Weed, also known as marijuana or cannabis, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant. It has been consumed for centuries for both recreational and medicinal purposes. In the United States, weed is legal for medical use in 36 states and for recreational use in 18 states.
However, the legal status, consumption patterns, and attitudes towards weed vary widely across different regions and cities. In this article, we will explore which city in Florida is smoking more weed than anywhere else in the state, and what are the possible reasons and implications behind this trend.
The City with the Highest Weed Consumption in Florida
According to a report by Verilife, a national cannabis dispensary company, the city with the highest weed consumption in Florida is Orlando. The report, which was based on a survey of over 5,000 cannabis consumers across the country, found that Orlando residents consume an average of 29.3 grams of weed per person per year.
This is more than double the national average of 14.1 grams, and more than any other city in Florida. The report also ranked Orlando as the fourth highest weed-consuming city in the United States, behind only San Francisco, New York, and Boston.
Why Orlando Smokes More Weed Than Anywhere Else in Florida
There are several possible factors that could explain why Orlando smokes more weed than anywhere else in Florida. Some of these are:
Tourism: Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting over 75 million visitors in 2019. Many of these tourists may be looking for a way to relax and enjoy their vacation, and weed could be one of their options. Moreover, some of these tourists may come from states or countries where weed is legal or more accessible, and may bring their own supply or purchase it from local dealers or dispensaries.
Culture: Orlando is known for its vibrant and diverse culture, which includes a large Hispanic and LGBTQ+ population, as well as a thriving arts and entertainment scene. These groups may have more liberal and tolerant views on weed, and may use it for social, creative, or therapeutic reasons. Additionally, Orlando is home to several colleges and universities, such as the University of Central Florida and Full Sail University, which may have a significant student population that consumes weed for recreational or academic purposes.
Availability: Orlando has a relatively high availability of weed, both legally and illegally. Florida legalized medical marijuana in 2016, and as of 2020, there were 22 medical marijuana dispensaries in Orlando, more than any other city in the state. Furthermore, Orlando has a large black market for weed, which is fueled by the demand from tourists and locals, as well as the proximity to major highways and airports that facilitate the transportation and distribution of the drug.
Conclusion
Orlando is the city in Florida that smokes more weed than anywhere else in the state, according to a report by Verilife. Orlando residents consume an average of 29.3 grams of weed per person per year, which is more than double the national average and more than any other city in Florida.
The reasons for this high weed consumption may include tourism, culture, and availability. However, this trend may also have some negative consequences, such as health risks, legal issues, and social stigma. Therefore, it is important for Orlando residents and visitors to be aware of the potential benefits and harms of weed, and to use it responsibly and legally.