In this article, we are going to discuss the 5 states that legalized recreational weed in the US. If you want to check out our detailed analysis of the cannabis industry in America, the effect of legalization on prices, and the fastest growing category in the cannabis industry, head to 24 States that Legalized Recreational Weed in the US.
5. California
Legalization Measure Approved: November 2016
California is the state with the best weed in America in 2023, as per the quality and availability of the plant. The price per pound of cannabis fell in 2021 because of massive overproduction across California. The tough competition from the black market also forces retailers to keep prices low, as 2 out of every 3 cannabis purchases are made in the illicit market.
With $5.3 billion in legal sales last year, the Sunshine State is the Largest Cannabis Market in the World.
4. Oregon
Legalization Measure Approved: November 2014
Since the inception of Oregon’s legal cannabis market in 2015, it has become an almost $1 billion industry. Portland was declared the ‘Best Weed City’ of 2023, according to a study by Real Estate Witch and Leafly. Portland Community College is now offering cannabis programs to students who want to pursue a career in the marijuana industry upon graduation.
3. Alaska
Legalization Measure Approved: November 2014
At $50 per ounce of flower, Alaska’s tax on marijuana is among the highest in the nation. When local taxes are also added to the mix, Alaska taxes marijuana more heavily than any other state. The Last Frontier’s cannabis industry is saying that a change in the state’s tax rates is desperately needed to help legal marijuana businesses compete with the black market.
2. Washington
Legalization Measure Approved: November 2012
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell signed three ordinances last year aimed at improving equity and helping people of color break into the state’s mostly white legal cannabis industry. Retail sales of cannabis reached $1.4 billion in Washington last year, with the state collecting a total of $515.2 million in legal marijuana income, including $4.1 million in cannabis license fees. Nearly half of all marijuana revenues go to the Basic Health Plan Trust Account.
1. Colorado
Legalization Measure Approved: November 2012
Famous for its craft beer scene, The Centennial State is also home to Ceria Brewing Co., which became a pioneer of marijuana infused beverages when it debuted its first THC beer in 2018.
As marijuana sales cool across the state, Denver reported a 22% decline in weed sales from 2021 to 2022 – the largest annual drop since legalization. With weed sales plummeting, career opportunities in the industry are growing scarce. Colorado ranked as the No. 2 state for cannabis job losses in the last year, with more than 10,000 eliminated.
Colorado, together with Washington, was the First State to Legalize Recreational Marijuana in the U.S.
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