Recreational marijuana laws allow adults to legally possess and use cannabis without a medical card, but legalization varies widely across the United States. This page outlines which states have legalized recreational marijuana, how adult-use laws differ by region, and what rules commonly apply in legal states. For a complete reference covering 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 marijuanas legalized recreational
As of June 2025, recreational marijuana is legal in 24 states in the United States, as well as Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Washington, D.C. Below is a structured summary by region:
West
- Legal States: California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado
- Key Notes: Early adopters; well-established markets; allow 1 oz+ possession; home cultivation often permitted.
Midwest
- Legal States: Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, Ohio
- Key Notes: Rapid growth in recent years; retail sales active or launching (Ohio in 2024–2025).
Northeast
- Legal States: Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maryland, Delaware
- Key Notes: Progressive reform; 1–2.5 oz possession limits; most allow limited home grow.
South
- Legal States: Virginia
- Key Notes: Legal for possession and home cultivation; no retail sales yet.
Territories & District
- Washington D.C.: Legal possession and home grow; no regulated sales.
- Guam & Northern Mariana Islands: Recreational use legal; regulated sales underway or pending.
Federal Status
- Marijuana remains illegal federally.
- Affects banking, interstate commerce, and travel.
Common Rules Across Legal States:
- Age limit: 21+
- Possession: 1–2.5 oz typically
- Sales: Licensed dispensaries
- Home grow: Allowed in most states, with plant limits
This list is current as of mid-2025. Always check individual state laws for specific rules and updates.
