This guide explains what states have legalized marijuana, including where recreational and medical cannabis use is currently permitted in the United States. Laws continue to evolve at both the state and federal level, making it important to understand how marijuana legality differs by location. For a complete overview of cannabis laws by location, including U.S. states, major cities, and countries worldwide, visit our Cannabis Laws by Location guide.
Table of Contents
What states have legalized marijuana
1. Recreational Marijuana (Adult Use) – Legal in 24 States + D.C.
Adults 21+ can legally purchase and possess marijuana in the following states:
- West Coast: California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska
- Mountain West: Colorado, Nevada, Montana
- Midwest: Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, Ohio
- Northeast: Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island
- South: Virginia, Maryland
- Southwest: Arizona, New Mexico
Washington D.C. also allows recreational use but has no regulated retail market.
2. Medical Marijuana – Legal in 38 States
Permitted for qualifying patients with medical conditions. Key states with only medical (not recreational) legalization include:
- Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, Utah, Oklahoma, Louisiana
Some states only allow low-THC or CBD oil.
3. Decriminalization (Possession Not a Crime)
Many states and cities have decriminalized possession of small amounts, reducing penalties to fines (not jail). Examples:
- Hawaii, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina (among others)
4. Federal Status
- Still illegal federally as a Schedule I controlled substance.
- Federal law enforcement generally defers to state laws unless large-scale trafficking is involved.
5. Trends and Developments
- Legalization ballot initiatives are underway in states like Florida and South Dakota.
- National reform efforts include SAFE Banking Act and federal rescheduling proposals.
- Strong public support: ~70% of Americans favor legalization.
