Introduction

The cannabis industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by shifting public perceptions, evolving regulations, and growing consumer demand. As more states and countries around the world legalize cannabis for both medicinal and recreational purposes, the market is witnessing unprecedented growth. With new opportunities emerging in everything from cultivation and retail to technology and healthcare, the cannabis sector is becoming one of the most dynamic and lucrative industries worldwide.

In this article, we'll dive deep into over 30 key cannabis industry statistics, shedding light on the most important trends, market shifts, and future projections for 2025 and beyond. Whether you're looking to invest, start a business, or simply stay informed about one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global economy, these insights will provide the data you need to understand the bigger picture.

Let’s uncover the powerful numbers that are driving the cannabis industry's rapid expansion and what they mean for the future.

Top Findings: Cannabis Industry Statistics for 2025

Global Market Expansion: The global cannabis market is projected to grow from $57.18 billion in 2023 to $444.34 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34.03%.
U.S. Market Growth: In the U.S., the cannabis market is expected to reach $45.35 billion in 2025, with a CAGR of 2.24% from 2025 to 2029, bringing the market volume to $49.56 billion by 2029.
U.S. Market Size Expansion: The U.S. cannabis market, valued at $33.60 billion in 2023, is set to grow at a CAGR of 12.10% from 2024 to 2030.
Cannabis Employment: The legal cannabis sector supports approximately 440,445 full-time equivalent jobs in the U.S., making it a major employment sector.
Millennial and Gen Z Market Share: Millennials account for 46.2% of total cannabis sales in the U.S., while Gen Z is the fastest-growing demographic, showing an 11.3% year-over-year increase in market share. Combined, these two groups make up 62.8% of all U.S. cannabis sales.
Cannabis Tax Revenue: Legal cannabis sales globally are expected to generate $15.6 billion in tax revenue by 2025, with the U.S. contributing the largest share.
Adult-Use Cannabis Market: The adult-use cannabis market is predicted to reach a value of approximately $37 billion by 2026, driven by increased consumer acceptance.
Pharmaceutical Investment: The pharmaceutical industry is expected to invest $5 billion by 2025 in cannabis-based drug development, focusing on treatments for conditions such as PTSD, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain.
Cannabis Use in the U.S.: Nearly 47% of Americans have tried cannabis, and support for legalization has reached an all-time high of 88%, reflecting a significant shift in societal attitudes toward cannabis.
Growth of Online Sales: Online cannabis sales are projected to increase by 300% by 2025, driven by the convenience of digital platforms and expanding delivery services.
Global Cannabis Investments: Cannabis investments globally are expected to surpass $100 billion by 2025, signaling a strong confidence in the industry’s continued growth.
Increasing International Legalization: As more countries and states legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, the global cannabis market is expected to see greater cross-border trade and collaboration, contributing to overall industry expansion.

Cannabis Industry Overview

The cannabis industry is undergoing a monumental transformation, rapidly emerging as one of the most dynamic sectors in the global economy. As legalization spreads across the globe, this market has witnessed incredible growth, driven by both medical and recreational cannabis products. In 2025, the global cannabis market is expected to reach an impressive size of $39.05 billion, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.40% from 2021 to 2025. This surge signifies the industry's widespread acceptance and its growing role in economies worldwide.

A significant portion of the market is attributed to medical cannabis, which holds around 20-30% of the global cannabis share. As more countries recognize the therapeutic potential of cannabis, medical products such as CBD oils, tinctures, and cannabis-based pharmaceuticals continue to gain traction, contributing to the industry's expansion. Alongside this, the recreational cannabis market is growing exponentially, with U.S. states and countries like Canada leading the way in legalization and consumption.

The cannabis sector's impact goes beyond market size, with job creation emerging as a major benefit. By 2025, the industry is projected to generate over 500,000 jobs in the U.S. alone, reflecting the economic and employment opportunities it fosters across various sectors, from cultivation and retail to research and technology.

Tax revenue from cannabis sales is also skyrocketing, with the U.S. expected to contribute $21 billion in tax revenue by 2025. This funding plays a vital role in supporting public services and infrastructure, particularly in states where cannabis legalization has taken root. In terms of investment, the global cannabis sector is expected to surpass $100 billion by 2025, with investors showing strong confidence in the industry's potential for long-term growth.

The consumer demographics are also evolving rapidly. Millennials are currently responsible for 46.2% of total cannabis sales in the U.S., making them a key driving force in the market. However, it’s Gen Z that is emerging as the fastest-growing demographic, with their year-over-year market share increasing at an impressive rate. These trends underscore the shifting cultural acceptance of cannabis, particularly among younger generations.

