Vaping vs smoking: which one is really cheaper in the long run?

March 26, 2025

When it comes to the cost comparison between vaping and smoking, many smokers are considering making the switch, hoping to save money. While vaping is often seen as a healthier alternative, it’s also important to understand the financial implications of both habits. In this post, we’ll break down the costs of smoking and vaping over time and help you determine which one is truly cheaper in the long run.

The cost of smoking

Cigarettes are a widely known and popular choice for nicotine users, but they come with a hefty price tag. The cost of smoking varies depending on where you live, but in many places, a pack of cigarettes can cost anywhere from $5 to $15 or more. The average smoker goes through a pack a day, which adds up quickly.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the costs for a smoker:

Average cost per pack: £12 (can vary by location)
Average packs per week: 7 (one pack per day)
Annual cost: £12 x 7 x 52 = £4,368 per year

Smoking also comes with additional costs beyond purchasing cigarettes, such as:

Health-related expenses: smokers are at higher risk for numerous health issues, including lung disease, heart disease, and cancers. These medical bills can add up over time.
Burnt clothing and home damage: the smell of smoke lingers and can cause damage to clothing, furniture, and even the walls of your home.

The cost of vaping

Vaping is considered a more affordable alternative for some, but it’s important to look at the upfront and ongoing costs associated with it. The initial investment for a vape device can range from £30 to £100, depending on the brand and model. Once you have your device, the main ongoing cost will be e-liquids and coils.

Here’s a breakdown of vaping costs:

Initial device cost: £30–£100 (depending on the type of device)
E-liquid cost: A 30ml bottle of e-liquid typically costs around £10–£20, and depending on your usage, a bottle may last 1–2 weeks.
Coil replacements: Coils need to be replaced every 1–2 weeks, and they cost around £3–£5 each.

Let’s break this down over the course of a year:

Device cost (one-time purchase): £50 (mid-range vape device)
E-liquid cost: £15 x 26 bottles (assuming 1 bottle every 2 weeks) = £390 per year
Coil replacements: £4 x 26 coils = £104 per year

Total vaping cost for the first year: £50 (device) + £390 (e-liquids) + £104 (coils) = £544

In subsequent years, the cost drops significantly since the initial device purchase is a one-time expense. You’ll mainly be spending on e-liquids and coils.

Vaping vs smoking: a yearly cost comparison

Let’s compare the total yearly costs for both smoking and vaping:

Smoking (annual cost): £4,368
Vaping (annual cost after first year): £544

As you can see, vaping is significantly cheaper than smoking in the long run, with smokers spending much more on cigarettes each year. Additionally, the ongoing costs of vaping are primarily limited to e-liquids and coils, while smoking involves regular, expensive purchases of cigarettes.

Additional benefits of vaping

Apart from the financial savings, there are other reasons why switching to vaping might be an attractive option:

No secondhand smoke: vaping doesn’t produce harmful secondhand smoke, which is a health concern with traditional cigarettes.
Customizable nicotine levels: vapers have control over how much nicotine they consume, potentially helping with reducing nicotine intake over time.
Variety of flavors: vaping offers a wide range of flavours, enhancing the overall experience.

Final thoughts

While both smoking and vaping have their costs, vaping is clearly the more cost-effective option in the long run. With a lower yearly expenditure on e-liquids and coils, and no ongoing cigarette purchases, vaping is cheaper—especially if you’re looking to reduce your spending. Additionally, the health benefits of switching from smoking to vaping are a big incentive, making it a win-win financially and personally.

If you’re considering making the switch or need expert advice on the best vaping products, head over to our shop at 147 Great Ancoats Street, Manchester M4 6DH, or contact us at hello@vapelounge.uk or call us on 0161 637 6066.