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Last Updated: 09.04.2026
Are you a smoker in Ontario looking to find out the cost of your favourite pack of cigarettes? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of Ontario’s top 5 cigarette brands and their current prices.
So whether you’re curious about the price hike or simply trying to budget your smoking habit, this post has got you covered. So sit back, light up (if that’s your thing), and read on to find out how much a pack of cigarettes will set you back in Ontario.
2026 Price Update: As of April 1, 2026, the cost of cigarettes in Ontario has increased due to the annual federal excise duty adjustment (indexed to the Consumer Price Index).
- Average Pack (20–25 cigarettes): $12.50 – $17.00
- Average Carton (200 cigarettes): $135.00 – $160.00
- Cheapest Options: $10.50 – $11.50 (Discount/Value brands)
Ontario Cigarette Price Comparison (2026 Estimates)
The following table provides a snapshot of current market rates in Ontario, reflecting the April 1, 2026, federal excise tax adjustments.
| Brand Category | Popular Examples | Price Per Pack (20–25s) | Price Per Carton (200s) |
| Budget / Value | Next, Macdonald, Philip Morris | $11.00 – $13.50 | $105 – $125 |
| Mid-Range | Player’s, Pall Mall, Viceroy | $13.50 – $15.50 | $125 – $145 |
| Premium | Belmont, Du Maurier, Benson & Hedges | $16.00 – $19.00+ | $150 – $170+ |
| Indigenous/Native | Putters, Sago, DK’s | $5.00 – $8.00* | $45 – $65* |
*Note: Prices for Indigenous brands typically apply to on-reserve purchases and may vary based on local tax status.
How Much is a Pack of Cigarettes in Ontario?
Tobacco prices in Ontario saw a significant shift on April 1, 2026, following the Canada Revenue Agency’s annual inflation adjustment to excise duties. While Ontario remains one of the more affordable provinces compared to the East Coast, smokers should now budget for higher daily costs.
The average price for a single carton of 200 cigarettes in Ontario now ranges from $135 to $160. This is a notable increase from previous years, driven by a federal excise tax rate of $0.97299 per 5 cigarettes (approximately $38.92 in federal duty per carton).
While the table above provides a general range, prices can vary by a few dollars depending on whether you are purchasing at a high-volume big-box retailer or a local convenience store. These costs are largely driven by the specific tax structures detailed below.
What Makes Up the Cost of a Pack? (2026 Tax Breakdown)
When you pay $16.00 for a premium pack of 25 cigarettes in Ontario, more than 65% of that price goes directly to the government. Here is the approximate breakdown based on 2026 rates:
- Ontario Provincial Tobacco Tax: $4.62 (Calculated at 18.475 cents per cigarette).
- Federal Excise Duty: $4.86 (Effective April 1, 2026, the rate is $0.97299 per 5 cigarettes).
- Harmonized Sales Tax (HST): $1.84 (13% applied to the subtotal).
- Production & Retail Margin: $4.68 (This covers manufacturing, shipping, and the convenience store’s profit).
Pro-Tip for the Reader: Because taxes are “fixed” per cigarette, the government takes the same amount on a cheap pack as they do on a Belmont. This is why “Budget” brands are able to stay under $13—they simply reduce the “Production & Retail Margin” to the bare minimum.
Is Ontario Cheaper Than Quebec? (Inter-Provincial Comparison)
Many Ontario smokers, particularly those in the Ottawa region, often wonder if it’s worth crossing the border for better prices. Historically, Quebec has the lowest average cigarette prices in Canada, with a pack of 20 typically costing around $11.68–$12.50—roughly 15–20% less than in Ontario.
However, when compared to the rest of the country, Ontario remains one of the most affordable provinces for smokers.
2026 Average Price Comparison (Per Pack):
- Quebec: $11.68 (Cheapest in Canada)
- Ontario: $13.50 – $15.50 (Highly Affordable)
- Alberta: $14.50 – $16.00
- British Columbia: $15.51+
- Newfoundland & Labrador: $15.92 – $19.00 (Most Expensive)
Why is there such a big difference? The price gap is almost entirely driven by Provincial Tobacco Tax. Quebec maintains a significantly lower provincial tax rate to combat the high volume of “contraband” or untaxed sales in the province. While Ontario increased its rates in April 2026, it chose a moderate path compared to the Atlantic provinces, which use high taxation as a primary tool for their “Tobacco-Free 2035” strategies.
