Fayetteville, a vibrant city nestled in the Ozark Mountains and home to the University of Arkansas, has emerged as the U.S. city with the highest rate of marijuana use disorder. According to a 2024 report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 5.6% of Fayetteville residents are affected, surpassing cities like San Francisco (4.8%) and Denver (4.6%) .
The Rise of Medical Marijuana in Arkansas
Arkansas legalized medical marijuana in 2016, and since the first dispensary opened in 2019, the industry has seen exponential growth. By the end of 2023, medical marijuana sales in the state reached a record $283 million, contributing to a cumulative total of over $1 billion since inception. The number of active medical marijuana patient cards also increased to 97,374 by January 2024.
Fayetteville: A Cultural Hub Embracing Cannabis
Several factors contribute to Fayetteville’s high cannabis consumption:
- University Influence: The University of Arkansas, with over 27,000 students, fosters a youthful and progressive environment.
- Cultural Acceptance: Events like the annual Hemp Fest and 420 Rally reflect the city’s embrace of cannabis culture .
- Accessibility: Fayetteville hosts multiple dispensaries, making medical marijuana readily available to residents.
Legal Landscape and Enforcement
While Arkansas permits medical marijuana, recreational use remains illegal. However, enforcement is relatively lenient. Possession of less than four ounces is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. In practice, many law enforcement agencies opt for warnings or diversion programs .
Economic Impact
The medical marijuana industry has significantly contributed to Arkansas’s economy. In 2023 alone, the state collected $31 million in taxes from medical marijuana sales, bringing the total tax revenue since 2019 to over $120 million .
Looking Ahead: The Future of Cannabis in Arkansas
Despite the booming medical marijuana market, Arkansas voters rejected a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana in November 2022. However, with growing public support and economic incentives, the conversation around legalization continues.
Fayetteville’s unique blend of cultural acceptance, accessibility, and lenient enforcement has positioned it as a focal point in America’s evolving cannabis landscape.
