What Age Group Uses Cannabis the Most? 7 Surprising Trends for 2025

Are you interested in understanding how cannabis use patterns vary across different age groups? The latest survey shows adults aged 18–25 have the highest cannabis use rate at around 2.0%. This blog will clearly explain, “What age group uses cannabis the most?” and share surprising trends for 2025.

Read on to get informed.

Prevalence of Cannabis Use by Age Group

Cannabis use varies widely across different age brackets, with clear patterns emerging in recent studies. Young adults aged 18–25 show the highest rates of use, while older groups show a steady drop in cannabis consumption.

Highest usage among 18–25-year-olds

Young adults aged 18-25 use cannabis more frequently than any other group in the United States. Recent studies reveal that roughly 19.8% of people within this range report cannabis use within the past month.

Over a lifetime, rates jump even higher—52.4% have experimented with cannabis at least once. According to Barney’s Farm seed bank, college tends to be a common period for trying cannabis, as social gatherings frequently lead to experimentation.

The data clearly shows that young adults are the primary cannabis users, with over half having tried it at least once.

Mental health plays a major role in cannabis use for young adults. Many in this age bracket turn to cannabis to deal with stress, anxiety, and emotional struggles. Public health specialists express concern about this because frequent use during young adulthood—while the brain still develops—might cause problems in later years.

Young women often mention different motives than men, using cannabis mostly to relax and less frequently for reasons linked to social image.

Decline in use among 26–34-year-olds

Cannabis use peaks sharply among people aged 18-25—but rates noticeably decline for adults slightly older. Recent surveys reveal just 0.7% of those aged 26-49 use only cannabis, which is far lower than younger adults.

Specifically, monthly cannabis consumption is significantly reduced among adults between 26 and 34 years old compared to the younger crowd. This shift might come as a surprise—especially for women who might assume cannabis habits remain consistent into adulthood.

Yet, despite less frequent overall use, adults aged 26-34 display a curious trend. Around 42.2% of current cannabis users in this group fall into what’s considered heavy usage. So, fewer people in their late twenties and early thirties use cannabis, but those who do often engage more intensely.

Several reasons could cause this sharp drop-off, including increased work responsibilities, family commitments, or new health concerns developing past the age of 25. Social habits also change after college—friend circles shift, and peer pressure becomes less common—possibly leading many adults to cut back casual cannabis use.

Lower prevalence in individuals aged 35 and older

Adults over 35 use cannabis far less often than younger folks. Recent data shows just 0.6% of adults aged 50 and older report using only cannabis. Sure, people between 35 and 49 have picked up their cannabis use lately—but, even with recent growth, they’re nowhere near the rates of younger adults between 18 and 34.

While researching topics for my women’s health podcast, this pattern stood out—older adults simply don’t use as much. In the 50 to 64 age group, cannabis use has risen to 12.82%, higher than before, but still way below younger groups.

This trend appears in both recreational and medical categories, even though middle-aged adults show slightly more openness to health-focused cannabis products.

Cannabis Use Among Adolescents

Teen cannabis use has dropped since 2020, despite wider adult access to legal products. Studies show strong links between early marijuana use and mental health issues like anxiety and depression in young people.

Trends in cannabis use among teens (12–17 years old)

Cannabis use among American teens has dropped notably, defying expectations. In 2023, recent numbers show only 17% of adolescents tried marijuana—in 2013, that figure was at 23%.

This sharp decrease is unusual, especially since cannabis use among adults is rising. The COVID-19 pandemic played a big part in this change. With closed schools, canceled events, and increased parent oversight, teens faced fewer social pressures.

Lockdowns significantly cut down opportunities for teenagers to experiment or easily get marijuana.

The decline in adolescent cannabis use during a time of increased legalization challenges many of our assumptions about youth substance use patterns.

Mental health issues also factor into this declining trend. Teenagers now have greater awareness about marijuana’s potential harm to brain development. Campaigns in public health frequently highlight clear connections between early cannabis use and mental health disorders.

Such education efforts appear successful, helping many adolescents make informed choices, even as cannabis acceptance becomes common in adult communities. Health experts describe this decrease as encouraging news for youth behavioral wellness.

