How Much is a Zip of Weed?

Understanding the slang terms commonly used for cannabis measurements is incredibly helpful when buying flower. Phrases like "eighths," "quarters," and "zips" can be confusing if you’re unaware of what they mean. 

To spot fair prices better, consumers would be wise to know how much bud comes in each weight increment, like a zip of weed. The prices of cannabis flower are mainly determined by weight, but they also fluctuate due to factors such as quality and growing practices. However, once basic weight measurements are understood, consumers can better navigate their options and make the most informed decision for their consumption needs. 

How Much is in a Zip, and Where Does the Term Come From?

A zip is a slang term for an ounce of cannabis, which equals about 28 grams. While it may seem like a lot to some users, a zip is a typical order for consumers buying in bulk.

The term "zip" likely comes from Ziploc bags, which are often used to store weed. Like most slang, zip likely came about out of shorthand, the practice of shortening and simplifying words. 

Today, in most cannabis dispensaries, a zip is referred to as an ounce. Sometimes, using terms like 'zip' can serve as an unofficial metric for gauging how informed someone may be about cannabis. For many, including long-time consumers and underground operators, using the right slang demonstrates plant knowledge and community knowledge. 

Beyond Zips: Cannabis Measurements and Slang Terms

From bits to massive buds, weed is sold in numerous quantities. A few standard units are used today, from smaller quantities like grams to larger ones like zips and pounds. 

Over time, some of these terms and their sizes have been phased out of usual cannabis pricing. Below is a gathering of common terms of the past few decades, both modern and older, that consumers may want to know:

• Nickel Bag: This is a largely phased-out measurement that was once a popular low-priced offering just a few decades ago. Named for their $ 5-per-bag price, nickel bags can vary in size, but they most often contain a half gram or the amount needed for one bowl. 
• Dime Bag: Similar to a Nickel Bag, quantities can vary with these now-antiquated $10 bags. In most cases, buyers would get between a half and a whole gram.
• Gram: The smallest amount typically sold today, a gram usually contains enough weed to roll one or two joints, depending on the nug's structure. Many grams are sold for $20 a bag, so consumers often refer to grams as a ‘20 bag.’ 
• Eighth: One of the most popular amounts sold, an eighth equals 3.5 grams, totaling an eighth of an ounce. Lovers of pizza and fractions also use “slice” as slang for referencing an eighth.  
• Quarter: A quarter ounce is 7 grams, often a perfect quantity for those who like a bit more bud on hand without too much. Most consumers stick to ‘quarter’ when describing this size bag of weed, though names like “Quad” and “QP” are used in some circles. 
• Half Ounce: As the name states, 14 grams amounts to half an ounce of weed. The full name is often used, though various terms, including "half zip” or “half,” are also used.
• Zip (Ounce): A zip, or ounce, amounts to 28 ounces of bud. Other popular slang terms for this size offering include an “O.” 
• QWOP: A quarter pound of weed, not to be confused with a quarter bag.
• Pound: A pound, or 16 zips, equals 448 grams. Some slang for this size includes “LB” or “elbow.” 

Prices fluctuate due to various factors. To get the best value, consumers should know how much bud comes in a zip to better spot quality flower at fair prices.

How Much Does a Zip Cost?

Prices for zips and other quantities vary by location, quality, and the source of the sale, including its legal status. When considering zip prices, consider the following factors:

• Location and Demand: Prices tend to be lower in states where weed is legal. Essentially, the greater the access to the plant, the less likely the cost should be. For example, states like California, Oregon, Michigan, and Colorado have lower prices because there's an abundance of cannabis on the market. In some cases, including Oregon, there may even be an oversupply of cannabis, with growers unable to move all their products unless it’s steeply discounted.
• Quality: Cannabis quality can vary due to various factors. While not always true, in most cases, higher costs tend to correlate with how the flower is grown (indoor flower costs more to produce than sun-grown or greenhouse flower), how fresh it is (aging products tend to be discounted), and nug structure (full-size nugs are often higher priced than pre-ground flower).
• Legal Status: Taxes significantly raise the cost of cannabis in legal states. Licensed dispensaries must follow strict state rules, and many regulations lead to increased costs passed on to consumers. Unlicensed sellers may charge a premium for the risk associated with selling and distributing illegal cannabis.
• Market Competition: Prices may be lower in large cities or markets with heavy competition. Some rural and smaller markets may also charge higher prices, but most tend to charge less because supply and demand differ from those in highly populated areas. 
• Supply Chain Issues: Shortages in supply can affect the price of a zip, as shipping delays push prices higher. Typically, high demand or low supply leads to price spikes. 
• Order Size: Buying a zip may prove to be a fiscally sound decision for some people, often saving consumers money and time. Like big-box retailers, dispensaries sometimes offer discounts on bulk purchases. 

Dispensary vs. Unlicensed Market Pricing

In states where cannabis is legal, a zip can go for anywhere between $100 and $300 or even more, depending on the quality of the bud, local taxes, and other factors. 

Some components remain the same across the licensed and unlicensed markets. High-quality, in-demand cultivars tend to cost more. A top pick in a primary cannabis-consuming market like Los Angeles might cost closer to $300 in many licensed dispensaries. On the other hand, a more basic or lower-quality cultivar from a smaller shop may be discounted to around $100 to $150 per zip. 

Prices can vary even more in states where cannabis is still illegal, increasing the risks involved in selling it. A zip can cost between $180 and $400. Additionally, unlicensed sellers are more likely to change their prices more frequently based on demand, quality, and other fluctuating factors

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is a Zip of Weed?

A zip is slang for an ounce of cannabis, totaling 28 grams. 

How Many Zips Are in a Pound?

There are 16 zips in a pound of weed. A zip is 28 grams, and a pound is 448 grams.

Why do zip prices vary so much?

Zips, like all cannabis quantities, are priced based on a number of factors, including but not necessarily limited to:

• Product Quality
• Location
• Market Competition
• Product Availability
• Legal Status
• Supply Chain Performance
• Order Size 
• Grower Reputation
• Processor Reputation
• Cultivation Style

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.