Marijuana legalization in 2025 continues to vary across the United States, with some states allowing recreational use, others permitting medical cannabis only, and a small number maintaining full prohibition. This page outlines which states currently have legal marijuana, how laws differ by use type, and what the legal landscape looks like this year. 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 is marijuana’s legal 2025
1. Recreational Use – Legal in 24 States + D.C.
Adults 21+ can possess and use cannabis.
States:
- West: Alaska, California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington
- Midwest: Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio
- Northeast: Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont
- South: Virginia
- Southwest: Arizona, New Mexico
Also Legal in: Washington D.C., Guam
2. Medical Use Only – Legal in 14 States
Cannabis allowed for qualifying medical conditions.
States:
- Arkansas
- Delaware (pending recreational sales rollout)
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Kentucky (limited program)
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- New Hampshire
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Utah
- West Virginia
3. Decriminalized Only – No Legal Market
Possession is not fully legal but may result in a fine, not jail.
Examples:
- North Carolina
- Nebraska
- Mississippi (small amounts)
4. Fully Illegal (No Legal Use) – 4 States
All cannabis use remains prohibited.
States:
- Idaho
- Kansas
- South Carolina
- Wyoming
Trend
Legalization continues to expand, with growing support across all regions. Several prohibition states are considering ballot measures or legislative reforms for 2025 and beyond.