Factors influencing adolescent cannabis use

Teen cannabis use happens for several main reasons. A large research study, with data from 416,417 teen surveys, helps clarify what pushes teens to try or regularly use marijuana:

1. Friends strongly influence teenage marijuana use. If teens hang around peers who smoke weed, they’re very likely to follow along—a pattern easily noticed in local youth groups.
2. Teens often see marijuana as harmless. This low sense of danger about cannabis reduces barriers against trying it out.
3. Alcohol and tobacco use closely connect to marijuana use. Teens who already smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol usually have a higher chance of using pot too.
4. Family structure and parenting practices affect teen drug choices. Homes lacking supervision or clear rules around drug use increase risks substantially.
5. Mental health struggles, like anxiety or depression, often lead teens toward cannabis. They sometimes use marijuana to manage their emotional pain.
6. Movies, music, and social media frequently portray marijuana as normal and fun. This pop-culture viewpoint can strongly encourage teenagers to believe cannabis is safe and acceptable.
7. Teens find cannabis more accessible in communities where adults frequently use it too. Areas with widespread adult marijuana consumption often report increased teen usage.
8. Students facing academic problems may turn to weed as an escape. Bad grades and difficulties at school push some teens to look for relief in cannabis use.
9. Genetic predisposition also plays a role. Teens from families with histories of addiction have higher chances of becoming dependent on marijuana.
10. Stress from home life, academics, or social conflicts pushes teens toward marijuana. They use cannabis as a way to temporarily avoid life’s pressures.

Young Adults as the Primary Users

Young adults aged 18-25 remain the top cannabis users across all age groups in America. College campuses and social scenes fuel this trend, with many young adults using cannabis at parties or to cope with stress.

Frequency of use in the 18–25 age group

Adults aged 18-25 have the highest cannabis use rates among all age groups. Research shows 52.4% of this demographic have tried marijuana at least once in their lifetime—that’s more than half.

Daily use is also steadily rising, with many young adults now using cannabis 20 or more days each month. I witnessed this firsthand at a local health clinic, where college-age patients often openly shared their regular marijuana use habits.

Typically, they rely on cannabis both socially and as a way to handle everyday stress. Rising cannabis use coincides with increased acceptance, especially in states where recreational consumption is legal.

Doctors closely monitor these trends because brain growth continues into the mid-twenties, prompting questions about potential long-term consequences from frequent marijuana use.

Social and cultural factors driving use in this age group

Social circles strongly influence cannabis use among adults aged 18-25. Even after high school ends, peer influence remains powerful—young adults often try cannabis at social events or parties.

College campuses typically offer a relaxed view of marijuana, making its use appear acceptable and common. Young people frequently perceive cannabis as safer than alcohol, though risks still exist.

Young adults aged 19-21 show concerning patterns of using cannabis alongside alcohol and nicotine, often as a way to manage anxiety and depression.

Young adults experience unique stresses—including job demands, school pressure, and relationship challenges. For many people in this age group, cannabis becomes a coping method instead of reaching out for professional mental health support.

The increasing number of legal markets also boosts cannabis appeal, offering flavored vapes, gummies, chocolates, and other edible varieties attractive to younger users. Social media promotes cannabis culture too, framing it as a fun lifestyle rather than a simple drug choice.

Cannabis use among middle-aged adults, though, looks quite different.

Middle-Aged Adults and Cannabis Use

Middle-aged adults show new trends in cannabis use that might shock you. Many in the 26-44 age group now turn to cannabis for pain relief and stress control rather than just fun.

Patterns of use in the 26–44 age group

Adults between 26 and 44 have distinct cannabis habits, different from younger people. Many adults in this age group use cannabis mainly for health reasons instead of social enjoyment.

As a mom, I’ve tried CBD oil myself to ease chronic back pain. I’ve noticed many women around my age use cannabis products to help with sleep problems or reduce stress. Studies suggest adults in their 30s and early 40s generally use cannabis more safely than younger adults.

The growing popularity of cannamom culture highlights how comfortable parents have become using cannabis as a natural remedy.

Women in this demographic often pick cannabis options low in THC to avoid strong mental effects.

Surveys also show these adults generally support medical marijuana more than recreational use. Many have steady jobs and health insurance plans, and they tend to connect with healthcare providers before using cannabis.

Cannabis businesses have picked up on this preference, creating products specifically for busy adults who juggle careers and parenting responsibilities. Unlike younger groups who often use cannabis for socializing, adults from 26 to 44 commonly rely on it to handle focused health needs.

Growing interest in medical cannabis among this demographic

Middle-aged folks are quickly warming up to medical cannabis. In fact, over 75% now consider medical cannabis an acceptable choice—a major shift in attitudes. Many in this group now turn to cannabis to ease pain, improve sleep, and handle stress.

Legal changes across various states have sparked curiosity about possible health advantages.

I started using medical cannabis for my chronic back pain after my doctor suggested it. The relief was amazing compared to the pills I took for years, shares Maria, 42, a marketing executive.

Women, especially, tend to choose cannabis products with lower levels of THC. They usually prefer products that deliver health benefits without strong, mind-altering effects. Cannabis companies have noticed this preference, creating more products specifically suited to health-conscious users.

