Cannabis Sales Surge: Maryland Leads the Pack in 2024

The cannabis industry has witnessed remarkable growth and evolution in recent years, with states across the nation legalizing and expanding their cannabis markets. As we approach the midway point of 2024, some states have emerged as clear winners in cannabis sales, while others face significant challenges. This article will delve into the best and worst performing states for cannabis sales in 2024, highlighting the key factors driving their success or struggles.



Maryland, the newest state to join the cannabis market, has taken the industry by storm. With a year-to-date (YTD) increase of 57.8% in cannabis sales, totaling $942.2 million, Maryland has cemented its place as a key emerging state in the cannabis industry. The state's impressive performance can be attributed to a combination of regulatory changes and market dynamics. The launch of adult-use sales in July 2023 expanded Maryland's customer base, while the presence of multi-state operators (MSOs) like Green Thumb Industries, Curaleaf Holdings, and Trulieve Cannabis Corp. has supported the industry's growth through investment and operational expertise.



Ohio and New Jersey have also experienced notable growth in their cannabis markets. Ohio's medical-only market has seen a 30.9% YTD increase, reaching $522.6 million in sales, while New Jersey's adult-use market has grown by 24.6% YTD, amounting to $805.7 million. The presence of MSOs in both states, such as Green Thumb Industries, Curaleaf Holdings, and Trulieve Cannabis Corp., has contributed to their market expansion. However, regulatory environments and consumer preferences in Ohio and New Jersey differ, leading to unique market dynamics and sales performance.



In contrast, some established cannabis markets are grappling with significant downturns. Arizona, Colorado, and California, which have long been leaders in the cannabis industry, have experienced declines in their YTD sales. Arizona saw a 12.9% decrease in YTD sales, generating $989.8 million, while Colorado reported a 9.5% drop, totaling $1.18 billion. Even California, the leader in total sales with $4.16 billion YTD, experienced a 3.6% decline. These challenges faced by long-established markets underscore the importance of adaptability and innovation in the cannabis industry.



Monthly shifts in cannabis sales provide valuable insights into shorter-term momentum. According to BDSA, Missouri leads recent growth with a 4.9% month-over-month (MoM) increase, totaling $123.3 million. Arizona, despite its YTD struggles, achieved a 4.4% MoM rise to $93.1 million. Conversely, Michigan recorded the steepest monthly decline, dropping 7.7% to $246.3 million, followed by New York with a 7.3% decrease, ending at $11.1 million.



In conclusion, the cannabis industry in 2024 is marked by a mix of rapid growth and significant challenges. Maryland's impressive performance highlights the potential for new markets to thrive, while established markets like Arizona, Colorado, and California face headwinds. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, investors and market participants must stay informed about the unique dynamics and trends shaping each state's cannabis market. By understanding the factors driving success and identifying potential challenges, investors can make more informed decisions and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the diverse cannabis landscape.