Why Gen Z is Quitting Vaping in 2026

After years of rising vaping rates among young people, 2026 is marking a turning point. A growing movement of Gen Z is actively choosing to quit—and they're being vocal about why.

The Numbers Are Shifting

For the first time in a decade, youth vaping rates are showing meaningful decline. According to recent surveys, the percentage of 18-25 year olds who vape regularly has dropped from its 2023 peak. While still a significant public health concern, the trend line is finally moving in the right direction.

But what's driving this change? We looked at the data and talked to young people who've quit to understand the shift.

Financial Reality Hits Hard

With inflation and cost of living concerns affecting young adults disproportionately, the math on vaping is getting harder to ignore. At $20-40 per week for many regular vapers, that's $1,000-2,000 per year—money that could go toward rent, travel, or paying down student loans.

"I realized I was spending more on vaping than on my Spotify, Netflix, and gym membership combined," says Marcus, 24, who quit six months ago. "That hit different."

Mental Health Awareness

Gen Z is the most mental-health-aware generation in history, and they're increasingly connecting the dots between nicotine and anxiety. Research showing that nicotine actually increases long-term anxiety—despite providing temporary relief—is resonating with a generation that prioritizes mental wellness.

"I was vaping to calm my anxiety, but then I learned it was probably making my anxiety worse," explains Jenna, 22. "Once I understood the cycle, I couldn't unsee it."

Social Media Influence (The Good Kind)

The same platforms that once spread vaping culture are now amplifying quit stories. TikTok creators sharing their quit journeys, the physical improvements they've noticed, and the money they've saved are inspiring others to try.

Hashtags like #QuitVaping and #NicotineFree have billions of views, with content ranging from day-by-day withdrawal updates to celebrations of long-term milestones.

The "Cringe" Factor

Social perception is shifting. What was once seen as cool or at least neutral is increasingly viewed as outdated—even embarrassing. Young people report that vaping is losing its social cachet.

"Honestly, it's giving 2019 energy at this point," one college student told us. "Nobody thinks it's cool anymore. It's just an addiction."

Health Concerns Go Mainstream

EVALI scares, ongoing research about lung health, and anecdotal reports of "vaper's cough" have accumulated into genuine health anxiety. Young people who started vaping believing it was "harmless" are questioning that assumption.

The lack of long-term data is itself a concern: "We're the guinea pig generation for vaping," notes Alex, 23. "I don't want to find out in 20 years that I messed up my lungs."

Better Quit Resources

Previous quit resources were designed for cigarette smokers—often older adults with different patterns and motivations. The emergence of vape-specific quit apps, online communities, and content has made quitting feel more accessible and relevant to young vapers.

What This Means Going Forward

While it's too early to declare victory, these trends suggest a cultural shift in the making. Gen Z's willingness to talk openly about addiction, prioritize mental health, and reject behavior that doesn't align with their values is creating momentum for change.

If you're part of this wave—or thinking about joining it—know that you're not alone. The resources, community support, and success stories are out there. 2026 might just be your year to quit.