What U.S. City Has The Most Marijuana Dispensaries Per Capita – Freezes New Marijuana Dispensary Licenses Until 2027

The ordinance, added to city code on Monday, prohibits new business licenses for adult recreational marijuana dispensaries while allowing existing ones to relocate if compliant with regulations.

Missoula currently hosts about 30 dispensaries, more per capita than any other U.S. city according to a Varalife report. Public health officials recommend limiting dispensaries to no more than 12 based on the population. The city is responding to data showing 70 minors and young adults were treated for pot-related issues in 2021, amid concerns over rising THC potency, now at 35 percent compared to 5 percent in 2000. Council members emphasized the need to slow expansion and better track the industry.

During the moratorium, extending through July 2027, Missoula will develop and evaluate Title 22 zoning standards for dispensary location and concentration.

For Montana businesses, this pause may signal a cautious approach to balancing growth and regulation in emerging markets. Given Montana’s dispersed populations and community values, similar regulatory measures could influence how cannabis commerce integrates with local economies and public health priorities statewide.

Missoula places moratorium on new marijuana dispensaries
By The Missoula Current News – Daily News in Missoula Montana