Negative incentive contrast is characterized by increased response latencies for an upcoming small reward when preceded by a larger reward. We evaluated the aversive properties of negative incentive contrast using an operant, simultaneous contrast paradigm. Fischer 344 and Lewis rats were exposed to incentive shifts across a range of fixed-ratios (costs). Fischer 344 rats showed greater negative incentive contrast than Lewis rats and cost-modulated effects. Negative incentive shifts may elicit negative affective responses in line with emotionality accounts of negative incentive contrast.