Cigarette Prices in Ontario, Canada: ~$15–17 CAD/Pack (2021)

As of September 2021, a pack of 20 cigarettes in Ontario cost approximately CAD $15–17.

Price Drivers

• Federal excise tax: $0.526/cigarette = $10.52/pack (2024 rate)
• Ontario tobacco tax: $0.478/cigarette = $9.56/pack (2024)
• HST (13%): Applied to pre-tax total
• Manufacturer price: ~$3–5/pack
• Retail markup: ~$1–2

2024 estimated total: CAD $18–22/pack for premium brands (Du Maurier, Player's, Export A). Budget brands ~$15–17.

Policy Context

• Canada: Highest cigarette prices globally (tax strategy)
• Plain packaging: Mandatory since 2019 (standard drab brown, graphic warnings 75%)
• Display ban: No visible retail display
• Minimum price laws: Some provinces
• Vaping tax: Federal + provincial (since 2022)

Where to Check Current Prices

• Ontario Ministry of Finance — tax bulletins
• Health Canada — tobacco reporting
• Retailers: Gas stations, convenience stores (prices posted)
• Non-smoker advocacy: Non-Smokers' Rights Association, Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada

Prices change frequently with tax budgets (typically April). Always verify current rates.