The Role of Indigenous (Native) Brands: Grand River Enterprises & More
For many smokers in Ontario, the most significant price savings are found in Indigenous or “Native” brands, such as those manufactured by Grand River Enterprises (GRE) on the Six Nations of the Grand River territory.
Brands like Putters, Sago, and DK’s are significantly cheaper than mainstream brands, often selling for as little as $50 – $65 per carton.
Why are They So Much Cheaper?
Under Section 87 of the Indian Act, the personal property of a First Nations individual or band situated on a reserve is exempt from taxation. This means that tobacco manufactured and sold on-reserve does not include the standard provincial and federal excise taxes that drive up the price of mainstream brands like Belmont or Player’s.
The Legal “Grey Area” for Consumers
While the manufacturing and sale of these products on-reserve are legal, the Ontario Tobacco Tax Act has strict rules regarding their possession elsewhere:
- Tax Stamps: Legal cigarettes in Ontario must carry the yellow “ON DUTY PAID CANADA” tobacco stamp. Most Indigenous brands sold on-reserve do not have this stamp.
- Off-Reserve Possession: It is technically a violation of the Tobacco Tax Act for a non-Indigenous person to possess “unmarked” (unstamped) cigarettes off-reserve.
- Enforcement: While enforcement typically focuses on large-scale distribution (contraband), individuals caught with unmarked cigarettes can face civil penalties or fines starting at $200 for even a small number of cigarettes.
Summary: While Indigenous brands offer the lowest prices in Ontario, consumers should be aware that these products are intended for use on-reserve. Purchasing them for use off-reserve exists in a legal grey area that could result in fines if the products are not properly stamped for the Ontario duty-paid market.
Top 4 Cigarette Brands in Ontario
Many different cigarette brands are available on the market today, but not all of them are equally popular in Ontario. Here are the four most popular cigarette brands in the province.
1. Imperial Tobacco Canada
Imperial Tobacco Canada (a subsidiary of British American Tobacco) is the undisputed market leader in the Canadian tobacco industry, commanding approximately 50% of the total market share.
For smokers in Ontario, Imperial’s brands are the most recognizable and widely available products in almost every convenience store and gas station.
The company’s dominance is built on its “Power Brand” strategy, which categorizes its products into Premium, Mid-Range, and Value segments to capture every type of consumer.
- Du Maurier (Premium): Long considered the “gold standard” of Canadian cigarettes, Du Maurier remains the top-selling premium brand in Ontario. It is known for its distinctive red-and-white packaging and high-quality tobacco blend. In 2026, Du Maurier continues to command the highest price point, appealing to smokers who prioritize brand prestige and a smooth, consistent experience.
- Player’s (Mid-Range/Standard): Rivaling Du Maurier in popularity, Player’s is a staple of the Ontario market. While traditionally a “standard” priced brand, it has maintained a loyal following for decades. Its “Player’s Original” and “Player’s Smooth” varieties are among the most frequently requested packs at retail counters.
- Pall Mall & Viceroy (The Value Leaders): As federal and provincial taxes have driven pack prices toward the $16–$18 range, Imperial Tobacco has aggressively pivoted its focus to Pall Mall and Viceroy. These have become their leading “value” brands in 2026. Pall Mall, in particular, has gained massive market share by offering “XL” (king size) packs at a lower price point, helping budget-conscious smokers offset the rising cost of living.
Key Information for 2026:
- Market Position: #1 Tobacco Company in Canada.
- Popular Brands: Du Maurier, Player’s, Pall Mall, Viceroy, John Player Special (JPS).
- Website: https://www.imperialtobaccocanada.com/
- Headquarters Address: 3711 Saint-Antoine Street West, Montreal, QC H4C 3P6
- Phone Number: 1-514-932-6161
2. Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (RBH)
Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (a subsidiary of Philip Morris International) is Ontario’s second-largest tobacco manufacturer, holding roughly 34–35% of the Canadian market share.
