How Much Does a Pound of Weed Cost?

Last Updated on May 19, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by Certified CFA CFA Alexander Popinker

Cannabis is big business nowadays, but how much is a pound of weed actually worth these days? With legalization sweeping across the U.S., the cannabis market continues to evolve. This article will break down how much a pound of cannabis costs on average, common measurements, and factors that affect price per pound.

Highlights

  • Expect to pay anywhere from $800 – $2500+ per pound retail.
  • Many factors like quality, location, and regulations cause prices to vary widely.
  • Buy directly from growers for better wholesale pound pricing.
  • Understand measurements like grams, ounces, and pounds when researching prices.
  • Ensure you follow local laws if interested in buying a full pound.
  • Purchase from licensed dispensaries and growers for safety and quality assurance.

How Much Does a Pound of Weed Cost?

The price of a pound of cannabis can fluctuate dramatically based on quality, where it was grown, current laws, and other economic factors. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 – $2,500 for a pound of good quality cannabis from a dispensary or licensed grower.

However, that number can change quickly based on the factors below:

Potency and Quality

  • Like wine, the quality and potency (THC levels) greatly impact the price per pound. High-quality strains with 20%+ THC can fetch a much higher price.

Where It’s Grown

  • Outdoor-grown cannabis in ideal climates often costs less than indoor hydroponic pounds. Environment controls and increased costs affect price.

Supply and Demand

  • In areas where recreational cannabis is legal, increased supply from local growers can drive price per pound down.

Regulations and Taxes

  • States with legal recreational cannabis charge higher taxes, which bumps up the retail price per pound. However, due to more competition, growers often earn less pre-tax.

Price per Pound of Cannabis by Quality

Weed LeafTaking all of these factors into account, here are some rough averages for price per pound:

  • Low-quality outdoor pound: $800 – $1,200
  • Good quality indoor pound: $1,400 – $1,800
  • Top shelf, high THC pound: $1,800 – $2,500+

However, it’s impossible to give an exact number. You’ll find a huge range when researching current price per pound of cannabis based on all the factors mentioned earlier. Expect to pay more at a dispensary and less when buying directly from a grower.

Measurements and Slang Terms for Cannabis

It helps to understand the common measurements and slang terms used for different amounts of cannabis:

  • Gram (g) – The metric system measurement for cannabis. There are 453 grams in a pound.
  • 1/8th – Equivalent to 3.5 grams of cannabis. Called an “eighth”.
  • Quarter (qtr) – 7 grams or 1/4th of an ounce.
  • Ounce (oz) – The most common measurement. 1 ounce = 28 grams.
  • Pound (lb) – 16 ounces makes a pound. There are 448 grams in pound.

The average price for a gram of good quality cannabis is around $10-$15 depending on your location. So as you increase quantity, the price per gram or ounce goes down.

You might also like our articles about the cost of vapes and cigars.

Why Buy a Full Pound of Cannabis?

For the average cannabis consumer buying personal use amounts, purchasing a full pound of cannabis isn’t practical or legal in most states. However, there are several reasons someone may want to buy a pound of cannabis:

  • Reselling – Pounds purchased wholesale can be broken down into smaller amounts and resold at a profit. This may occur in states without legal recreational sales.
  • Large-scale Processing – CBD and THC extraction labs buy pounds of cannabis trim to make oils, edibles, and other products. Buying in bulk brings down costs.
  • Growing at Home – In some states, adults can legally grow 4-6 cannabis plants at home. You can yield a pound or more per plant indoor.

If you’re interested in purchasing a pound of cannabis for any of the above reasons, be sure to research your local laws first and always buy from reputable sources. State-licensed growers and dispensaries follow strict regulations for safety and quality.

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