The legal cannabis market continues its dynamic evolution, with consumer preferences dictating shifts in top-selling strains across the United States as of October 2025. While some classic varieties maintain their popularity, a notable reshuffling of favorites indicates a vibrant and ever-changing landscape driven by new trends and persistent demand for quality genetics.
Data compiled from state regulatory agencies, cannabis commissions, and industry research firms reveals a complex picture of consumer behavior. Virginia remains the only legal cannabis state without licensed sales, and Minnesota’s adult-use market has yet to launch, leaving the remaining legal states to showcase their sales leaders.
Shifting Tides in Top Strains by State
October 2025 saw several states experience notable changes at the top of their sales charts. In Alaska, the long-standing favorite Blue Dream reclaimed the top spot from Wedding Cake. Arizona witnessed Donnie Burger emerge as the leading strain, displacing Wedding Cake. California also saw Blue Dream ascend to the number one position, moving past Cereal Milk, while Colorado reported MAC taking the lead from Jack Herer.
Further east, Connecticut‘s top seller is now Bonanza, which replaced Blue Dream. Delaware and Maine both crowned Wedding Cake as their best-selling strain. Maryland experienced a shift with Brownie Scout taking over from Runtz, and Massachusetts saw Bananas rise to the top, pushing out Ice Cream.
In Michigan, Runtz continued its reign as the best-selling strain. Missouri saw Triple Burger claim the top spot from Cap Junky. Montana‘s favorite strain is now Gelato, having overtaken Sour Diesel. Nevada‘s leading strain is Black Label, replacing Jenny Kush.
New Jersey‘s top seller became Cream, which supplanted Orange Push Pop. New Mexico and New York both saw Sour Diesel claim the leading position, replacing Blue Dream and Garlicane, respectively. Ohio reported Bananas as its top strain, moving past Skunk 1.
Finally, Oregon‘s top strain is Super Boof, a popular choice that took over from Jack Herer, while Rhode Island‘s market leader is now Jack Herer, ousting Blue Dream.
Enduring Favorites and Trending Genetics
Despite the monthly fluctuations, several strains consistently appear across state top-seller lists and industry trend reports, highlighting their enduring appeal. Strains such as Wedding Cake, Blue Dream, Runtz, Gelato, and Sour Diesel continue to be highly sought after across multiple legal markets. These genetics often boast balanced effects, appealing flavors, and a proven track record that resonates with a broad consumer base.
Emerging and recently trending strains are also making significant waves. Permanent Marker, Lemon Cherry Gelato, and Super Boof have been frequently cited as popular choices, showcasing a consumer appetite for novel terpene profiles and potent, unique experiences. The popularity of strains like Super Boof, noted for its energetic and uplifting high, underscores a growing interest in hybrids that offer specific, desirable effects.
Market Dynamics and Future Outlook
The cannabis market’s volatility, marked by these shifting sales trends, is a testament to its dynamism. Factors such as cultivation quality, effective marketing, and evolving consumer discovery through online reviews and budtender recommendations all contribute to a strain’s rise or fall in popularity. As more states legalize and mature markets refine their offerings, the competition for the top-selling spot intensifies.
Industry analysts predict continued growth, with the U.S. cannabis market projected to reach significant financial milestones in the coming years. This expansion is likely to fuel further innovation in strain development and marketing, ensuring that the quest for the best-selling cannabis strain remains a captivating narrative within the industry news cycle.