While the company was built on high-end, prestigious brands, its 2026 strategy has shifted heavily toward the “Value” segment to remain competitive as provincial and federal taxes continue to rise.
RBH is unique in the Ontario market for its polarized portfolio—it owns both the most aspirational premium brand (Belmont) and the most dominant budget brand (Next).
- Next (The Value Leader): In 2026, Next is arguably the most important brand in the RBH portfolio. It has become a top-selling brand in Ontario convenience stores by catering specifically to budget-conscious smokers. By maintaining a lower price point than “standard” brands while offering a modern, clean image, Next has successfully captured a massive portion of the shift away from higher-priced cigarettes.
- Belmont (The Premium King): Despite the high cost of a pack (often exceeding $18.00 in 2026), Belmont remains the undisputed favorite for premium smokers, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Known for its distinct charcoal filter and smooth taste, it maintains a “luxury” status that few other brands can rival.
- Canadian Classics: Originally a regional favorite, Canadian Classics has evolved into a reliable mid-range option. It appeals to long-time smokers who prefer a traditional “Canadian” tobacco flavor profile without the premium price tag of Belmont or Benson & Hedges.
- Benson & Hedges: This remains the company’s flagship international premium brand. It is often preferred by smokers who travel or those who prefer “100s” (long cigarettes) and gold-foil luxury packaging.
Key Information for 2026:
- Market Position: #2 Tobacco Company in Canada.
- Popular Brands: Next, Belmont, Canadian Classics, Benson & Hedges, Rothmans, Accord.
- Website: https://www.rbhinc.ca/
- Headquarters Address: 1500 Don Mills Road, North York, ON M3B 3L1
- Phone Number: 416-442-3555
3. JTI-Macdonald Corp.
JTI-Macdonald Corp. is the Canadian subsidiary of Japan Tobacco International (JTI) and stands as the third-largest tobacco manufacturer in Canada.
While the company has a legacy dating back to 1858, its 2026 market strategy in Ontario is defined by its massive footprint in the “Value” and “Heritage” segments, helping them capture smokers who are increasingly price-sensitive.
In the 2026 economy, JTI-Macdonald has seen a significant surge in demand because they own some of the most recognizable “working-class” brands in the province.
- LD (The Budget Champion): As of 2026, LD is one of the fastest-growing cigarette brands in Ontario. By positioning LD at the absolute lower end of the “Budget” price spectrum—often several dollars cheaper per pack than premium rivals—JTI-Macdonald has captured a large portion of smokers who have downgraded from more expensive brands to save money.
- Export A: Known for its “Green” and “Full-Flavour” varieties, Export A is a Canadian heritage brand with a fiercely loyal following in Ontario. It is positioned as a high-quality, mid-to-premium product that appeals to smokers who prefer a stronger, traditional tobacco taste.
- Macdonald: This brand serves as the company’s bedrock in the value segment. For over 150 years, the “Macdonald Special” and “Macdonald Gold” lines have been staples in Ontario convenience stores, offering a consistent experience at a price point that remains accessible.
- Camel & Winston: These globally recognized flagship brands allow JTI-Macdonald to compete in the international-premium space. In 2026, Camel continues to attract younger adult smokers and those looking for a specific American-style tobacco blend.
Key Information for 2026:
- Market Position: #3 Tobacco Company in Canada.
- Popular Brands: LD, Export A, Macdonald, Camel, Winston, Mevius.
- Website: https://www.jti.com/canada
- Headquarters Address: 1601-1 Robert Speck Parkway, Mississauga, ON L4Z 0A2
- Phone Number: 905-804-7300
4. Grand River Enterprises Six Nations Ltd.
Grand River Enterprises Six Nations Ltd. is a Canadian tobacco company located in Ohsweken, Ontario, on the Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation. The company is the world’s largest manufacturer of Native American-branded cigarettes. It produces and markets various tobacco products under the Native brand, including cigarettes, pipe tobacco, and rolling papers.
Grand River Enterprises faced several challenges in its early years, including tension with the Canadian government over its tax-exempt status and competition from major multinational tobacco companies. However, it quickly established itself as a leading player in the Canadian tobacco market and began to expand internationally.
