US cigar prices - question.

[Robert747]

We often look in envy at some of the cigar prices in the States (even allowing for some dramatic rises in recent times). Cigar Aficionado, ECCJ and other magazines list comparison prices with other markets - when we compare with US prices do they (the US prices) include local tax? I ask because I know the tax rates vary greatly so how true are the US prices we are seeing - any recent examples? How much can the same cigar vary in price across the States

[rokkitsci]

I'll take this onel...

variation is very small, if anything. Mostly, cigar price is fixed regardless of state. Some states, Florida for instance, charge a sales tax (6%) on purchases made within state. Most other states have not regulated internet commerce as yet, but I'm sure we'll be seeing it soon.

hth

We often look in envy at some of the cigar prices in the States (even allowing for some dramatic rises in recent times). Cigar Aficionado, ECCJ and other magazines list comparison prices with other markets - when we compare with US prices do they (the US prices) include local tax? I ask because I know the tax rates vary greatly so how true are the US prices we are seeing - any recent examples? How much can the same cigar vary in price across the States

[SeanP]

Most prices are similar across the board in the US. Sales tax is one of the only differences which ranges from 0%-12% depending on locality of the vendor (this is state to state and sometimes local within the state). I think NY state is the exception (correct me if I'm wrong) with an additional tax levied at the till.

If you buy online in a differing state then the shipping address it is your responsibility to pay tax to your state. So when I would purchase cigars from Pennsylvania and ship them to Virginia I would only pay the price + shipping (when applicable)...then report the sale to my state, of course!