It's no secret that prices are on the rise everywhere. Groceries? Expensive. Rent? Higher than ever. Gas? Let's not even get started. And as the cost of living increases a lot of us feel like tightening our belts is a necessity but can you do this while leaving a space for a cannabis budget? We say yes, you can and you should: the idea of prices rising is already upsetting, and you don't have to compromise on the quality of your cannabis on top of that. We're here to tell you how to make every dollar count, without settling for less.  

So, what do you need to know? We can start by understanding dispensary pricing, knowing when and how to buy, and selecting the right product: you can really get more value from every purchase if you know where to look. 

Without further ado, let's talk strategy. 

What even determines the price of a strain or a cannabis product? You walk into a dispensary, and spot two strains with the same THC percentage, but—surprise—the price tags are miles apart. How come?  

​​The truth is that the price of cannabis is beyond THC, there are many other factors like terpenes, brand, cultivation, and other cannabinoids that play a role in it. Let's break things down. 

• How It’s Grown – Indoor-grown cannabis often costs more than outdoor or greenhouse-grown flower. Controlled environments help produce consistent potency, preserve terpenes, and maintain a premium appearance, which can drive up the price. 

• Brand & Reputation – Established brands with a strong track record of quality may have higher prices. Consistency, unique genetics, and trusted sourcing all add to brand value, but there are also smaller producers offering excellent products at more affordable prices. 

• Lab Testing & Processing – Every legal cannabis product goes through rigorous testing for potency, terpenes, and contaminants. These processes add to production costs but ensure safety and accurate labeling. 

• Packaging & Compliance – Cannabis packaging isn’t just about branding—strict regulations often require child-resistant, tamper-proof, and opaque containers, which can drive up costs. Some brands invest in high-end packaging for freshness and presentation, while others keep it minimal to reduce expenses. 

• Supply & Demand – Some strains are priced higher because of limited availability, exclusive genetics, or strong consumer demand. Meanwhile, widely available strains tend to be more budget-friendly. 

• Taxes – One of the biggest price factors is taxes, which vary by state. Some states have high excise taxes on recreational cannabis, while others keep costs lower. In many cases, medical cannabis is taxed at a lower rate than recreational cannabis. 

• Product Type & Grade – Cannabis comes in various forms, each with its own price range. Premium flower features large, well-trimmed buds that are rich in terpenes and cannabinoids, making it the priciest choice. Popcorn buds are smaller buds from the same plant, providing comparable potency at a more budget-friendly price. Shake is made up of small pieces of flower that fall off during processing—it's a more economical option and perfect for rolling joints or creating edibles. You can learn more about this in our recent Bud vs. Shake guide. 

Value Beyond THC: What Really Matters 

Chasing high THC percentages is one of the biggest mistakes budget-conscious shoppers make. More THC doesn’t automatically mean better quality or stronger effects. Here’s what really counts: 

• Terpenes Enhance the Experience – Cannabis terpenes contribute to a strain’s aroma, flavor, and overall character. They also play a role in the entourage effect, the idea that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to influence the experience. A strain with 20% THC and a rich terpene profile can sometimes feel more satisfying than one with 30% THC but with little aroma or complexity. 

• Cannabinoid Ratios Matter – THC isn’t the only cannabinoid worth considering. CBD, CBG, and CBN also contribute to effects, and a well-balanced strain may provide a smoother, longer-lasting experience than one with THC alone. 

• Quality Over Numbers – A strain that burns clean, smells fresh, and provides a consistent experience is worth more than one that’s harsh or unbalanced, no matter how high the THC percentage. 

Don't just look for THC when you shop. Ask about other cannabinoids and terpenes. You can get the most for your money if you know what you're doing. 

Spending less on cannabis doesn’t mean settling for lower quality. RISE makes it easy to find top-tier products at great prices—you just need to know where to look (psst, don’t worry, we’ll show you where). From bulk discounts to exclusive deals, there are plenty of ways to make your budget go further. 

Compare Prices 

You'll notice that pricing can differ quite a bit between brands, even when the products are pretty similar. Before you buy anything, it’s a good idea to check out online dispensary menus and compare the prices from different brands for your favorite products. Read the labels, learn more about the product you are planning to buy. You can compare prices on strains, concentrates, edibles, and vapes. Some brands go for affordability, while others charge more for premium genetics or small-batch cultivation. Checking out various options can really help you snag the best deal while still keeping quality in mind. 

Seasonal Promotions 

Certain times of the year bring some of the biggest cannabis discounts. Dispensaries often run limited-time promotions tied to special events, giving you the chance to save on your favorite products if you time your purchases right. Look for deals on 4/20, holidays like Christmas, Halloween, and Thanksgiving, special days like Friday the 13th, as well as seasonal promotions like Spring Cleaning deals. These can, of course, vary from dispensary to dispensary, but it won’t hurt to check and keep your finger on the pulse. 

