How Much is a Pound of Weed? Cost and Weight

The cost of a pound of weed varies from state to state due to location, taxes, quality, competition, supply, and demand. As of October 2023, we’ve compiled a report of the average cost depending on whether it’s grown indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse. We’ve also considered the cost difference if you buy for adult-use or as a medical patient. First, Let’s cover how much a pound of weed is both in price and weight and how it’s changed over the years.

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How much does a pound of weed cost in legal states?

In legalized jurisdictions, the average price of a pound of weed is $963 wholesale. However, it’s essential to know that the price has fluctuated significantly over the past few months. For instance, between late 2022 and early 2023, a pound of weed went for $950-$1000. During this spring’s rally up, the price rose to almost $1100 per pound wholesale. 

Now that we have established the price can be volatile, let’s delve deeper into the factors that influence the actual cost as of October 2023.

Average wholesale cost for recreational weed

Generally, if you’re buying an exotic or sought-after strain, the average wholesale cost per pound will be higher. With that said, the average price of a pound of weed for recreational use is around $1300. However, you can also purchase a pound of low-quality weed for as low as $500 wholesale. 

The tax rate is the major factor influencing the average recreational weed cost. The rate varies from 15% in Colorado to 37% in Washington. 

Another thing to understand about recreational weed tax is that it can be weight-based, potency-based, or a percentage of the overall price. Some administrations also levy multiple taxes on recreational cannabis, increasing the average cost.

The average cost of medicinal cannabis

The price of medical marijuana tends to be higher than recreational weed. This is because cannabis and cannabis products must pass intensive quality control and testing policies, which can increase the overall cost. 

Also, if more people accept and use medical cannabis to manage health issues, this increases demand, influencing the price of a pound of medicinal weed.  

In addition to the price of medicinal cannabis, you may also incur additional costs, such as a medical marijuana card. On average, expect to pay $50 to $200 when applying, and you may renew annually or biennially, depending on where you live.

Although most states tax medicinal marijuana, it’s usually lower than recreational weed.

Indoor vs outdoor vs greenhouse

This is another factor that can influence the average price of a pound of weed. For instance, weed grown indoors is more expensive than when grown outdoors. In an indoor setup, the crop is grown in a controlled environment, increasing the overhead costs.

One pound of indoor weed sold for $1298 in January 2023, while wholesale outdoor weed in the same period was selling at $480.

Greenhouse weed cultivation has a more significant saving margin than indoor grows. This dramatically reduces the price to about $633 wholesale in January 2023. 

Can you get discounts for buying in bulk?

As discussed above, one pound of weed is no cheap investment. Hence, you may want to get a discount when purchasing in bulk, saving you some bucks. 

Medical patients discounts

In states where medical marijuana is legalized, a medical patient can enjoy several discounts. Some dispensaries offer up to 50% off when making your first purchase. Additionally, the dispensary may have different pricing policies for medical patients. However, you must prove you’re qualified to use medical cannabis to enjoy these benefits.

Also, the tax rate on medical cannabis is usually lower than recreational weed, reducing the overall cost when buying in bulk. 

Coupons and promotions

Most dispensaries have loyalty programs to reward long-term patrons who regularly purchase bulk. You can redeem your coupons or promotions, reducing the average cost.

Also, the dispensary may offer personalized services to loyal customers, making them feel valued and appreciated. 

While you can enjoy discounts when buying in bulk, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding such purchases. Some states, such as California, allow you to purchase just above an ounce of weed; in Colorado, you can legally purchase and possess up to two ounces. 

No state in the USA specifically allows you to purchase a pound of bulk weed. However, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( IIHS), there are states where you can buy and possess more weed, especially for medical purposes. For instance, you can purchase more than 8 ounces in California when you prove it’s medically necessary.

How much does a pound of weed cost on the black market? 

The price of a pound of weed in the streets or black market will vary. For instance, in areas where recreational weed is illegal, people tend to purchase from the streets, increasing demand, and you may have to pay upwards of $1200 per pound.

If you live in a state where recreational and medical weed are legal, the street value tends to be lower. 

Despite the legalization of weed in many states, the black market is still booming. However, avoid purchasing weed from the streets as some dealers may lace their marijuana and it may not meet quality standards. Instead, buy your weed from a licensed and reputable local dispensary. 

How much does a pound of weed weigh?

A pound is quite a large amount of weed. A pound of weed contains 16 ounces or 448 grams. Just imagine lining up 448 one-gram joints side by side or just shy of 1500 bong bowls measuring 0.3 grams. 

As mentioned above, purchasing a pound of weed can be pretty challenging, considering US states don’t allow it.

However, there are other measurements you can use to purchase weed for recreational or medical purposes. They include an ounce (28 grams), a quarter (7 grams), and an eighth (3.5 grams). 

What does a pound of weed look like?

Just imagine a pound of weed as the size of a decent sized watermelon. The flowers are numerous and tightly packed. The color will vary depending on the strain. Also, you can notice trichomes covering the buds; however, the thickness and appearance will depend on the strain, curing method, and more. 

How long does a pound of weed last?

A pound of weed will last you several months. However, some factors influence the specific period a pound of weed will last you.

• Occasional smoker – If you consume weed occasionally or infrequently, about once a week, a pound of weed could last you well over a year. That said, you should not buy a full pound at one time because it will lose its potency over time. 
• Daily smoker – This is a person who consumes cannabis regularly and frequently. Let’s say you smoke 2 gram sized  joints each day. A pound will last roughly 7 months. 
• A constant smoker is an individual who is high most of the time. The duration of a pound will be significantly lower lasting anywhere from 2-4 months. For instance, if you smoke 5 gram sized joints a day, a pound would last you about three months. 

Where can you buy a pound of weed wholesale legally

Purchasing a pound of weed can be challenging, considering all weed states have a legal amount to possess at any given time. However, as a medical patient, you can purchase up to two months of supply, depending on where you live.