If you've noticed rising e-cigarette usage lately, you likely reside in a state favoring vapes. Tennessee clinched the top spot for most vape usage nationwide according to a 2024 analysis.
The report uncovered intriguing regional and demographic trends surrounding vaping's growth.
Southern States Lead in Vaping Popularity
The study ranked all 50 states and Washington D.C. based on metrics like daily vaping rates. Tennessee scored an impressive 100 to secure the #1 position.
In fact, seven southern states filled the top 10 thanks to growing vape adoption:
- Tennessee
- Kentucky
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Alabama
- Louisiana
- West Virginia
Conversely, Maryland scored the lowest at 0 based on minimal vaping. Other infrequent vaping states include Illinois, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Delaware.
So the south has firmly embraced vaping the most, especially among younger generations.
Vapes Attract Younger Users
While still trailing cigarette usage, vapes increased most significantly among 18-24 year olds over the last six years.
11% of young adults vaped in 2021, almost double the rate of 25-44 year olds. So vaping holds strong appeal among Gen Z and younger millennials.
But gender-wise, vaping rates aligned closer between males (11.6%) and females (10.3%).
Among the 18-24 age bracket, North Dakota scored 100 for maximum youth vaping. Wyoming and Tennessee placed second and third.
So vapes' popularity concentrates highest in southern states and amongst younger audiences.
State Regulations Impact Youth Access
With concerns over teen usage, states instituted vape regulations limiting access. Indiana implemented the most vaping restrictions at 12, spanning online sales bans, retail licensing and fines for underage sales.
Conversely, Arizona and Nevada share the least protections at only 2 apiece. Education and smoking age requirements represent their sole barriers.
Ultimately, youth vaping trends trace back to a mix of cultural appeal and regulation enforcement. Southern small-town living could enable more discreet usage while rural states like Indiana responded strongly to curb early adoption.
But the numbers prove vaping continues rising in popularity across age groups nationwide, just at varying rates depending on your state.
