Pennsylvania Dispensary Guide (2024 Update)
In 2016, Pennsylvania took a historic step by legalizing medical cannabis. That paved the state's way for a transformative era in healthcare and wellness. The first Pennsylvania dispensary welcomed patients in February 2018. The day marked a significant milestone in the state's commitment to medical cannabis.
Pennsylvania proudly holds a robust medical cannabis program. Its cannabis laws and regulations are ever-evolving. There's a thriving network of dispensaries in Pennsylvania that cater to diverse medical needs.
But the story doesn't end there – the Keystone State is now at the crossroads of a pivotal decision. The debate on legalizing recreational cannabis has gained momentum. PA lawmakers continue to engage in discussions that could legalize cannabis recreationally.
This guide explores the nuanced details of Pennsylvania's cannabis journey thus far. From the roots of medical legalization to its blossoming cannabis history, there's a lot to uncover. Let's discover the evolving world of medical marijuana dispensaries in PA.
Pennsylvania Dispensary Overview
Only medical cannabis is legal in Pennsylvania, which means understanding the dispensary landscape is integral.
Number of medical dispensaries: 176
Pennsylvania boasts a network of 176 medical dispensaries, with more on the way. With a robust medical cannabis program, the state is dedicated to serving patients in need.
Number of recreational dispensaries: 0
Pennsylvania presently just focuses on its well-established medical cannabis program. However, legislative discussions are underway to potentially introduce adult-use dispensaries in the future.
Pennsylvanians are eagerly awaiting updates on the timeline for recreational dispensaries. Legislative considerations are ongoing.
Are cannabis home deliveries allowed?
Yes — medical cannabis patients can benefit from the convenience of home delivery services. Be sure to check with the individual dispensary to understand its delivery policies.
Are there any drive-thru dispensaries?
Yes, Pennsylvania embraces innovation with drive-thru medical dispensaries. They provide a quick and convenient option for patients in a hurry.
What are the possession and purchase limits for Pennsylvania dispensaries?
In Pennsylvania, medical cannabis patients have a 90-day purchase limit. The 90-day allowance is "up to 192 medical marijuana units."
A unit, in PA's case, may come in several forms. Examples include 3.5 grams of flower, 100 milligrams of THC-infused products, or one gram of concentrate. THC-infused products may be topicals, tinctures, liquids, oils, or capsules of some kind.
Purchases can also be made all at once or through multiple visits to dispensaries. The combination allows for a massive amount of flexibility for patients.
Are there any cannabis product type limitations in PA?
Smokable cannabis flower and higher-THC edibles remain illegal, even for medical patients, in Pennsylvania. Flower you buy from a dispensary must be used in a dry-herb vape for legal consumption.
For answers to additional questions about Pennsylvania dispensaries and cannabis laws, please refer to the FAQ section at the end of this guide.
Pennsylvania Dispensaries: Recreational List
Adult-use cannabis is not legal in PA yet. Medical cannabis is the only legal avenue to consume the plant in Pennsylvania. However, the state continues to unveil proposals to legalize the plant recreationally. While it’s currently unlikely PA will legalize recreational marijuana in 2024, efforts for the long term are underway.
At this point in Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program, it’s easy to get a medical cannabis card, especially when you use a service like NuggMD Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Medical Dispensaries
Pennsylvania's medical marijuana program has undergone significant growth and development since its inception. Now, there's a well-established and growing network of medical cannabis dispensaries. Each helps serve registered patients across the state.
PA has also increased access to certain types of medical cannabis products. That includes flower, oils, tinctures, low-dose edibles, and more.
There are 176 operational Pennsylvania dispensaries and 33 operational growers and processors. Still growing, these help over 433,000 active patients across the Keystone State. Pennsylvania has worked to ensure a reasonable ratio of dispensaries to medical cardholders. The ratio may change over time as the program evolves. Adjustments are made based on patient demand.
