Cannabis flower prices and purchase sources varied widely across US state legal frameworks | Research

The takeaway

Survey data from 2019-2020 found cannabis flower prices and purchase sources differed significantly based on whether respondents lived in states with legal, medical-only, or illegal cannabis markets.

Cannabis policy researchers, regulators designing market structures, economists, and public health analysts.

Cannabis prices and purchase sources differed significantly by state legal status

What the researchers found

Cannabis prices and purchasing patterns differed significantly across states with different legal frameworks. Consumers in legal states had more options and different price structures than those in medical-only or prohibition states.

Why it matters

Cannabis pricing affects public health through accessibility, competition with illegal markets, and tax revenue. Understanding how legal frameworks shape pricing informs policy optimization.

The numbers in context

Survey data from 2019 and 2020. US respondents ages 16-65 who purchased dried cannabis flower. Prices and sources compared across states with legal, medical-only, and illegal frameworks.

How the study worked

Repeat cross-sectional survey data from the International Cannabis Policy Study (2019-2020). US respondents ages 16-65 recruited through online panels who purchased dried cannabis flower. Analyzed prices and sources by state legal status.

What this study cannot tell us

Online panel survey may not be representative. Self-reported prices subject to recall errors. Cannabis market conditions change rapidly. 2019-2020 data may not reflect current markets. Cannot verify purchase amounts or prices.

How to read the evidence

Repeat cross-sectional survey with appropriate methodology. Online panel may not be fully representative.

When this study was published

Published 2023. Survey data from 2019-2020.

The bigger picture

If legal cannabis is priced too high, consumers stay in the illegal market. If priced too low, it may increase use. Finding the right balance is one of the most important practical challenges in cannabis policy.

Questions still open

What price point optimally balances illegal market displacement with public health goals? How have prices changed since more states legalized?

Common questions

Is legal cannabis more expensive than illegal cannabis?

It varies. This study found that prices and sources differed across state legal frameworks. Legal markets often include taxes that raise retail prices, but competition among licensed retailers can also drive prices down over time. The relationship between legal and illegal market pricing is dynamic.

Where do people buy cannabis?

Purchase sources depend heavily on legal status. In fully legal states, consumers had more source options including licensed dispensaries. In medical-only and illegal states, consumers relied more on social networks and illegal dealers.

Read the original research

Prices and Purchase Sources for Dried Cannabis Flower in the United States, 2019-2020.

Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 8(5), 923-932

View on PubMed ↗Publisher’s paper ↗

Citation

Wadsworth, Elle; Driezen, Pete; Pacula, Rosalie Liccardo; Kilmer, Beau; Hammond, David. (2023). Prices and Purchase Sources for Dried Cannabis Flower in the United States, 2019-2020.. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 8(5), 923-932. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0232