Smokers Caught Off Guard: New Jersey Quietly Hikes Cigarette and Vape Taxes Overnight

Trenton, NJ—August 1, 2025:
Smokers and vapers across New Jersey woke up to an unexpected jolt today—not from their morning puff, but from their wallets. Without much warning, a sharp increase in cigarette and vaping taxes quietly kicked in, leaving many residents frustrated and shocked.

Starting August 1, the tax on cigarettes has surged by 30 cents, bringing the total to $3 per pack—placing New Jersey among the states with the highest tobacco taxes in the country. Meanwhile, the cost of vaping just got steeper too. The tax on liquid nicotine cartridges has tripled, jumping from 10 cents to 30 cents each.

This unexpected price hike looks to be a financial strategy for regular users. Health experts praise the idea for decreasing addiction and increasing wellness, but detractors argue it unfairly affects low-income people and smokers converting to vaping.

State action is part of a bigger drive to reduce nicotine use, support healthcare, and handle fiscal concerns. Many people were stressed rather than excited by today’s news.

Will these new taxes lead to healthier habits—or just heavier burdens? One thing’s certain: lighting up in New Jersey just got a lot more expensive.