Today, Grand River Enterprises is one of the largest employers on the Six Nations reserve and has become an important contributor to the local economy. The company has also been praised for its commitment to sustainability and for supporting Indigenous initiatives such as education and health programs.
Website: https://grandriverenterprises.com/
Address: 2176 Chiefswood Rd, P.O. Box 760, Ohsweken, ON, Canada, N0A 1M0
Email: info@grandriverenterprises.com
Phone Number: 1-888-696-2224
Health Risks and Additional Costs of Smoking
Smoking is not only harmful to your health, but it can also be quite expensive. In addition to the cost of cigarettes, smokers also have to contend with higher insurance rates and the added cost of things like lighters and ashtrays.
Smoking has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. It is also a leading cause of death in Canada. According to Statistics Canada, smoking is responsible for about 45,000 deaths each year.
In addition to the health risks, smoking also imposes additional costs on smokers. Insurance companies typically charge higher premiums for smokers, as they are considered a greater risk. Smokers also tend to spend more on things like lighters and ashtrays.
If you are a smoker or considering taking up smoking, it is important to be aware of the risks and costs involved. Quitting smoking is the best way to protect your health and save money in the long run.
Alternatives to Cigarettes
There are a number of alternatives to cigarettes available on the market today. These include electronic cigarettes, herbal cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco products.
Electronic cigarettes are battery-operated devices that simulate the experience of smoking without producing any combustion or smoke. Herbal cigarettes are made from a variety of natural ingredients and do not contain nicotine. Smokeless tobacco products, such as snus and chewable tobacco, deliver nicotine without producing any smoke.
Each of these alternative products comes with its own set of risks and benefits. Electronic cigarettes may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, but there is still limited research on their long-term safety.
Herbal cigarettes are unlikely to cause cancer but may contain other harmful chemicals. Smokeless tobacco products are associated with an increased risk of mouth cancer, but they may be less harmful than smoking in general.
Choosing an alternative to traditional cigarettes is a personal decision that should be made after careful consideration of the risks and benefits involved.
Conclusion
After looking at the top 4 brands of cigarettes in Ontario, you can see what prices to expect when purchasing cigarettes in Ontario. With taxes and additional fees included, the price of a pack of cigarettes can add up quickly. However, it is important to remember that smoking has significant health risks and should be avoided whenever possible.
The most affordable way to avoid these health risks is simply not to smoke; however, if you decide to purchase a pack of cigarettes in Ontario, understanding the different brand pricing will help ensure you get the best deal on your smokes.
FAQ – How Much is a Pack of Cigarettes in Ontario?
How much is a carton of 200 cigarettes in Ontario?
As of April 1, 2026, a carton of 200 cigarettes in Ontario typically costs between $135.00 and $160.00. While Ontario is more affordable than provinces like British Columbia or Newfoundland, it remains higher than Quebec.
The most popular brands currently sold in Ontario are Next, Belmont, Du Maurier, and Player’s.
How much is a package of cigarettes in Toronto?
In Toronto, a standard package of 20–25 cigarettes typically costs between $13.00 and $18.50, depending on the brand category (Value vs. Premium). Prices are inclusive of the 13% HST and the combined provincial and federal excise duties.
Note: Smoking is prohibited in most public places in Toronto, including parks, beaches, and within 9 meters of hospital entrances.
What are the cheapest cigarettes in Ontario?
The most affordable mainstream cigarettes in Ontario for 2026 are “Value” brands such as Next, LD, and Pall Mall, which generally retail for $11.50 – $13.50 per pack.
For even lower prices, consumers often visit Indigenous reserves where tax-exempt brands like Putters or Sago can be found for significantly less (though legal restrictions apply to off-reserve possession).
How much is the cheapest pack of cigarettes?
The cheapest mainstream pack of cigarettes from a reputable brand (like Next) is approximately $11.50. While some off-brand or specialty “mini” packs may exist for slightly less, $11.50 is the standard 2026 entry price for a legal, duty-paid pack of 20.
What is the smallest cigarette size in Canada?
In Canada, the “Regular” size cigarette is the smallest standard length at 72mm. This is shorter than the “King Size” (84mm) and the “100s” (100mm). In the United States, the standard “King Size” is 84mm, while their “100s” are often marketed as the premium long-format option.