Interest in medical cannabis among middle-aged people continues to rise as more states adopt friendlier drug laws, and doctors grow more comfortable discussing cannabis treatments.

Cannabis Use Among Seniors

Seniors over 65 show the fastest growth in cannabis use of any age group in America. Many older adults turn to marijuana for pain relief, sleep issues, and other health problems that come with aging.

Increasing cannabis use in individuals aged 65 and older

Older Americans now use cannabis more than ever before. In 2021, around 5% of adults above 65, and nearly 10% between the ages of 60 and 64, were monthly marijuana users. That’s a significant shift from previous years.

Most notably, older adults with diabetes showed a remarkable increase—up by 180%—in cannabis consumption. Many seniors turn to marijuana for medical purposes rather than just recreation.

They often want relief from common age-related issues, like chronic pain, sleep troubles, and other recurring health problems.

This rising trend is closely linked to medical cannabis legalization across more states. Women over 60 often consider cannabis as an alternative, especially after traditional medicines trigger unpleasant side effects.

The cannabis market is responding to this growing demand. Companies now offer specialized products aimed at older users, including lower-dose options, non-smoking alternatives, and items designed specifically for pain relief without strong psychoactive effects.

Even healthcare providers must now tackle new concerns—figuring out how cannabis might interact with medications seniors commonly use.

Medical reasons driving use in older populations

Seniors often choose cannabis to ease pain, with 63% of adults over 50 using it for chronic aches and discomfort. Trouble sleeping also motivates many to try cannabis—around 68% rely on it for better nighttime rest.

But relaxation tops the list, as a striking 81% of older adults say stress relief is their main reason for using cannabis products. Senior cannabis use jumped significantly in recent years—from just 12% in 2021 to 21% according to current surveys.

Many seniors see cannabis as a safer option than prescription medications due to fewer side effects and lower chances of addiction. Medical marijuana can also help with specific conditions like glaucoma, arthritis pain, and cancer-treatment symptoms.

Healthcare providers now use AI tools to monitor how well specific cannabis strains help older patients with different health conditions. Interestingly, women over 65 often find relief with lower THC doses compared to men of the same age.

Senior cannabis use grows mostly in states where medical marijuana is legal. To protect their lungs, seniors usually prefer alternatives that don’t require smoking, like topical creams, oils, or edible forms.

Gender Differences in Cannabis Use Across Age Groups

Men use cannabis more often than women across all age groups, but this gap shrinks among younger adults. Recent surveys show women ages 18-25 are catching up to their male peers in cannabis use rates, with many citing stress relief as their main reason.

Usage trends among men vs. women

A major shift happened in the cannabis market during 2023—with women now driving growth in the industry. Female consumers, for the very first time, have overtaken men in total cannabis use.

This marks a huge turning point in consumer behavior patterns. Still, men continue to hold higher regular-use rates—11% compared to women’s 8%. The difference exists across many age groups, yet varies depending on location and social influences.

Social changes and health-related factors largely influence this new trend in cannabis consumption. Many women first try cannabis to tackle specific health concerns, rather than just for fun.

Common reasons include easing pain, improving sleep quality, and helping with mental health struggles. With more states legalizing cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes, social stigma around marijuana use is quickly fading for everyone.

Yet, women appear to be adjusting to this new acceptance faster than anyone had anticipated.

Age-specific variations in gendered cannabis use

Men and women differ clearly in cannabis use across various age groups. Young adults aged 18 to 25 hold the highest rates overall, but women in this range use cannabis less than men.

By age 21 and older, the usage gap shrinks significantly—women’s rates reach around 37 percent—but they’re often driven by health rather than recreation. Unlike men who typically choose cannabis for social reasons, many women turn to it for relief from pain, better sleep, or emotional balance.

Women in their 30s and 40s are becoming more curious about medical cannabis, especially in states where marijuana is legal. Their use usually targets specific health issues rather than casual enjoyment.

I’ve seen this shift myself while studying behavioral health patterns—more women now treat cannabis as a wellness aid instead of a purely recreational choice. Public opinion surveys also reflect this changing attitude, pointing to rising acceptance of cannabis’s health-related benefits.

Such changes mark a significant departure from earlier decades, a time when women often faced stronger stigma about cannabis use.

Regional and Socioeconomic Factors

Where you live plays a big role in how much cannabis you use. Your income and education level also affect your chances of trying or using marijuana often.

Geographic trends in cannabis use by age group

Western states, especially California and Colorado, have the highest cannabis use rates across all age groups. Young adults aged 18-34 in these states consume cannabis more regularly than their peers elsewhere.

