New Jersey Cannabis: The Garden State Goes Green

As of 2024, New Jersey has more than 130 licensed cannabis dispensaries operating across the state. This includes a mix of recreational and medicinal dispensaries, with at least one dispensary in 20 of the state's 21 counties. The number of dispensaries has grown significantly, especially since the state legalized adult-use recreational cannabis in 2022.

New Jersey: A Pathway of Revolution and Cannabis Innovation

New Jersey, the "Pathway of the Revolution," has a rich historical background stretching from its pivotal role in the American Revolution to becoming a leader in cannabis legalization. As the state where over 100 battles were fought during the Revolution, New Jersey is steeped in American history. But today, it’s making waves in a different revolution—the cannabis industry. 

Hoboken: From Baseball Fields to Cannabis Dispensaries

One of New Jersey’s many claims to fame is its connection to baseball history. The first-ever professional baseball game was played in Hoboken in 1846 at the iconic Elysian Fields. Today, Hoboken is home to some of the state’s modern gems—like its cannabis dispensaries, situated near the very site where America’s pastime took its first swing.

Among the top dispensaries, Hoboken’s Harmony Dispensary stands out, located just blocks from the baseball landmark. It’s fitting that a state with so much history also leads the way in the evolving cannabis market, offering both recreational and medical marijuana options.

"Gimme a gabagool sandwich, and one-a dem preroll joints ya got ova there." - Tony Soprano

Imagine Tony Soprano, the legendary New Jersey mob boss from The Sopranos, seeking relaxation through cannabis therapy. If Tony were alive in today’s cannabis-friendly New Jersey, he might slip into Hoboken for a quick stop at The Apothecarium for some peace and quiet. And after grabbing his therapeutic cannabis, Tony would definitely indulge in a traditional Jersey gabagool sandwich, probably from Fiore's Deli, which has been a Hoboken staple for decades.

Tony might also make his way to the Jersey Shore for a classic pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich from Frank's Deli in Asbury Park after a laid-back cannabis therapy session. After all, no cannabis journey is complete without satisfying the munchies with some Jersey classics.

New Jersey’s Cannabis Tax: One of the Lowest in the U.S.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, New Jersey stands out for having one of the lowest cannabis tax rates in the nation. Recreational cannabis sales are subject to a 6.625% state sales tax, and local municipalities can add an additional up to 2% tax. Compared to other states where cannabis taxes can climb as high as 30%, New Jersey’s low rates make it a desirable location for both cannabis consumers and businesses alike. For medical marijuana patients, there’s even better news: as of 2022, medical marijuana is tax-exempt, ensuring affordable access for those who need it most.

The Garden State’s Revolutionary Past Meets a New Kind of Growth

From being the first state to sign the Bill of Rights to housing Thomas Edison in Menlo Park, where he invented the light bulb, New Jersey has always been at the forefront of innovation. Edison may have lit up New Jersey with electricity, but today, dispensaries across the state are lighting up in a whole new way—through the booming cannabis industry.

For example, Liberty Dispensary in Jersey City, located near Liberty Island—home to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty—pays homage to the state’s heritage of freedom while embracing the modern, forward-thinking cannabis movement.

A State of Firsts and a Future in Cannabis

New Jersey’s historical milestones don’t end with the Revolution or the invention of the light bulb. The state also hosted the first Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City in 1921, and now, it’s taking its place as a leader in the cannabis world. With more than 130 dispensaries open and a growing market, New Jersey is paving the way for a green revolution, all while staying true to its roots in liberty and prosperity.

So whether you're a history buff visiting the longest boardwalk in the world in Atlantic City or a modern cannabis connoisseur in search of the best therapeutic options, New Jersey is the place where the old meets the new.

Cannabis Taxes in New Jersey

In New Jersey, dispensaries charge customers the following taxes on cannabis products:

1. State Sales Tax: 6.625% is applied to all recreational cannabis sales.

2. Local Transfer Tax: Municipalities may impose an additional up to 2% tax on retail sales.

3. Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF): While not directly charged to customers, this fee is levied at the cultivation level and may affect final product prices. For 2024, it is $1.24 per ounce.

Thus, customers typically pay around 6.625% in state taxes, plus up to 2% if a local tax applies.