THC distillate, also known as THC oil, is a cannabis concentrate that contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana that produces the “high” feeling. Distillate is made by refining crude cannabis oil through a distillation process to isolate pure THC. This results in a clear, viscous oil that can contain up to 99% activated THC.
THC distillate is a popular choice among both recreational and medical cannabis users due to its high THC levels. It can be consumed on its own or infused into a variety of products like vape cartridges, edibles, and tinctures. When purchasing THC distillate, one of the main factors determining cost is the amount of THC per gram in the product. So how much does THC distillate cost per gram? Let’s take a closer look.
Average Cost Per Gram of THC Distillate
The average price for one gram of THC distillate ranges from $25 to $60 depending on quality, THC percentage, source material, and location. Here is a breakdown of the typical cost per gram:
– Low quality distillate: $25 to $35 per gram
– Medium quality distillate: $35 to $45 per gram
– High quality distillate: $45 to $60+ per gram
Keep in mind that prices tend to be higher in states where recreational cannabis is not yet legal. In legal markets like California, Colorado, and Oregon, there is greater competition which drives the cost per gram down.
Factors Affecting THC Distillate Prices
Several key factors impact the retail price you’ll pay for THC distillate:
THC percentage – Distillate with higher THC levels commands a higher price. Average THC percentage is usually 60-90%. However, high quality distillate can contain up to 99% THC.
Source material quality – The starting cannabis flower used to produce the distillate greatly impacts potency and purity. Distillate from top shelf flower with high cannabinoid levels is more expensive.
Extraction method – Certain solventless extraction methods like CO2 extraction yield a more pure distillate. This is reflected in the cost per gram.
Third party lab testing – Reputable brands test distillate for contaminants and post up-to-date Certificates of Analysis. This adds to production costs.
Reputable brand – Established, trusted cannabis brands charge a premium for their distillate products.
Dispensary vs. delivery – Buying from a licensed dispensary generally costs more than delivery services.
Location – Like most goods, THC distillate costs significantly more in states where cannabis is not recreationally legal.
Cost Comparison of THC Distillate Products
THC distillate can be purchased in several product forms. The cost per gram will depend on the specific product:
Raw THC distillate oil – This is pure undiluted cannabis oil. It ranges from a thick, honey-like consistency to a viscous, sap-like liquid. Expect to pay $25 to $60 per gram.
Distillate vape cartridges – Pre-filled vape carts with cannabis oil and terpenes are very common. These cost $25 to $60 per half gram or full gram.
Distillate syringes – Distillate sold in oral syringes makes dosing easier. Expect to pay $40 to $60 per gram.
THC capsules – Pre-filled gel caps with cannabis oil cost $15 to $30 for a 10-pack with 25-50mg THC per capsule.
Distillate edibles – Drops, tinctures, candies, cookies, etc. made with distillate range from $15 to $50 per 100mg of THC.
So while a gram of raw distillate may cost $40, a distillate-infused chocolate bar containing 100mg of THC may only cost $20. The product format impacts the actual cost per gram you pay.
Average Cost of 1 Gram Distillate by State
The price of THC distillate can vary quite a bit between states. Some of the factors that lead to price differences include:
– Legal status – Recreational vs medical vs illegal state
– Taxes – Some states add hefty cannabis taxes
– Supply and demand – Less competition in newer markets
– Testing requirements – States with stricter regulations increase costs
Here are the average prices of 1 gram of THC distillate in several key cannabis states:
California – $25 to $45 per gram
As one of the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, California has a very mature market with ample supply. This makes distillate in California more affordable.
Colorado – $30 to $50 per gram
Another early recreational state, competition is fierce in Colorado bringing lower distillate prices. But high demand keeps prices from bottoming out.
Oregon – $18 to $35 per gram
Oregon has a massive oversupply of cannabis, causing THC distillate prices to drop to very low levels to move inventory.
Washington – $30 to $50 per gram
The market in Washington resembles neighbor Oregon although prices remain a bit higher. Expect cheaper distillate prices in coming years.
