How Will You Spend the Money You Save by Quitting?

Did you know that tobacco companies spend over $34
million dollars a day to market their products to you? If
they spend this much on ads, they’re probably pocketing
quite a bit more. So how much of their profits come out
of your pocket? And what would you spend that money
on if you didn’t smoke?

Because of taxes, the cost of cigarettes can vary based
on what part of the country you live in. But most packs
in the U.S. cost between $5 and $10. If you assume an
average price of $7 per pack, here’s what you’re trading
each time you buy tobacco.

For the cost of 1 pack ($7), you could buy:
A foot-long submarine sandwich, a name brand
T-shirt, or a best-selling paperback novel.

For the cost of 10 packs ($70), you could buy:
A fancy new coffeemaker, the latest video game, or
dinner for 2 at your local steakhouse.

For the cost of 50 packs ($350), you could buy:
New hiking gear, a new cell phone, or a weekend
getaway for 2.


For the cost of 100 packs ($700), you could buy:
A big new plasma television, a new bicycle, or a
year’s membership for 2 at a gym.

What else do you really want or need? Have you had
your eye on a new laptop computer? Or maybe you need
a new car? How many packs of cigarettes not smoked
will that cost you? When you think in this new way, it
can make your habit seem really expensive.
Along with the dollar cost of tobacco come many health
costs. The risks of tobacco include damage to your skin,
teeth, bones, lungs, and heart. Tobacco use can also
take years off of your life.

If you want to quit smoking, keep in mind that there are
many people who want to help. Start by talking to your
doctor. Your employer, your health insurance company,
or a trained tobacco cessation coach may also be able
to help. These resources can support you in breaking the
habit. How you’ll spend the money you save by quitting
is up to you.