Factors to Consider
Another factor to consider when comparing the costs of vaping and smoking is the frequency of use. A frequent smoker may go through a pack or more of cigarettes per day, while a vaper may only use a few milliliters of e-liquid per week. This means that the ongoing costs of vaping can be significantly less than the ongoing costs of smoking for heavy smokers.
It’s also important to consider the cost of the device in the long term. While the initial cost of a vaping device may be more expensive than a pack of cigarettes, the device can be used for months or even years with proper maintenance. In contrast, a pack of cigarettes is used up in a matter of days.
Another thing to consider is the level of nicotine that you are consuming. Smokers will tend to smoke the same number of cigarettes regardless of the price, while vapers can adjust their nicotine consumption which could result in a saving in terms of the cost of the liquid.
In conclusion
The decision of whether to vape or smoke should be based on personal preference, individual circumstances, and a cost-benefit analysis that takes into account all of the factors discussed in this article. While vaping may appear to be more expensive initially, the ongoing costs of vaping can be significantly less than the ongoing costs of smoking. Additionally, the long-term health costs associated with smoking are significantly higher than vaping, so even if vaping is slightly more expensive, it may be a wise investment for your overall well-being.