Top cannabis markets include the U.S., Canada, Germany, the U.K., and Italy, each playing a pivotal role in shaping the global landscape of cannabis production, distribution, and consumption. As the industry continues to grow, these markets will remain critical in setting the tone for both regulations and innovations within the cannabis sector. This overview serves as a snapshot of a thriving industry that is transforming economies, creating jobs, and reshaping societal perceptions of cannabis worldwide.

Top Cannabis Industry Statistics 2025

Here, we will walk you through the 7 key categories of cannabis industry statistics, offering a comprehensive view of global market trends, legalization progress, consumer demographics, and more. These statistics provide valuable insights into the current landscape of the cannabis industry and its direction through 2025 and beyond.

Let's explore the data:

1) Global Cannabis Industry Growth

The global cannabis market is projected to reach $63.75 billion by 2025, fueled by expanding legalization and increasing consumer demand across both medical and recreational markets. (Source)
The cannabis cultivation market is set to see exponential growth, with projections estimating it will hit $407.91 billion by 2029, growing at an impressive CAGR of 18.2%. (Source)
The U.S. remains the global leader in cannabis revenue, expected to generate $45.35 billion in 2025, showcasing its dominance in the sector. (Source)
Global sales of CBD, medical, and adult-use cannabis reached $45 billion in 2022 and are forecasted to exceed $101 billion by 2026, indicating explosive growth in the coming years. (Source)

2) Cannabis Usage and Demographics

A 2022 NIH report revealed that 43% of young adults used marijuana in 2021, with 29% reporting use within the last month. This highlights the growing acceptance and use of cannabis among younger generations. Millennials remain the dominant consumer demographic, accounting for a significant share of cannabis sales. Gen Z, however, is emerging as the fastest-growing market segment, showing robust year-over-year growth. (Source)

3) CBD Market Growth

The CBD market is set to grow to $16 billion by 2025, driven by the increasing demand for wellness products such as CBD oils, topicals, edibles, and tinctures. As consumer interest in wellness products that promote relaxation, pain relief, and mental clarity continues to rise, the CBD sector remains a key driver of overall cannabis market expansion. (Source)

4) Global Cannabis Consumption

Approximately 147 million people, or 2.5% of the global population, are estimated to use cannabis annually. This far surpasses the usage rates for other illicit substances, such as cocaine and opiates, which have consumption rates of 0.2%. As legalization spreads, more people are gaining access to cannabis products, contributing to the normalization of its use and the overall market's growth. (Source)

5) Medical Cannabis Demand

The demand for medical cannabis is on the rise globally, with the U.S. leading the charge in both revenue generation and investment opportunities. As more states adopt medical cannabis programs, the market for treatments aimed at conditions like chronic pain, PTSD, and epilepsy continues to expand. Pharmaceutical investments in cannabis-based treatments are expected to grow, with significant research and development being funneled into cannabinoid therapies. (Source)

6) Cannabis Plant Cultivation Market

The global cannabis plant cultivation market, valued at $392.1 billion in 2022, is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 21.3% from 2023 to 2030, reflecting the increasing demand for cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. (Source)
Hemp remains the dominant segment in cannabis cultivation, accounting for 78.7% of total revenue based on biomass, due to its versatility in products ranging from textiles and CBD to construction materials. (Source)

7) Top Companies in the Cannabis Market

Leading companies in the legal cannabis sector include global players like The Cronos Group, Tilray, Aurora Cannabis, and Sundial Growers, as well as prominent brands such as Marley Natural and Medcan Australia. These companies are at the forefront of innovations in cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution, driving the market's expansion with investments in both recreational and medical cannabis sectors. (Source)

8) Investment and Market Projections

Global cannabis investments are expected to surpass $100 billion by 2025. This influx of capital is spurring innovation across the cannabis supply chain, including advancements in cultivation technology, distribution networks, and product development. (Source)

Cannabis Legalization Statistics

Cannabis legalization is rapidly transforming global markets and reshaping the landscape of both medical and recreational cannabis use. As more countries and states move toward legalization, the sector continues to grow, creating new economic opportunities and driving a shift in social perceptions.

Here are some key statistics on cannabis legalization that showcase its impact on society and the industry:

Public Support for Legalization (Source)

Around 57% of Americans support the legalization of marijuana for both medical and recreational use, while 32% believe it should be legal only for medical use. This growing support underscores the shift in societal attitudes toward cannabis.

