Illinois Cannabis Market Tops $2 Billion In 2024
February 18, 2025The Illinois cannabis market—counting both adult-use and medical—set new records in 2024, with sales surpassing $2 billion. The figure makes Illinois the third-largest cannabis market in the U.S. behind only California (approximately $4 billion) and Michigan ($3.3 billion). State sales generated roughly $500 million in tax revenue, with 35% going into Illinois’ general fund, according to the state.
Overall, Illinois has 244 dispensaries which saw a 13% rise in the number of cannabis products sold in 2024. The market has doubled in size in just four years. Erin Johnson, the state’s Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer, noted that the price-per-ounce has dropped as cannabis cultivators have ramped up to meet demand. “As additional dispensaries open their doors, that increased competition leads to increased availability of product and better prices for consumers,” said Johnson.
December saw particularly strong sales, setting a record at $176.7 million. Buyers purchased just over $85 million in flower, just under $58 million in vapes, and nearly $24 million in edibles in December. January sales, according to data from Headset, have slipped somewhat, totaling $157 million. While a substantial drop off from December, year-over-year sales for January were only down 0.7%.
Illinois, like many mature adult-use markets, sells leading products from the country’s largest multistate operators. In the flower, vape pens, and pre-rolls categories, Illinois buyers reach for Stiiizy, Rythm (Green Thumb), and Ozone (Ascend Wellness) brands regularly. For edibles, Wyld, Ozone, Select (Curaleaf), and Camino are leading brands.
While still small compared to more popular categories, cannabis beverages sold through dispensary channels are on the upswing in Illinois, growing 42% to $2.25 million in January. As in other states’ dispensary channels, these drinks are frequently high-potency, including offerings from Keef Cola, Uncle Arnie’s, and Journeyman. Among lower-potency beverages, Cann Social Tonics sell well in Illinois, according to Headset.
Outside the dispensary channel, Illinois is also a growing state for hemp-derived THC beverages, sold in liquor and convenience stores. But currently, governor JB Pritzker is making a stand against the hemp-derived sector. “The market is being undermined by the proliferation of the unregulated intoxicating hemp market. Licensed cannabis businesses comply with strict state regulations, pay significant taxes, and undergo rigorous product testing,” he said. “This unchecked market not only undercuts legal operators but also puts consumers at risk by flooding the industry with untested, potentially unsafe products.”
Despite the opposition from the governor’s office, the hemp-derived industry is charging forward in Illinois. In January, multistate cannabis player Green Thumb Industries partnered with Chicago music venue the Salt Shed to open a dedicated shop within the venue for hemp-derived THC products. RISE at Salt Shed features products from the Beboe and Senorita brands, among others. “We are excited to bring our premier cannabis brand together with such an esteemed Chicago music venue as we look to the future of on-site experiences,” said Ben Kovler, chairman, founder, and CEO of Green Thumb.—Shane English
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