New Buffalo Township Solidifies Status as Midwest Cannabis Capital

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New Buffalo Township in Michigan has solidified its status as the Midwest's busiest cannabis hub, with nearly 30 retail cannabis outlets now operating in the community. The township's location just off I-94 near the Michigan-Indiana border continues to make it a popular destination for out-of-state buyers seeking lower prices and wider availability than they can find closer to home, where cannabis remains illegal. This growth is translating into significant tax revenue for the township, but also increased scrutiny from residents concerned about issues like traffic congestion and the growing number of dispensaries.

Why it matters

New Buffalo Township's emergence as a regional cannabis hub highlights the continued growth and economic impact of the industry in Michigan, which is providing tens of millions in tax revenue to local governments and funding for schools and infrastructure. However, the concentration of dispensaries in the township is also raising quality-of-life concerns for residents, underscoring the need for careful planning and oversight as the industry continues to expand.

The details

New Buffalo Township now hosts nearly 30 retail cannabis outlets, an unusually high number for a community its size. Its location just off I-94 at Exit 1 and within easy reach of Chicago and northern Indiana continues to make it a destination for out-of-state buyers seeking lower prices and wider availability than they'll find closer to home, where cannabis remains illegal. The township received about $1.4 million in state cannabis excise tax revenue tied to 2025 sales, reflecting Michigan's formula that distributes roughly $54,000 per licensed retailer to local communities. Statewide, marijuana tax revenue remains a major funding source, delivering tens of millions of dollars annually to local governments, along with more than $100 million each for schools and transportation.

• New Buffalo Township has seen a rapid increase in the number of cannabis dispensaries over the past several years.
• The township received about $1.4 million in state cannabis excise tax revenue tied to 2025 sales.

What’s next

Township officials have begun addressing some of the concerns raised by residents, including stepping up oversight of operations and discussing infrastructure needs tied to the continued growth of the cannabis industry in the area.