The 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health has confirmed that marijuana use in the United States has surpassed cigarette smoking. This shift comes as state-level legalization expands and younger generations increasingly view cannabis as a lower-risk alternative to tobacco.
According to the federal study, 43.8 million Americans aged 12 and older reported regular marijuana use, compared to 36.1 million cigarette smokers. Brian Johnson, executive director of Elevate Treatment and Recovery Solutions, noted that legalization has made individuals more comfortable reporting their use. He added that younger, health-conscious demographics perceive fewer risks associated with cannabis compared to tobacco and alcohol.
| Substance | US Users in 2025 (Millions) |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | ~130.0 |
| Marijuana | 43.8 |
| Cigarettes | 36.1 |
While cannabis use grows, health experts emphasize the importance of recognizing when recreational use turns into dependency. Warning signs include an inability to control consumption or stop using, and when the substance begins causing disruption to daily life and personal relationships.
