Cannabis has come a long way from its days of taboo. Today, it’s woven into everyday life for millions of people in the U.S., yet there’s still curiosity—and sometimes confusion—about who’s actually using it. From young adults to older generations, the demographics of cannabis users tell a fascinating story about how perceptions are shifting and how cannabis is becoming part of modern culture.

Let’s dig into the numbers and see who’s embracing cannabis and why.

Who’s Using Cannabis?

The Big Picture

Cannabis isn’t as niche as it once was. In 2021, 52.5 million Americans—about 19% of the population—reported using cannabis at least once in the past year. What’s even more surprising? By 2022, more people were using cannabis daily (around 17.7 million) than drinking alcohol daily (14.7 million). That’s a pretty big milestone for a plant that was so misunderstood for decades.

Cannabis by Age


Young Adults (18–25): No surprises here—this age group leads the pack. Nearly 25% of people aged 18–34 said they’d used cannabis in the past month.
Older Adults (35+): The real surprise is how much cannabis use has grown among older adults. Whether it’s for relaxation or wellness, more people in their 40s and 50s are using cannabis than ever before.

Men vs. Women

For a long time, men dominated cannabis use, but times are changing.


Men: Still the majority, but the gap is narrowing.
Women: Young women (ages 19–30) recently surpassed men in usage for the first time. Stress relief and wellness benefits are key reasons women are reaching for cannabis—and they’re spending big, too. In some areas, women outspend men on cannabis products.

Diversity in Cannabis Use


White Americans: Make up about 65% of cannabis users, closely mirroring their share of the overall U.S. population.
Black Americans: Represent around 11% of cannabis users, slightly below their 13% share of the population.
Hispanic and Latino Americans: Account for another 11%, compared to 18% of the overall population.
Asian Americans: Make up about 3% of cannabis users, though they represent nearly 6% of the population.

While cannabis use crosses all racial and ethnic groups, there’s a clear opportunity for the industry to better reflect and connect with diverse communities.

Regional Trends

Where you live can influence how you consume cannabis:


Legal States: If you’re in a state where cannabis is recreationally legal, you’re far more likely to use it. In these states, 11% of people say they’ve tried edibles in the past year, compared to just 4% in non-legal states.
Urban vs. Rural: Unsurprisingly, urban areas see higher cannabis use than rural regions. Access and cultural acceptance are big factors here.

Changing Perceptions and Growing Acceptance

The numbers show more than just trends—they reflect a shift in how cannabis is viewed. A recent survey revealed that 88% of U.S. adults now support some form of cannabis legalization, whether for medical or recreational use.

And it’s not just about legalization—it’s about normalization. Cannabis is becoming part of wellness routines, social settings, and even creative work. It’s no longer just about getting high; for many, it’s about enhancing everyday life.

What This Means for the Future

The cannabis industry is still growing, and understanding these demographics is key to shaping its future. From designing products that resonate with women to connecting with older adults looking for wellness solutions, the potential is enormous.

By breaking stereotypes and embracing diversity, cannabis can continue its journey from a misunderstood plant to a celebrated part of modern living.

So, whether you’re a longtime advocate or just curious, the story of cannabis today is one of growth, acceptance, and a whole lot of potential.

Cannabis isn’t just a trend—it’s a cultural shift. And these numbers prove that it’s here to stay.