Riverside County Cannabis Sales Surge in Q3 2025

Cannabis retail activity in Riverside County with customers and products on display.

Riverside County, CA, December 3, 2025

Riverside County has achieved remarkable cannabis sales for the summer of 2025, with taxable sales reaching $87.8 million, positioning it third in California behind Los Angeles and San Diego counties. This surge reflects an overall growth trend in the state’s cannabis market amidst some regional challenges, marking Riverside County as a key player with its 342 licensed cannabis businesses. The county’s cannabis sales underscore the influence of its substantial adult population and competitive retail environment, despite facing hurdles such as regulatory changes and market competition.

Riverside County, CA

Riverside County’s cannabis sales for the summer of 2025 have surged, ranking third in California behind Los Angeles and San Diego counties.

According to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), Riverside County reported taxable cannabis sales of $87.8 million during the third quarter of 2025 (July-September). This places Riverside County third in the state, following Los Angeles County with $276.7 million and San Diego County with $129.3 million in taxable sales for the same period. Statewide, total cannabis sales amounted to $939.9 million in Q3 2025.

The increase in Riverside County’s cannabis sales reflects a broader trend in California’s cannabis market. However, the state has also experienced challenges, including a significant decline in sales in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year.

Riverside County’s robust cannabis sales are influenced by several factors, including its large adult population and the presence of numerous licensed cannabis retailers. As of the latest data, Riverside County has 342 licensed cannabis businesses, making it one of the leading counties in California for cannabis retail operations.

Despite the positive sales figures, the cannabis industry in California faces ongoing challenges, such as regulatory changes and market competition. For instance, San Diego County recently increased its cannabis tax rate from 8% to 10% to address budget deficits, a move that has raised concerns about potential impacts on legal cannabis sales.

Overall, Riverside County’s performance in the summer of 2025 highlights its significant role in California’s cannabis industry, contributing substantially to the state’s overall sales figures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What were Riverside County’s cannabis sales in the summer of 2025?

Riverside County reported taxable cannabis sales of $87.8 million during the third quarter of 2025 (July-September), ranking third in California behind Los Angeles and San Diego counties.

How does Riverside County’s cannabis sales compare to other counties in California?

Riverside County’s cannabis sales of $87.8 million in Q3 2025 placed it third in the state, following Los Angeles County with $276.7 million and San Diego County with $129.3 million in taxable sales for the same period.

What factors contribute to Riverside County’s high cannabis sales?

Riverside County’s large adult population and the presence of numerous licensed cannabis retailers contribute to its high cannabis sales figures. As of the latest data, the county has 342 licensed cannabis businesses, making it one of the leading counties in California for cannabis retail operations.

Has Riverside County’s cannabis industry faced any challenges recently?

While Riverside County’s cannabis industry has seen growth, the broader California market has faced challenges, including a significant decline in sales in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year.

How does Riverside County’s cannabis tax rate compare to other counties?

Riverside County’s cannabis tax rate varies by city. For example, in Lake Elsinore and Wildomar, the combined state and local tax rate is 8.75%, while Palm Springs has a rate of 9.25%.

Key Features of Riverside County’s Cannabis Sales in Summer 2025

Feature Details
Taxable Sales $87.8 million in Q3 2025
State Ranking Third in California, behind Los Angeles and San Diego counties
Statewide Sales $939.9 million in Q3 2025
County Population Large adult population contributing to high sales
Licensed Retailers 342 licensed cannabis businesses in Riverside County


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