Cost of Opening a Dispensary in Various States
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Alabama:
- Non-refundable application fee: $2,500
- Licensing application and development costs: Between $35,000 to $75,000
- Capital costs after licensing: Ranging from $400,000 to over $1,000,000
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California:
- Average cost of opening a dispensary: Ranging from $150,000 to over $2 million
- Startup costs include annual staffing costs, rent, and yearly renovations
- State issues only five integrated facility licenses and 12 cultivation licenses
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Oklahoma:
- License cost: Approximately $2,500
- Startup costs: $10,000 to over $150,000
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South Dakota:
- Fees to open a dispensary: Up to $100,000 in addition to a $5,000 state application cost
Tips for Starting a Cannabis Dispensary
- Researching Licensing
- Learning Regulations
- Securing Capital
- Developing a Business Plan
- Finding a Location
Best States to Open a Dispensary
- Favorable Regulatory Conditions:
- Oregon, Colorado, and Michigan
Key Considerations on Opening a Dispensary
- Ongoing expenses include rent, payroll, inventory, utilities, advertising, and taxes
- Compliance is crucial for profitability
- Heavy security systems help reduce theft risks
- Retail POS systems assist with inventory management and sales tracking
Challenges and Income Potential
- Challenges:
- Funding is a significant hurdle
- Income Potential:
- Location, store quality, and customer volume significantly impact income
- California’s dispensaries can generate high profits
Regulatory Updates
- Arkansas:
- Closer to adopting a recreational marijuana program after a state Supreme Court ruling
Application Deadlines and Processes
- Alabama:
- Accepting applications until October 14, with winners announced on June 12, 2023
- Fee for integrated facility license: $50,000
- Limited facility licenses issued: Five integrated and 12 cultivation
Easiest State to Open a Dispensary
- Oklahoma:
- Estimated license cost: $2,500