Below is a current list of some of the top 10 medical dispensaries across Pennsylvania. These carry a 4.0-star rating or better on Google Reviews, and many have more locations in other cities.
The shops and cities here are by no means a complete list, but we do try to keep it updated regularly. Regardless, be sure to check with your local shop before a visit to confirm their hours and product availability.
The Apothecarium Dispensary of Stroudsburg
(formerly Keystone Canna Remedies)
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 9 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday, 11 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- (484) 408-6122
- 1523 N 9th St, Stroudsburg, PA 18360
The Apothecarium Dispensary of Bethlehem
(formerly Keystone Canna Remedies)
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 9 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday, 11 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- (484) 408-6122
- 1309 Stefko Blvd, Bethlehem, PA 18017
Organic Remedies Dispensary in Enola
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 9 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday, 10 A.M. to 6 P.M.
- (717) 562-7758
- 4425 Valley Rd, Enola, PA 17025
Columbia Care Scranton Dispensary
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 10 A.M. to 8 P.M., Closed Sundays
- (570) 309-6098
- 1740 N Keyser Ave, Scranton, PA 18508
Columbia Care in Allentown
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 10 A.M. to 8 P.M., Closed Sundays
- (484) 838-7900
- 3025 Tilghman St, Allentown, PA 18104
Verilife in Lancaster
- Classification: Medical only
- Open 9 A.M. to 9 P.M. daily
- (717) 999-0840
- 2359 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602
Ethos in Allentown
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 10 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday, 10 A.M. to 6 P.M.
- (610) 674-4483
- 2733 W Emaus Ave #1, Allentown, PA 18103
Liberty Cannabis in Philadelphia
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 10 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday, 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.
- (267) 686-2824
- 8900 Krewstown Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19115
Trulieve Pittsburgh Dispensary
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 9 A.M. to 9 P.M., Sunday, 10 A.M. to 6 P.M.
- (412) 754-4480
- 5600 Forward Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Beyond / Hello in Reading
- Classification: Medical only
- Open Monday through Saturday, 9 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday, 10 A.M. to 6 P.M.
- (610) 471-1184
- 300 Cherry St, Reading, PA 19602
Pennsylvania Dispensaries FAQ
What is the minimum age to enter a dispensary in Pennsylvania?
The minimum age to enter a dispensary in Pennsylvania is 18. For more detailed information, refer to NuggMD’s guide on Pennsylvania’s cannabis laws and regulations.
What do you need to enter and purchase from a PA dispensary?
To enter and purchase from a Pennsylvania dispensary, you typically need a valid state-issued ID proving you are at least 18 and have a Pennsylvania medical cannabis card. For more information on what to expect and the requirements, brush up on how to get a PA med card and be sure to browse our beginner's guide to cannabis dispensaries.
How much is medical marijuana in PA medical dispensaries?
The average cost of an ounce of medical cannabis varies, sometimes drastically, by state. For Pennsylvania, the cost is around $9 per gram or approximately $252 per ounce.
What is the average cost of adult-use cannabis in Pennsylvania recreational dispensaries? What is the retail tax?
Adult-use cannabis is not yet legal in Pennsylvania. As of now, there’s no medical tax for cannabis patients. There is only a 5% tax for growers to transactions between growers/processors and dispensaries.
If the state does push recreational cannabis through, there’s a proposed 8% sales tax for customers and 5% for retailers.
How much does it cost to get an MMJ card to access medical dispensaries in Pennsylvania?
There’s a $50 fee for the patient or caregiver's medical cannabis ID card. Some individuals may qualify for a no-cost card (for example, some Medicaid recipients are eligible for no-cost).
Start your consultation and evaluation today with NuggMD for just $139.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania stands at a crossroads, contemplating the potential legalization of adult-use cannabis. As we watch the state continue to shape its cannabis future, NuggMD Pennsylvania remains a go-to resource. Explore the benefits of a Pennsylvania med card, browse common patient questions, and learn about the state's qualifying conditions.