2. Support by Age Group (Source)

Among adults aged 75 and older, 31% support marijuana legalization for both medical and recreational use, compared to 50% of individuals aged 65 to 74. This highlights generational differences in the acceptance of cannabis legalization.

3. Global Spending Projections (Source)

Global spending on legal cannabis is projected to reach $50 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 13.7% from 2020, with expectations to hit $57 billion by 2030. This growth reflects the increasing adoption of cannabis legalization worldwide.

4. State-Level Legalization (Source)

As of now, 24 states, two territories, and Washington, D.C. have legalized recreational cannabis, while medical cannabis is legal in 40 states. With more states expected to follow suit in 2025, the trend toward full cannabis legalization is accelerating.

5. European Cannabis Market Growth (Source)

The European legal cannabis market was valued at €354 million in 2022 and grew to €516 million in 2023, highlighting the increasing adoption of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes across Europe.

6. Support Among Users (Source)

70% of people who have tried marijuana support its recreational legalization, compared to 26% of those who have never tried it and are opposed to it. This statistic suggests that first-hand experience with cannabis strongly correlates with support for its legalization.

7. Countries with Legalized Recreational Cannabis (Source)

Commercial sales of recreational cannabis are legalized nationwide in three countries: Canada, Thailand, and Uruguay, along with all U.S. jurisdictions that have legalized possession, excluding Washington, D.C.

8. Economic Impact of Legalization (Source)

Approximately 52% of adults believe that legalizing recreational marijuana benefits local economies, while 17% feel it has a negative impact. 29% believe it has no effect, demonstrating the broad economic potential of cannabis legalization.

9. Statewide Legalization in the U.S. (Source)

Over 54% of Americans reside in states where both recreational and medical marijuana are legal, and 74% live in states where marijuana is legal for either medical, recreational, or both uses.

10. Political Party Support (Source)

Among conservative and moderate Democrats, 62% support marijuana legalization for both medical and recreational use, while 84% of liberal Democrats share this view. This suggests strong bipartisan support, especially among progressive groups.

11. North American Market Growth (Source)

Analysts forecast that the North American cannabis market—including legal adult-use and medical sales—will reach $46.5 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2020, driven by continued legalization efforts and market maturation.

12. Projected Sales Growth in Legalized States (Source)

According to New Frontier Data and Global Cannabinoids, legal cannabis sales in currently legalized states are expected to grow at a CAGR of 14% over the next six years, reflecting continued industry expansion in regions where cannabis use is legalized.

Cannabis Use Disorder Statistics

Cannabis use disorder (CUD) refers to a pattern of problematic cannabis consumption that leads to significant impairment or distress. Understanding the prevalence, demographics, and impacts of CUD is crucial for addressing the health concerns related to cannabis use.

Here are some insightful statistics on cannabis use disorder that shed light on its scope and consequences:

Global Prevalence (Source)

Around 22 million people worldwide suffer from cannabis use disorder, representing approximately 10% of regular cannabis users. This highlights the significant portion of cannabis users who develop problematic consumption habits.

2. Risk of Developing CUD (Source)

Studies suggest that about 30% of cannabis users may experience cannabis use disorder (CUD), pointing to the potential for problematic and addictive consumption habits among a large segment of the cannabis-using population.

3. Adolescence and Increased Risk (Source)

Using cannabis during adolescence increases the risk of developing cannabis use disorder by a factor of three compared to adult use. Adolescents are more vulnerable due to their developing brains, which are more susceptible to the addictive effects of cannabis.

4. Cannabis and Driving Accidents (Source)

Marijuana is the most frequently detected illicit drug in drivers involved in fatal accidents, accounting for around 14% of cases. Often, this is in combination with alcohol or other substances, amplifying the risks associated with impaired driving.

5. Addiction Rates (Source)

Cannabis can indeed be addictive. Studies reveal that about 9% of all cannabis users develop an addiction, with the rate jumping to 17% among those who start using cannabis at a young age, demonstrating the increased vulnerability of early cannabis use.

6. Cannabis Use and Mental Health (Source)

Research shows that 27% of individuals who visited an emergency department due to cannabis use developed a new anxiety disorder within three years. This underscores the mental health risks associated with regular cannabis consumption.

7. Global Usage Ranking (Source)

Cannabis is the third most widely used controlled substance globally, following alcohol and tobacco, which hold the top two positions. This highlights the widespread global use of cannabis and its significant place in the substance use landscape.

Global Prevalence of Cannabis Use by Region

8. Cognitive Impairment (Source)

Regular marijuana use has been shown to impair cognitive function, potentially leading to a decrease in IQ by as much as 8 points. This cognitive decline is concerning, particularly for younger individuals whose brains are still developing.