Michigan – $30 to $60 per gram
As a newer recreational state, the Michigan market is still ramping up. But prices are coming down as more producers get licensed.
Nevada – $50 to $70 per gram
Limited licensing and massive tourism demand results in higher prices in Nevada. Distillate costs noticeably more here.
Massachusetts – $50 to $70 per gram
Still a new recreational state, Massachusetts has limited cannabis production allowing distillate producers to charge premium pricing.
Illinois – $50 to $80 per gram
Restrictive licensing has led to supply issues in newly legal Illinois. Distillate prices are inflated compared to more mature markets.
Alaska – $50 to $90 per gram
The remote geography and limited cannabis production of Alaska creates high distillate prices due to lack of supply.
As you can see, the cost per gram varies greatly between states based on local cannabis regulations and market conditions.
Buying THC Distillate in Bulk
For large quantity purchases, THC distillate can be bought at wholesale prices. Here are the typical bulk pricing tiers:
1 gram – $25 to $60 per gram
3.5 grams (1/8 ounce) – $80 to $200
7 grams (1/4 ounce) – $160 to $400
14 grams (1/2 ounce) – $280 to $700
28 grams (1 ounce) – $500 to $1200
112 grams (1/4 pound) – $1800 to $4000
224 grams (1/2 pound) – $3200 to $7000
448 grams (1 pound) – $5000 to $10000
Bulk pricing gives a discount of up to 50% or more compared to buying single grams. This pricing applies to dispensaries as well as direct wholesale purchases.
Buying THC distillate in bulk is recommended for manufacturers producing vape cartridges, edibles, topicals, and other infused products. Retail cannabis stores may also buy bulk distillate to save on costs.
When purchasing large quantities, be sure to thoroughly vet the company and request recent test results to ensure quality and safety. Only reputable producers sell clean, compliant bulk distillate.
Saving on THC Distillate Costs
Here are some tips for getting the best deals on THC distillate:
– Compare prices from different distillate manufacturers and retailers
– Check websites and social media for coupon codes and promotions
– Join loyalty programs to earn points and rewards
– Look for sales around major holidays (4/20, 7/10, etc.)
– Buy in bulk for bulk pricing discounts
– Buy house brand distillate from dispensaries if cost is most important
– Purchase during off-peak times when demand is lower
– Buy from a delivery service to avoid dispensary markups
– Shop in recreational states like Oregon and California where supply is higher
Being a smart shopper will help you find the lowest prices on quality THC distillate. With some research and planning, you can save substantially.
Is THC Distillate Worth the Cost?
At $25 to $60 per gram, THC distillate may seem expensive compared to the cost of cannabis flower. But given the purity, potency, and versatility of distillate, the price is justified for many consumers.
Advantages of using THC distillate include:
– Extremely high THC concentrations up to 99%
– Provides intense euphoric high desired by some users
– Odorless and flavorless making it easy to use discreetly
– Works faster than traditional edibles
– Vaporizes cleanly for potent effects from vape pens
– Easily mixes into vape oils, food, topicals, tinctures, etc.
– Portioning is simple due to potency consistency
For medical patients, the therapeutic benefits of distillate’s concentrated THC make it very valuable for pain, nausea, appetite stimulation, sleep, and more. And for recreational users, the convenience and potency has a premium appeal.
While not the most cost effective form of cannabis if only looking at THC value, distillate does provide purity, strength, and versatility that makes it worth the price for most buyers.
Conclusion
THC distillate ranges from $25 to $60 per gram on average, depending on quality, brand, location, and other factors. Buying in legal recreational states like California, Oregon, and Colorado provides the lowest prices. While new recreational markets like Illinois and Massachusetts command the highest prices from lack of supply.
Despite sometimes steep pricing compared to cannabis flower, THC distillate remains popular for recreational use and medical treatment thanks to its unmatched potency, purity, and versatility. Discounts can be found for bulk purchases or by shopping sales and promotions. While still an investment, quality THC distillate can be worth the price for the proper consumer.