This trend relates directly to their longer history of marijuana legalization. Meanwhile, newer states—like Delaware and Minnesota—are quickly catching up, particularly with younger users.

Local laws clearly shape who chooses cannabis and how frequently they do it.

States with medical cannabis programs show unique patterns too. Middle-aged adults, between 35 and 54 years old, typically choose cannabis for health needs rather than recreation. The cannabis market expands quickest in places allowing both medical and recreational uses.

Because of this, cannabis habits vary widely around the country—each age group responding differently based on local laws, traditions, and cultural views.

Impact of income and education on usage patterns

Income and education strongly affect cannabis use habits. People earning less than $24,000 per year have the highest usage—around 16%. But among folks holding advanced degrees, regular cannabis use sharply drops to only 5%.

Clearly, cannabis consumption goes down as education and income go up. Social pressures, like money worries, might lead lower-income groups to turn to cannabis more frequently. Medical care access differs widely by income level as well—for poorer groups, cannabis may be an affordable way to manage health conditions they can’t afford to treat through traditional medical channels.

Education also creates clear differences in how and why people use cannabis. College graduates often follow different use patterns than folks with only a high school education—or less.

Many educated women I’ve talked to say they typically use cannabis in moderation, usually focusing on specific purposes instead of regular casual use. The cannabis industry is catching onto these patterns, too.

Companies now create marketing strategies aimed at consumers with different income and educational backgrounds, offering products and prices that fit their unique situations.

Implications of Cannabis Use by Age

Different age groups face unique health risks from cannabis use. Young users may see impacts on brain growth, while older adults must watch for drug interactions with their meds.

Health considerations for different age groups

Cannabis impacts people differently, depending on age and other factors. Younger brains can bounce back quickly, thanks to their flexibility—but this doesn’t make cannabis use safe.

Research shows teenagers who use cannabis early can experience significant drops in IQ scores. Early exposure also raises the chances they’ll struggle with addiction later. For adolescents, cannabis can interfere with school performance and emotional maturity.

Pregnant women should also be careful, as studies suggest cannabis might harm a developing fetus.

Older adults experience cannabis differently too. Seniors often turn to cannabis to manage chronic pain, but mixing it with other medicines can cause unexpected problems. THC—the active ingredient in cannabis—can also aggravate mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.

Even body weight matters, since cannabis has varying effects on people who are underweight, average, or obese. These patterns are closely observed by healthcare providers, especially as more states move forward with legalizing medical and recreational marijuana.

Social and economic impacts

Using cannabis affects our society in ways beyond basic health impacts. Young adults between ages 19 to 30 show the highest rates of cannabis consumption, creating challenges in job markets and schools.

This pattern ripples outward, influencing the economy in subtle, yet important ways. Around my own neighborhood, I’ve seen local businesses putting extra resources into drug testing measures and workplace safety efforts.

Mental health services face growing pressures too—people dealing with mental health struggles often use cannabis more frequently. This puts stress on healthcare budgets, leading to higher bills for all of us.

In areas where cannabis is legal, money moves quite differently. Tax income from cannabis sales is helpful for funding public projects—but increased use also means growing expenses for treatment programs.

Women especially face higher burdens as caregivers if family members struggle with cannabis use. Rising cannabis consumption levels among young adults change social patterns as well—like where they hang out, how they spend their weekends, and even the types of stores and restaurants popping up in college towns.

These shifts reach into daily life, shaping neighborhoods and local economies, whether someone chooses cannabis or stays away from it completely.

How Will Cannabis Use Across Age Demographics Shift in 2025?

Cannabis use is going to look very different by 2025—and the market could hit around $45 billion. Younger adults are leading this growth, with Gen Z and Millennials already responsible for nearly 63% of today’s cannabis sales.

At the same time, we’ll likely see more senior citizens turning to cannabis, especially to manage pain and treat health conditions. People in their middle years will probably lean into products that offer clear, specific health benefits.

Younger adults in their late twenties and early thirties may actually cut back a bit, busy building careers and starting families. The biggest shift will focus on how people enjoy cannabis.

Rather than smoking, more folks will choose edibles or oils. Public support is also rising, and polls indicate favorable views across all generations, possibly prompting more states to legalize soon.

These changes will arise from several factors. Medical cannabis use is expected to grow quickly, partly because doctors and healthcare providers are beginning to feel more comfortable recommending cannabis treatments.

Mental health worries, though, could discourage some groups from using cannabis as much. Differences across regions will stay clear, with higher usage in states where marijuana laws allow legal and recreational use.

Cannabis use among women is likely to grow faster than men’s across all age brackets too, driven partly by new cannabis products developed specifically for women. Differences in education and income will continue to impact who uses cannabis and how frequently they do so.

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