Ask Questions 

Budtenders are one of the best resources in a dispensary, especially when you’re looking for quality products at a lower price. They know the inventory inside and out, and they can point you toward affordable options that still deliver great effects. If you’re on a budget, don’t hesitate to ask: 

• Are there any in-house brands or budget-friendly alternatives?  

• What’s on special that’s not on the main menu?  

• Which products have the best value for their price? 

A simple conversation could lead you to a great deal you wouldn’t have found on your own. 

Look for Bulk Options 

Buying cannabis in larger quantities can save you money in the long run. Many dispensaries offer price breaks when you purchase a quarter (7g), half-ounce (14g), or full ounce (28g) instead of smaller amounts. The cost per gram drops, meaning you’re getting more for your money. If you’re not ready to commit to a full ounce, look into: 

• Popcorn Buds (Smalls) – These are smaller buds from the same high-quality flower and are often priced lower than full-sized nugs. 

• Shake – This consists of small pieces of flower that break off during packaging. It’s great for rolling joints, making edibles, or topping off bowls at a lower cost. 

If you already know what strains you like, buying in bulk when there’s a sale can be one of the best ways to stretch your budget. P.S. Don’t forget to be mindful of the buying limits in your state. 

Find Deals on RISE 

Whether you're shopping online before heading to the dispensary or browsing in-store, RISE makes it easy to spot discounted products and special promotions. Here’s where to look for deals on https://risecannabis.com/.  

Use the “Filter & Sort” 

Instead of scrolling through the entire menu, https://risecannabis.com/ lets you filter products by deals, so you can instantly see what’s on sale. Here’s how to do it: 

1. Go to https://risecannabis.com/ and find your local dispensary by selecting your state and location from the top menu. 

2. Choose between Medical or Recreational menus depending on the availability in your state. 

3. Once on the menu page, click the “Filter & Sort” button—this will open a menu where you can select “Deals” to see discounted products only. 

This quick step helps you spot the best-priced options in seconds, making sure you never miss out on savings. 

Check the Specials Row 

Even if you don’t use the filters, RISE dispensary menus automatically highlight deals in the first row of the menu. This section features limited-time discounts, product bundles, and special promotions. Since these offers rotate frequently, checking this section each time you shop can help you grab the best prices before they’re gone. 

Go Straight to the RISE Deals Page 

Want to skip searching altogether? RISE has a dedicated Deals page where you can see all available discounts in your state. 

1. Go to https://risecannabis.com/ 

2. Click “Deals” under the “Shop” section in the top menu 

3. This will bring up all current promotions based on your location, so you can browse state-specific discounts in one place 

Seems easy enough, right?  

Discounts aren’t the only way to stretch your cannabis budget—choosing the right products can make just as much of a difference. Depending on what you’re looking for, you might find better value in places you hadn’t considered. For example, high-potency concentrates deliver stronger effects per dollar compared to flower, meaning you need less product to get the same results. Here are a few tops. 

Flower vs. Concentrates: More Potency, Less Product 

If you’re used to smoking flower, you might not think twice about grabbing an eighth. But if you’re looking to make your budget stretch, concentrates might be worth considering. They may cost more upfront, but with higher potency and less waste, they can actually last longer than flower. A single gram of concentrate usually contains 70-90% THC, while flower typically falls between 15-30%. That means: 

• A tiny dab can hit just as hard as multiple pulls from a joint or bowl—so you’re using less product to get the same effect. 

• Your stash lasts longer—if you’re a regular consumer, concentrates can help cut down on how often you need to restock. 

The main thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need a dab rig, vape pen, or e-rig to use concentrates. If you don’t already have one, that’s an extra cost—but once you’re set up, concentrates can be one of the best ways to get more out of every dollar you spend. 

Vapes: Convenience and Efficiency 

If you’re looking for an easy, low-maintenance way to make your cannabis last, vape cartridges are a solid option. They might cost more upfront, but they’re designed for efficiency, meaning you use less product while still getting consistent effects. One major advantage? No unnecessary waste. With flower, some cannabinoids and terpenes burn off before you even inhale—but vapes heat cannabis at controlled temperatures, so you get the most out of every hit. That means: 

• A 1g vape cartridge can last longer than an eighth (3.5g) of flower, especially with moderate use. 

• You’re only using what you need, since there’s no lingering smoke or lost product. 

For those who want a hassle-free, portable, and efficient way to consume cannabis, vapes offer a good balance between convenience and cost-effectiveness. 

Pre-Rolls: Affordable and Hassle-Free 

Rolling your own joints is usually the cheapest option, but not everyone has the time, patience, or skill to do it. That’s where pre-rolls come in—they’re convenient, ready to use, and can be a solid budget-friendly choice if you know what to look for. 

• Multi-pack pre-rolls often cost less per gram than buying loose flower, making them a great option for regular smokers. 

