Colorado is one of the first states in the U.S. to legalize the use and possession of recreational cannabis, also known as ganja, marijuana, or weed. Since 2014, the state has seen a booming industry of cannabis retail, cultivation, and consumption. But which city in Colorado is smoking more ganja than anywhere else in the state?
Cannabis Use in Colorado: The Statistics
According to the data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, cannabis use in Colorado varies by age, gender, and region. The most recent survey from 2020 shows that:
About 18% of adults aged 18 and older reported using cannabis in the past 30 days, which is higher than the national average of 13%.
Among adults who used cannabis in the past 30 days, 40% reported using it daily or near-daily, and 28% reported using it only once or twice.
Men were more likely than women to use cannabis in the past 30 days (21% vs. 15%).
The highest rates of cannabis use in the past 30 days were found in the Denver Metro region (22%), followed by the Northwest region (20%), and the Southwest region (19%).
The lowest rates of cannabis use in the past 30 days were found in the Northeast region (11%), followed by the Southeast region (13%), and the Central region (15%).
The City with the Highest Cannabis Consumption: Denver
Based on the regional data, it is not surprising that the city with the highest cannabis consumption in Colorado is Denver, the capital and the most populous city of the state. Denver is located in the Denver Metro region, which has the highest rate of cannabis use in the past 30 days among all regions.
Denver is also home to the largest number of cannabis retail stores, dispensaries, and cultivation facilities in the state. According to the data from the Colorado Department of Revenue, Denver accounted for 36% of the total retail cannabis sales in the state in 2021, followed by Boulder (9%), and Adams (8%).
Denver is also known for its cannabis culture and events, such as the annual 4/20 rally, the Cannabis Cup, and the High Times Magazine. Denver has also been ranked as one of the best cities for cannabis lovers by various publications, such as Forbes, Thrillist, and Leafly.
Why Denver Smokes More Ganja Than Anywhere Else in the State
There are many possible reasons why Denver smokes more ganja than anywhere else in the state, such as:
The availability and accessibility of cannabis products and services in the city, which offer a wide range of choices and prices for consumers.
The social acceptance and tolerance of cannabis use in the city, which reduce the stigma and barriers for users.
The diversity and creativity of the cannabis community in the city, which foster a sense of belonging and identity for users.
The health and wellness benefits of cannabis use for some users, such as relieving pain, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and other medical conditions.
The recreational and entertainment value of cannabis use for some users, such as enhancing mood, creativity, sensory perception, and enjoyment of activities.
Conclusion
Colorado is one of the leading states in the U.S. in terms of cannabis legalization, industry, and consumption. Among all the cities in Colorado, Denver is the one that smokes more ganja than anywhere else in the state, due to various factors such as availability, acceptance, diversity, health, and recreation. Denver is also a hotspot for cannabis culture and events, attracting both locals and tourists who want to experience the cannabis lifestyle. Denver is indeed the ganja capital of Colorado, and perhaps the nation.