How Boomers, Millennials, and Gen Z Differ in Strain Choices

lab_tech009

The cannabis marketplace isn’t one-size-fits-all. While legalization and innovation open the door for everyone, each generation approaches cannabis differently—shaped by cultural attitudes, health priorities, and lifestyle choices. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, strain and product preferences highlight distinct generational trends that dispensaries and brands can’t afford to overlook.

Boomers: Health First, Flavor Second

Baby Boomers often approach cannabis with health and wellness in mind. Surveys consistently show this generation is more likely to use cannabis for medical purposes—from managing arthritis and chronic pain to supporting sleep and recovery. According to Verilife research, Boomers are twice as likely to use cannabis solely for medical needs compared to Millennials, who blend recreational and medical motivations.

When it comes to products, Boomers lean toward edibles, with 63% reporting them as a preferred form of consumption, compared to 61% who still choose flower. Edibles offer discreet, long-lasting relief—ideal for those less interested in the ritual of smoking.

Millennials: Versatility and Exploration

Millennials sit at the center of cannabis culture, straddling recreational and therapeutic use. Data from the Sanctuary Wellness Institute shows that 36% of Millennials currently use cannabis, making them one of the most engaged age groups.

Unlike Boomers, Millennials are adventurous with consumption methods—embracing flower, vapes, and edibles nearly equally. The Veriheal survey found 79% of 18–41-year-olds (Millennials and younger) still prefer flower overall, valuing the fast onset and variety of strain experiences. Yet this same group is driving demand for craft edibles and cannabis beverages, reflecting their desire to experiment and socialize around cannabis.

Motivations here skew recreational—49% of millennials cite fun and stress relief as core reasons for use. But Millennials also see cannabis as part of a broader wellness lifestyle, often using it for headaches, mild anxiety, and relaxation.

Gen Z: Cautious but Curious

The youngest adult consumers, Gen Z, bring a complex relationship with cannabis. While 33% report current cannabis use—slightly less than Millennials—their consumption patterns emphasize caution. A striking finding from Sanctuary’s data is that 38% of Gen Z respondents believe cannabis is “too strong today”, the highest among all groups. This indicates a generation that is hyper-aware of potency and more inclined to monitor dosage.

Gen Z is drawn to flower for its fast-acting nature but is also open to low-dose edibles and CBD-forward strains. They view cannabis through a wellness and social lens, but unlike Millennials, they’re more selective—preferring transparency in lab testing, terpene profiles, and sustainable growing practices.

Why These Differences Matter

Generational divides highlight how cannabis isn’t just about strains—it’s about context. Boomers seek reliable, discreet relief. Millennials blend recreation with exploration, making them open to trend-driven products. Gen Z is shaping the next wave by demanding potency awareness and cleaner product development.

For brands and dispensaries, tailoring offerings to these audiences is crucial. Stocking edibles and CBD-heavy strains for Boomers, craft flower and versatile products for Millennials, and low-dose, lab-certified options for Gen Z ensures no generation is overlooked.

Key Surveys to Explore Further

Final Word

Generational differences in cannabis use go far beyond stereotypes. Each group approaches strains, potency, and products with unique goals—and the industry is adapting accordingly. By listening to Boomers’ health needs, Millennials’ taste for variety, and Gen Z’s call for transparency, the cannabis market can grow in ways that respect and reflect every generation’s voice.