9. Youth and Depression (Source)

Girls aged 14-15 who use marijuana daily are 5 times more likely to suffer from depression by the age of 21, illustrating the long-term mental health impacts of early and frequent cannabis use.

10. Early Use and Mental Illness (Source)

Individuals who begin using marijuana before the age of 12 are twice as likely to develop a mental illness compared to those who start at age 18 or older. This emphasizes the risks of early exposure to cannabis on mental health.

11. Brain Function and Cannabis (Source) (Source)

Cannabis use directly impacts several brain regions responsible for memory, learning, attention, decision-making, coordination, emotion, and reaction time. These disruptions can have lasting effects on an individual's cognitive and emotional functioning.

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Cannabis Consumption Demographics Statistics

Understanding the demographics of cannabis consumption is essential for grasping the broader trends driving the industry. This section provides a detailed look at the key factors influencing cannabis use, including age, gender, ethnicity, education, and regional preferences.

These insights offer valuable perspectives on who is consuming cannabis and how it varies across different groups.

High School Experimentation (Source)

According to the CDC, nearly 40% of high school students have experimented with marijuana at some point. This statistic highlights the early exposure and growing acceptance of cannabis use among younger populations.

2. Marijuana Usage in the U.S. (Source)

15% of Americans, according to combined data from Gallup (2023-2024), report using marijuana, reflecting the widespread adoption of cannabis use in the U.S.

3. Youthful First Use (Source)

Almost 53% of marijuana users aged 18 or older, whether current or former users, report that they first tried marijuana between the ages of 12 and 17. This indicates that a significant portion of cannabis users begin their consumption during adolescence.

4. Gender Differences (Source)

17% of men report using marijuana, compared to 11% of women. This gender gap suggests that men are more likely to engage in cannabis use, though women’s consumption is also notable.

5. Age Demographics (Source)

Marijuana use is most prevalent among younger adults:

19% of those aged 18-34 report using cannabis.
18% of those aged 35-54 also consume marijuana.
Only 10% of adults aged 55 and older use marijuana, showcasing a decline in use among older generations.
6. Ethnic Differences in Usage (Source)

Among major ethnic groups in the U.S., Black Americans have the highest cannabis usage rate at 10.7%, followed by White Americans at 8.4% and Hispanic Americans at 7.2%. These figures suggest differing cultural and societal attitudes toward cannabis consumption across ethnic lines.

7. Youth Disapproval (Source)

Among 12th graders, a significant 64.7% express disapproval of regular marijuana use by adults, reflecting societal concerns and generational differences in perceptions of cannabis.

8. Education and Consumption (Source)

Marijuana use is more prevalent among adults without a college degree, with 17% reporting use compared to just 11% of college graduates. This suggests that higher educational attainment may correlate with lower rates of cannabis consumption.

9. Regional Variations (Source)

The West leads with the highest marijuana usage rate at 19%.
The Midwest and East both report usage rates of 16%.
The South has the lowest rate, with only 11% of residents reporting marijuana use. This geographical variance highlights cultural and legal differences that influence cannabis consumption patterns across the U.S.

Medical Cannabis Market Statistics

The medical cannabis industry is experiencing swift expansion, fueled by growing awareness of its therapeutic potential. These statistics provide valuable insights into the emerging trends and factors influencing the future of cannabis in healthcare.

Global Medical Cannabis Market Value (Source)

The global medical cannabis market was valued at $37.0 billion in 2024. This impressive figure reflects the increasing acceptance and demand for medical cannabis products, as well as growing recognition of its therapeutic benefits in treating various conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. With expanding legalization and scientific validation, the market is poised for continued growth.

2. Projected Growth of the Medical Cannabis Market (2025-2033) (Source)

The global medical cannabis market is projected to reach $68.6 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is largely driven by increased medical adoption, expanding legalization efforts across the globe, and greater awareness of cannabis' potential health benefits. The rising demand for alternative treatments in healthcare is expected to continue propelling the market forward.

3. Global Medical Cannabis Revenue Projections for 2025 (Source)

Global revenue in the medical cannabis market is projected to reach $21.04 billion by 2025. This significant milestone reflects the rapid adoption of medical cannabis, driven by legislative changes, patient demand, and clinical research supporting its use in medical treatments.

4. Leading Medical Cannabis Revenue in the U.S. (Source)

The U.S. is projected to lead globally in medical cannabis revenue, reaching $14.97 billion by 2025. On a per capita basis, revenue is expected to be $2,820. The U.S. market is driven by ongoing state-level legalization, growing patient access, and the expanding range of available medical cannabis products.

