UPDATE: Marijuana stores in Seattle are officially up and running. Welcome the cannabis retail industry to the emerald city!

The official opening of the Seattle recreational marijuana industry is just around corner, so we decided to create an infographic and compare some of the most notable recreational weed cities around the world! Starting with long time cannabis destination, Amsterdam, then followed by newcomers: Montevideo, Denver, and Seattle.

Keep in mind that the Seattle recreational industry has not officially opened. Some of these facts will be based on as if the local industry is already operational. Also, all facts and stats are believed to be true, or are close approximations. We’re sure that it won’t be long until these statistics will grow, as when the industry has opened, more and more people will be trying their hand at recreational marijuana, so we could see a further surge in numbers in our local area once it does. We have done extensive research to compile this infographic. If anything needs to be changed, please let us know!

(INFOGRAPHIC LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM OF POST)

While analyzing the marijuana infographic, there were several surprising and interesting comparisons:

1. Amsterdam, the location with the richest recreational cannabis history, marijuana is still technically illegal. Ever since the Dutch parliament decriminalized possession of up to 5 grams in 1976, authorities have been tolerant.

2. Even though Montevideo, Uruguay, has a full blown legal recreational pot industry, cannabis is purchased in state-licensed pharmacies.

3. Smoking is allowed in all Amsterdam coffeeshops (where marijuana is purchased). The only recreational marijuana industry which is technically illegal. Irony.

4. Amsterdam has 250+ coffeeshops. Seattle and Denver don’t even come close. Granted there are more people living in Amsterdam, still, 200 more coffeeshops?

5. Seattle has (will have) approximately 29,000 people per marijuana retail store. More than double the amount of people per store in Denver, and way more than Amsterdam.

6. Seattle is the only recreational weed industry that doesn’t allow plants to be grown at home.

Which comparisons we listed stand out to you? What comparisons have you found that you find interesting?