DeKALB – Cannabis sales exceed $2 billion in 2024, a record-setting growth in sales since legalization.

Of the $2 billion, the Illinois Department of Revenue said that adult use cannabis sales accounted for $1.72 billion, medical cannabis sales accounted for $285 million and sales taxes accounted for over $490 million in 2024.

Governor JB Pritzker spoke about the success of the cannabis industry under his administration.

“The numbers are clear: Five years after we legalized adult use cannabis in Illinois, we’re seeing the economic impact of a thriving cannabis industry,” Pritzker said. “With $2 billion in record-setting sales and $490 million generated in tax revenue, our first-in-the-nation equity-focused cannabis industry is the result of my administration’s policies.”

Over 56 million cannabis items were sold to customers in 2024, of which over 48 million were sold in Illinois adult use cannabis dispensaries. The total number of sales broke the record set in 2023 by more than 13%.

Pritzker acknowledged the effects of the unregulated market on legal operators in the industry.

“While I am pleased with the continued success of cannabis sales and revenues in Illinois, the market is being undermined by the proliferation of the unregulated intoxicating hemp market,” Priztker said. “Licensed cannabis businesses comply with strict state regulations, pay significant taxes and undergo rigorous product testing.”

Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer Erin Johnson is optimistic about the success of the cannabis industry in Illinois.

“As additional dispensaries open their doors, that increased competition leads to increased availability of product and better prices for consumers, just as we anticipated,” Johnson said. “We look forward to the continued growth and success of Illinois’ cannabis industry, leading to further economic development and public awareness and support for responsible consumption.”