Surprising Cannabis Use Trends in the U.S. 2024: Adult Rise, Teen Decline, and More

The Evolving Cannabis Use Trends in the U.S.

Cannabis use trends in the U.S. are changing in unexpected ways, with more adults using it than ever before, and teens showing a decline in use. As cannabis gains popularity across generations, new data is revealing surprising patterns in adult cannabis use increase, a steady decline in teen cannabis use, and a significant rise in senior cannabis consumption. What’s behind these shifts, and what does it mean for the future of cannabis in the U.S.?

Adult Cannabis Use on the Rise, Teen Use Declining

One of the most striking cannabis use trends in the U.S. is the surge among adults, particularly those aged 19 to 50. Around 42% of adults aged 19 to 30 and 29% of those aged 35 to 50 report using cannabis in the past year. Meanwhile, teens have shown a different trend—usage rates have dropped from 23% in 2011 to under 16% in 2021. Researchers like Dr. Ryan Vandrey of Johns Hopkins Medicine speculate that strict age restrictions at dispensaries are contributing to the teen cannabis use decline.

Senior Cannabis Consumption Soars

Seniors, too, are joining the cannabis consumption trend, with usage rates climbing significantly over the last two decades. In 2007, less than 1% of adults over 65 reported cannabis use in the past year. By 2022, that number surged to more than 8%, making seniors one of the fastest-growing demographics in the cannabis industry. This senior cannabis consumption boom is largely attributed to pain management, sleep aid, and growing acceptance of alternative wellness options.

For more insights on senior cannabis use, check out AARP’s coverage on cannabis for older adults.

The Gender Gap in Cannabis Use is Closing

For years, men reported higher cannabis use than women, but recent surveys show that women are rapidly catching up. Among adults aged 19 to 30, more women now report using cannabis than men. Experts suggest that cannabis use trends are increasingly driven by women seeking relief from chronic pain and anxiety, common conditions that cannabis may help alleviate. The shrinking cannabis gender gap is also likely due to reduced stigma, encouraging more women to be open about their usage.

Cannabis in Daily Life: Outpacing Alcohol

Daily cannabis use is quickly becoming a norm in the U.S., with approximately 18 million people reporting daily or near-daily use, surpassing daily alcohol consumption, which stands at just under 15 million. This shift underscores how ingrained cannabis has become in American life, especially as an alternative to alcohol for relaxation or sleep. Researchers emphasize, however, the need to understand the long-term effects of daily cannabis vs. alcohol use, especially with the high-potency products available today.

Edibles and Vapes Are on the Rise

The popularity of edibles and vapes has surged in recent years, with many users opting for these discreet, smokeless options. Both forms of consumption offer a controlled and, for some, more enjoyable experience. However, while vapes eliminate some risks associated with smoking, they carry their own health considerations. As edibles and vapes gain popularity, consumers are favoring these options for convenience and standardized dosing.

Shifting Public Perceptions Drive Cannabis Use

Public attitudes toward cannabis have softened significantly, with over two-thirds of Americans supporting some form of legalization. Many see it as less harmful than previously believed, despite the stronger potency of today’s products. Researchers caution, however, that while the adult cannabis use increase aligns with changing perceptions, there’s still a need for careful use, especially with high-THC products.

New Ballot Initiatives Could Shift the Landscape Further

This week, voters in Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Florida will decide on cannabis legalization measures. The outcome of these votes could bring the total number of U.S. states with legalized cannabis to over 30, continuing the upward trend in cannabis use trends in the U.S. Dr. Traci Toomey, director of the University of Minnesota School of Public Health Cannabis Research Center, emphasizes that early legalization states set a strong example by enforcing strict age restrictions, helping to curb youth access.

Check out NORML’s state-by-state guide for the latest on cannabis laws.

Conclusion: What These Trends Mean for the Future of Cannabis in America

From the rise in adult cannabis use to the decline in teen use, the shifting landscape of cannabis in the U.S. reveals how rapidly perceptions and habits are changing. As cannabis finds a place in daily life for more Americans, researchers and policymakers are working to understand its impacts across age groups. With fresh legalization initiatives on the horizon, these trends highlight a society increasingly comfortable with cannabis and eager to explore its benefits in new ways.

FAQs

Why is teen cannabis use declining?
Strict age regulations at dispensaries and shifting priorities among teens have led to a decline in use among this age group.

Why are more seniors trying cannabis?
Many seniors are turning to cannabis for pain management, sleep issues, and other health concerns, as well as the reduced stigma surrounding it.

Is cannabis really replacing alcohol as a daily use choice?
In many cases, yes. Recent data shows that daily cannabis use now surpasses daily alcohol consumption, especially among younger adults.