States with the Most Cannabis Jobs – 2022 Edition

Cannabis jobs are on the rise across the world. In the U.S., the total number of full-time cannabis jobs reached 428,059 as of January 2022. Even at the height of the pandemic, the country added 107,000 new cannabis jobs, a 33% increase from the previous year.

Cannabis job growth in the U.S. has been incredible over the past five years, reaching over 27% year after year. If you’re interested in joining the cannabis workforce, here are the states with the most cannabis jobs.

1. California

California continues to top the list of the country’s largest cannabis markets. In 2021, 21,613 cannabis jobs were added, reaching 83,607 total jobs. The Golden State brought in $5.1 billion in sales, a 15% increase from the previous year.

2. Colorado

After eight years of cannabis sales, Colorado stands out as one of the strongest markets in the nation. In 2021, the state made $2.2 billion and supported 38,000 jobs. However, the job growth rate was 1.5%, a slow growth rate compared to newer markets.

3. Michigan

Michigan has no cap on retail licenses, allowing the state to meet the demand for cannabis. In 2021, Michigan made $1.79 billion in revenue, an 81% sales growth, and supported 31,152 cannabis jobs. It added 13,074 cannabis jobs from the previous year.

4. Illinois

In 2021, Illinois brought in $1.78 billion in revenue and supported 28,992 legal cannabis jobs, adding 12,155 jobs in 2021. In 2021, sales increased by 73% despite having a limited recreational and medical market. However, more retail licenses are on the way.

5. Massachusetts

Massachusetts has done an excellent job of issuing retail licenses to meet demand. In 2021, Massachusetts brought in $1.65 billion in sales, an 81% sales growth, and supported 27,212 cannabis jobs, adding 11,112 since the previous year. 

6. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a medical-only cannabis market and one of the largest in the country. As of January 2022, Pennsylvania had 26,932 legal, full-time cannabis jobs. The secret to their success is the relatively high number of dispensaries per capita (14 per 1 million residents).

7. Florida

Although Florida only allows medical cannabis, it’s become one of the biggest markets in the nation. In 2021, The Sunshine State added 8,895 cannabis jobs to a total of 25,895 full-time cannabis jobs. The state had a 22% sales growth with $1.5 billion in revenue.

8. Arizona

Arizona legalized recreational cannabis through the Safe and Smart Act in November 2020. Since then, The Grand Canyon State has added 2,600 jobs, reaching 23,333 cannabis jobs. Cannabis legalization and the rise in recreational jobs increased total sales by 31%.

9. Washington

Washington is another state with a mature cannabis market that has experienced slow and steady growth. At the start of 2022, Washington state had 22,516 cannabis jobs. Washington has a slower job growth rate at just 3% compared to newer markets.

10. Oregon

Oregon is one of the country’s most mature cannabis markets, with gradual and stable growth over the years. In 2021, Oregon made $1.18 billion, a 7% sales growth, and supported 19,938 cannabis jobs. It added 1,957 cannabis jobs from the previous year.

How to Find Cannabis Jobs

Over the next few years, more states are expected to legalize cannabis. There’s also some hope for federal legalization. If you want to have the best chance at finding cannabis work, here are some tips to make your job search successful.

• Research cannabis employment laws: Each state has different rules and regulations for cannabis businesses and employees. Find out if you are qualified to apply for a cannabis job. You may need to get a background check and work permit before starting a job.
• Earn industry credentials: Get a comprehensive cannabis education from Cannabis Training University, the most renowned cannabis training institute in the country. Although credentials are not required, getting CTU certified can give you the edge you need to beat the competition.
• Create a resume and cover letter: A resume and cover letter include your job experience and education. Most people don’t have a cover letter, which can give you a competitive advantage.
• Search for a cannabis job: Look for cannabis jobs on traditional and cannabis-specific job boards. Networking at local industry events allows you to meet business leaders and start a relationship that can lead to a job when a position is open.

Start Your Cannabis Career with CTU

Cannabis Training University (CTU) is the leading training institute for cannabis job seekers and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking for an entry-level gig or want to apply for a business license, our Master of Cannabis Certification Program can help. Enroll today!