The total cost of cupcakes was 1.5*12=$<<1.5*12=18>>18

So they each paid 18/2=$<<18/2=9>>9

# Answer

9
<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
John and his best friend Steve bought 12 cupcakes together.  Each cupcake cost $1.50. If they split the costs evenly, how much did each person pay?
Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant

user
9
John and his best friend Steve bought 12 cupcakes together.  Each cupcake cost $1.50. If they split the costs evenly, how much did each person pay?
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