• Many pre-rolls are made with small buds or shake, meaning you get the same cannabinoids and terpenes at a lower price compared to full flower. 

• Infused pre-rolls (coated with kief or concentrate) pack a stronger punch, meaning you may need fewer hits to get the desired effect, making them last longer. 

If you’re looking for a grab-and-go option without the hassle of grinding or rolling, pre-rolls offer a quick, no-fuss way to enjoy cannabis without overspending. 

Multi-Dose Edibles: More Value Per Milligram 

If edibles are your go-to, multi-dose options can give you more for your money. While single-serving edibles may seem cheap, buying them individually adds up fast—whereas larger packs or high-potency products often cost less per milligram of THC. 

• A 100mg pack of edibles is usually more affordable per dose than buying multiple smaller servings. 

• Tinctures and capsules offer precise dosing and often come in higher-milligram bottles, so one purchase can last for weeks. 

• Edibles last longer than smoking or vaping, meaning you may need to consume less often, stretching your supply further. 

If you prefer a long-lasting, controlled experience, multi-dose edibles or tinctures can help you spend less while getting more out of each dose. 

Shake: Affordable and Versatile 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to whole buds, shake is worth considering. It’s made up of small pieces of flower that break off during handling and packaging, meaning you’re still getting the same strain—just in a looser, more compact form. 

• Great for joints, bowls, and edibles – Since shake is already broken down, it’s easy to roll, pack, or cook with. 

• Lower price, same cannabinoids – Shake is often priced significantly lower than standard flower while still delivering the same effects. 

• Premium shake options – Some dispensaries sell shake from top-shelf strains, giving you high-quality cannabis for a fraction of the cost. 

If you don’t mind a less structured form of flower, shake is a cost-effective way to stock up while getting the same potency as whole buds. 

Picking the right products helps you get more for your money without sacrificing quality. But saving doesn’t stop there. Proper storage and mindful consumption can make your stash last even longer. Up next, we’ll give more tips to extend the life of your cannabis.

To save on cannabis, you can adopt a few habits that help make your stash last longer. Here are a few things you can do: 

Store Products Properly 

The way you store cannabis directly affects its freshness, potency, and how long it lasts. Left exposed to air, light, and humidity, flower dries out, losing flavor and potency. If it’s too moist, it risks developing mold. The best way to keep flower fresh is to store it in an airtight glass jar, preferably in a cool, dark place. Avoid plastic bags or containers, which create static that pulls away valuable trichomes. 

Concentrates also need proper storage to prevent degradation. Wax, shatter, and live resin can dry out or lose potency if left exposed to air. Keeping them sealed in silicone or glass containers, stored away from heat and sunlight, helps maintain their texture and strength. Small adjustments in storage can mean less waste and more effective sessions. 

DIY Edibles: Get More from Leftovers 

If you’ve got leftover shake or stems, don’t throw them away—they can be put to good use. Shake works especially well for making edibles, as it’s already broken down and ready for infusion. Before using it in infused recipes, it needs to be decarboxylated. If you don’t kow how to do that, we got a guide on decarbing cannabis just for you.  

Use Proper Equipment 

The right tools can make a difference in how efficiently cannabis burns or vaporizes, helping you use less while still getting the same effects. A good grinder ensures an even burn, preventing wasted flower that turns to ash too quickly. Packing bowls lightly instead of stuffing them too tightly helps air flow properly, allowing for an even burn. Keeping pipes, bongs, and vapes clean also plays a role—resin buildup can clog airflow, forcing you to use more cannabis to get the same hit. Making these small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in how far your stash goes. 

Microdosing: Use Less, Feel More 

Taking large hits or high doses might seem like the best way to get the most out of your cannabis, but smaller, controlled doses can actually be more effective. Microdosing allows you to feel the effects without using more than necessary. 

For edibles, starting with a low dose helps gauge how much is actually needed. Since edibles take longer to kick in, waiting before taking another dose prevents overconsumption. When vaping or smoking, taking a single small inhale and waiting a few minutes before continuing can help maintain effects while using less. 

Using smaller amounts more intentionally makes cannabis last longer while still providing the desired results. 

Mix and Match: Stretch Your Stash 

Mixing premium products with more affordable options helps balance cost without losing quality. Adding shake to premium flower when rolling joints or packing bowls can make a strain last longer without much difference in effect. 

Combining flower with concentrates is another way to increase potency without using as much product. A small amount of wax or kief sprinkled onto a bowl or joint enhances strength, meaning fewer hits are needed. Alternating between high-THC strains and milder options also helps slow down tolerance buildup, making effects last longer without increasing consumption. 

Next, we’ll explore how RISE can help you save even more with deals, loyalty programs, and exclusive discounts.

We gave you all the tools to shop smarter and save on cannabis without compromising on quality, the rest is up to you, visit your local RISE dispensary and see which of these tips works for you. Good shopping!