Throughout history, humans have utilized cannabis for a variety of purposes, including medicinal, religion, recreation, and culture. However, there is some discussion about it because it is prohibited in many locations and may pose health hazards, social problems, and addictive properties.
In the United States, cannabis laws vary by state. Some places still refuse it, while others have made it less of a problem or even totally acceptable.
As of 2024, 18 states in the United States allow adults to use cannabis recreationally. People there can have it, use it, and purchase it from specific stores. New Mexico is one of these states, and they approved recreational cannabis in June 2021, becoming the 17th state to do so.
Since then, the city of Sunland Park in New Mexico has experienced a significant increase in the number of persons seeking cannabis. It appears that they use more than any other place in the state.
About Sunland Park’s Weed Consumption Rate
Sunland Park, a small city in southern New Mexico, has approximately 17,000 residents. It is near the border between Texas and Mexico. Sunland Park Cannabis, one of the largest recreational cannabis retailers in the state, opened in April 2022.
This dispensary sells cannabis goods such as flowers, edibles, concentrates, and vapes. Customers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid ID. Visitors include not only locals but also those from nearby Texas, where recreational cannabis is still prohibited.
According to the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Sunland Park Cannabis sold approximately $4 million of cannabis products in November 2023. It was the state’s second-highest-selling dispensary, trailing only Albuquerque, which is substantially larger.
Sunland Park Cannabis claimed more than 100,000 consumers that month, more than any other dispensary in the state. Miguel Lopez, the owner, expressed amazement at the company’s success and thankfulness for offering a legal alternative for people to consume cannabis.
Lopez employs more than 50 individuals, the majority of whom are from the local community, and pays state and city taxes. He intends to expand the business and open additional outlets.
While Sunland Park Cannabis was the first, the city now has at least two more dispensaries, with more anticipated to launch. Sunland Park sees the cannabis sector as a source of income and economic growth. It uses some of the cannabis tax revenue to finance public safety, education, and infrastructure projects.
Other US States with Higher Weed Smoking Rates
Sunland Park is not the only city in New Mexico where marijuana use has increased. According to Yahoo Finance, in 2023, New Mexico was the fourth-highest state in the United States in terms of cannabis use per capita. Only Vermont, Oregon, and Colorado had more.
The analysis estimated that in 2023, New Mexicans would consume around 25.5 metric tons of cannabis or approximately 11.6 grams per person.
It also estimated that the cannabis market in New Mexico would grow by 40% in 2024, reaching $375 million in sales. According to the research, this development is due to increased demand from residents and tourists, as well as affordable pricing while maintaining good quality.
Conclusion
More people in Sunland Park, New Mexico, have started consuming cannabis since the large recreational cannabis store opened in April 2022. This is due to the store’s proximity to Texas, diverse product selection, and affordable pricing compared to other states.
Sunland Park Cannabis’ success has led to the creation of more dispensaries in the city, and the local government sees the cannabis industry as a means to generate revenue through taxes while also boosting the economy. This trend is likely to continue in 2024, with New Mexico becoming one of the fastest-growing cannabis markets in the United States.