5. Dominance of Oil and Tincture Segment (2022) (Source)

The oil and tincture segment dominated the medical cannabis market in 2022, accounting for 53.4% of total revenue. This segment’s dominance is attributed to the growing demand for CBD-based products, which are popular for their potential benefits in managing inflammation, chronic pain, and other health conditions. The ease of use, precise dosing, and variety of delivery methods have contributed to the strong demand.

6. CBD as a Key Component in Medical Cannabis (Source)

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most widely researched phytocannabinoids, making up approximately 40% of medicinal cannabis compounds. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-psychoactive and is recognized for its potent immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Its therapeutic applications are diverse, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-seizure effects, contributing to its prominence in the medical cannabis market.

Cannabis Industry Employment Statistics

The cannabis industry is expanding rapidly, generating jobs at an unparalleled rate. In this section, we’ll dive into the most recent employment trends, including job growth, salary increases, workforce diversity, and the top career paths emerging within the sector. Let’s take a closer look:

Legal Cannabis Supports Over 440,000 Jobs (2024) (Source)

According to the 2024 Vangst Jobs Report, the legal cannabis industry in the U.S. now supports 440,445 full-time equivalent jobs. This marks the significant economic impact of cannabis legalization, which continues to create a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors, from cultivation to retail.

2. Hourly Wages in the Cannabis Industry (Source)

The hourly wages in the cannabis industry vary depending on the role. For example, Marijuana Budtenders earn an average of $16.97 per hour, while Brand Ambassadors can make up to $25.00 per hour. This shows a broad wage range, with roles in customer service generally earning less, while positions in marketing and branding offer higher pay.

3. Dispensary Manager Salaries (Source)

The average annual salary for a cannabis dispensary manager ranges from $60,000 to $120,000. Dispensary managers play a critical role in overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring compliance with regulations, and leading a team, which explains the competitive salary range for these positions.

4. Average Salaries Across Cannabis Roles (Source)

In the cannabis industry, salaries for various roles can differ significantly. Sales representatives earn an average annual salary of $69,447, while project managers make an average of $69,968 per year. This demonstrates the competitive wages in non-managerial roles within the sector, which have grown alongside industry expansion.

5. Average Annual Salary for Cannabis Workers in the U.S. (Source)

The average annual salary for a cannabis industry worker in the U.S. is $125,894, reflecting the rising demand for skilled workers in the legal cannabis sector. This includes roles across cultivation, distribution, sales, and compliance, offering a variety of career pathways within the industry.

6. Top 10 Cities for Cannabis Industry Salaries (Source)

The cannabis industry offers varying salary opportunities depending on the city. Below are the top ten cities with the highest cannabis industry salaries, reflecting the regional variations in compensation.

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Final Thoughts

The cannabis industry is on an extraordinary growth trajectory, opening up a wealth of opportunities across multiple sectors. With rising employment, expanding market revenue, and an evolving regulatory landscape, the cannabis sector is positioning itself as a major player in the global economy.

For those looking to invest, pursue a career, or innovate in this rapidly expanding field, understanding these key industry trends is crucial. By staying informed, you can not only take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead but also play an active role in shaping the future of the cannabis market.

FAQs

The U.S. cannabis industry is a rapidly growing sector, projected to generate $45.35 billion in revenue by 2025. This growth is driven by expanding legalization and increasing consumer demand across both medical and recreational cannabis markets, making the U.S. the largest cannabis market in the world.
Globally, the cannabis industry is expected to surpass $63 billion in revenue by 2025, with significant contributions from both medical and recreational cannabis. The U.S. alone is forecast to generate $45 billion in cannabis-related revenue by 2025, underlining the industry's robust financial potential.
The fastest-growing cannabis markets are found in North America and Europe, with countries like Canada, certain U.S. states, and Germany leading the way. As more nations legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, markets in Latin America and Asia are also starting to gain momentum.
One of the primary challenges in cannabis regulation is the inconsistency between federal and state laws, particularly in the U.S. Other issues include banking restrictions, which make it difficult for cannabis businesses to access financial services, and the need for clear, standardized regulations across the industry.
Cannabis consumption has evolved from being largely stigmatized to more widely accepted, with an increasing number of states and countries legalizing its use. Over the years, the market has shifted from illicit use to regulated dispensaries, with consumption patterns diversifying to include edibles, oils, and other products beyond smoking.

30+ Cannabis Industry Statistics: Growth & Trends in 2025