Across America, more people are turning to e-cigarettes and vaping. But some states are embracing the trend far more than others. According to a recent study by Forbes Advisor, usage is highest in the South, with Tennessee leading the pack.
The study analyzed vaping habits state-by-state, looking at the percentage of adults who vape daily, who vape occasionally, and the growth rate over recent years. Based on these metrics, Tennessee earned a perfect score of 100, making it America’s top vaping state.
Southern States Dominate Top 10 Vaping Locations
Seven of the top 10 states for vaping are in the South, including:
- Tennessee
- Kentucky
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Alabama
- Louisiana
- West Virginia
Other states rounding out the top 10 are Idaho, North Dakota, and Hawaii.
This concentration of vaping in the South contrasts sharply with low usage on the coasts. States like Maryland, Illinois, and Massachusetts scored near the bottom for vaping rates.
Young Adults Vape the Most
While vaping has grown across demographics, it remains most popular among young adults ages 18-24. According to CDC data, 11% of males and 10.3% of females currently vape nationwide. But usage declines among older groups.
Vaping rates also tend to be higher among men than women, though the gap is narrowing over time.
Vaping Regulations Vary Wildly
When it comes to vaping laws, states run the gamut from highly restrictive to laissez-faire. Indiana has implemented 12 vaping restrictions aimed at limiting youth access. Meanwhile, Arizona and Nevada each have only 2 such regulations in place.
This patchwork of laws allows vaping culture to thrive in some areas while facing opposition in others. But as health concerns over e-cigarettes continue mounting, additional oversight seems likely in states with minimal current laws.
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