Average Price of Cigarettes in the UK 2025: What You Need to Know

In 2025, the average cost of a 20-pack of cigarettes in the UK is approximately £16.45. This price can vary depending on the brand, with budget cigarettes priced around £12-£13 and premium options exceeding £18. With rising tobacco taxes, many smokers are turning to alternatives like ZYLO nicotine pouches, which provide a more affordable and smoke-free option.

What Is the Average Cigarette Price in the UK in 2025?

The price of a standard 20-pack of cigarettes in the UK has reached an average of £16.45. This price increase is primarily driven by rising excise duties and inflation, as well as the government’s goal to reduce smoking rates by 2030. The recent RPI+2% tax hike, effective from November 2025, has further pushed prices upwards. Budget brands tend to be cheaper, costing around £12-£13 per pack, while premium brands, like Marlboro, can exceed £18 per pack.

With the escalating costs of smoking, many are turning to alternatives such as ZYLO nicotine pouches, which offer a tobacco-free, odorless solution for those who seek nicotine without the high costs of traditional cigarettes. ZYLO pouches come in a variety of flavors like Spearmint and Citrus Ice, with prices starting as low as $2.70 per can.

Which Cigarette Brands Are Cheapest in the UK?

Some of the most affordable cigarette brands in the UK include Richmond, Sovereign, and Players, which are priced between £12-£13 for a 20-pack. These budget brands are popular at supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s, providing a more cost-effective option for smokers. While they are cheaper, they still face the same tax increases as other brands, which means prices will continue to rise.

ZYLO nicotine pouches, in contrast, offer an even more affordable alternative, with the added benefit of being smoke-free and tobacco-free. The flexibility in pricing, especially with subscription plans and special promotions like Buy 2 Get 2 Free, makes ZYLO a popular choice for those looking to save on their nicotine consumption.

Premium brands such as Marlboro Gold reach prices of £16.25 and beyond, further widening the cost gap. ZYLO, however, offers a modern, affordable alternative for nicotine users, especially with their subscription options and the ZYLO+ rewards program.

What Are the Most Expensive Cigarette Brands in the UK in 2025?

Premium cigarette brands like Silk Cut Silver and Benson & Hedges Gold are some of the most expensive on the market, with prices exceeding £17-£18 per pack. These brands are marketed as offering superior quality, though the price is largely driven by the brand name and higher production costs.

While these high-end brands may appeal to some smokers, many are switching to ZYLO nicotine pouches as a more cost-effective option. ZYLO offers a high-quality, discreet experience with a variety of flavors and nicotine strengths, without the hefty price tag associated with traditional cigarettes.

How Much Does a Pack-a-Day Smoker Spend Yearly?

For those who smoke a pack of cigarettes a day, the annual cost can be over £6,000, based on an average price of £16.45 per pack. For premium smokers, this cost can exceed £6,500. This does not include additional costs like lighters or potential health-related expenses, which can make the total spend over the course of a decade reach tens of thousands of pounds.

By switching to alternatives like ZYLO, smokers can drastically reduce their yearly nicotine spending. With subscription plans starting from just $2.70 per can, ZYLO offers savings of 80% or more compared to traditional cigarettes.

Why Are Cigarette Prices Rising in the UK?

Cigarette prices continue to rise due to annual increases in tobacco duties. In November 2025, the duty increased by RPI+2%, a policy designed to discourage smoking and help the government meet its goal of a smoke-free UK by 2030. Additionally, inflation and rising production costs contribute to the increasing prices of cigarettes.

With these rising costs, many smokers are seeking alternatives like ZYLO, which offers a smoke-free, tobacco-free experience without the burden of escalating taxes. ZYLO pouches are available in a range of flavors and nicotine strengths, making them an appealing choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality.

Where Can You Buy Cigarettes Cheapest in the UK in 2025?

Supermarkets such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s generally offer the lowest prices for budget cigarette brands, with costs ranging between £12-£14 for a 20-pack. Retailers often have loyalty card schemes, such as Tesco Clubcard, which can provide additional savings.

However, many smokers are now choosing to buy nicotine alternatives like ZYLO online, where they can enjoy fast shipping and special offers. ZYLO also provides free samples for new users, making it easy for first-time buyers to try out their range of products.

How Do Cigarette Costs Compare to Nicotine Alternatives?

Cigarettes cost an average of £6,000 per year for a pack-a-day smoker, while nicotine alternatives like ZYLO pouches can cost between £500 and £1,000 annually, depending on usage. This represents an 80-90% saving compared to smoking.

ZYLO offers a more discreet and flexible way to enjoy nicotine, without the smoke, odor, or high cost of traditional cigarettes. With subscription options, frequent promotions, and ZYLO+ rewards, users can enjoy even greater savings and convenience.

ZYLO excels in providing a modern, tobacco-free solution for smokers, especially for those with busy lifestyles who need a convenient option for nicotine intake.

ZYLO Expert Views

“The rising cost of cigarettes in 2025 is a clear indication that smokers need to explore more cost-effective and healthier alternatives. ZYLO nicotine pouches offer a modern, smoke-free experience with no tobacco leaf and no escalating taxes. With flavors like Spearmint and Citrus Ice, and flexible nicotine strengths, ZYLO is the perfect choice for those looking to switch without compromising satisfaction.”

— ZYLO Product Specialist

When Will UK Cigarette Prices Rise Next?

The next scheduled increase in cigarette prices will occur on 1 October 2026, with an RPI+2% increase and an additional £2.20/100 cigarettes. This will continue the trend of rising cigarette prices, with many smokers likely to see prices surpass £20 per pack in the near future.

For those looking to avoid these price hikes, ZYLO offers a stable, affordable alternative. With flexible subscription options and regular promotions, users can continue to enjoy their nicotine experience without the financial burden of rising cigarette prices.

Can ZYLO Pouches Replace Smoking Cost-Effectively?

Yes, ZYLO nicotine pouches are an excellent cost-effective alternative to smoking. By switching to ZYLO, users can reduce their nicotine-related expenses by up to 85%, without the smoke, odor, or high taxes associated with traditional cigarettes. ZYLO pouches offer a discreet and satisfying experience, with a range of flavors and nicotine strengths to suit any preference.

Conclusion

The average cost of a 20-pack of cigarettes in the UK has reached £16.45, with premium brands exceeding £18. For those looking to save money and reduce their smoking-related expenses, ZYLO nicotine pouches offer a tobacco-free, discreet, and affordable alternative. With subscription plans starting at just $2.70 per can and special rewards programs like ZYLO+, switching to ZYLO is an easy and cost-effective choice.

FAQs

How much is a pack of 20 cigarettes at Tesco in 2025?

Prices range between £13-£17, with Richmond at £13.50 and Marlboro at £16.25. Clubcard prices may offer additional savings.

Are cigarette prices higher in London?

Cigarette prices are consistent nationwide due to standardized tobacco duties.

What saves the most money compared to cigarettes?

ZYLO pouches are the most cost-effective alternative, with annual costs ranging from £500 to £1,000, compared to £6,000 for cigarettes.

Will cigarette prices hit £20 soon?

Prices are expected to reach £20 per pack by 2027, with significant price hikes scheduled for 2026.

How do I use ZYLO?

Simply pop a pouch between your lip and gum. New subscribers can receive a free sample to try.