New UK data for 2025 indicates that over one million people who state they have never tried a cigarette are now vapers. This figure marks an increase from approximately 940,000 in 2024.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that for the second year running, more over-16s are using vapes or e-cigarettes than smoking cigarettes, with 5.4 million vaping compared to 4.9 million smoking. The number of smokers in the UK continues to fall, reaching nearly one in 10 adults, down from 5.3 million in 2024.
The 25-35 age group has now overtaken 16 to 24-year-olds as the most frequent vapers, with 16.4% using e-cigarettes daily or occasionally. David Mais from the ONS suggested this could be due to existing users getting older, growing popularity in this age group, or a combination of both factors.
The NHS states that vaping is less harmful than smoking, though its long-term effects are not yet clear. It advises that non-smokers and individuals aged 17 and under should never vape.