Want to learn how much is a dub before purchasing?
If you’ve ever heard someone mention a “dub sack” and wondered what they were talking about, you’re not alone. The term “dub” is one of the oldest and most recognizable pieces of cannabis slang or a phrase that stuck around long before dispensaries, online menus, or THC percentages became part of everyday conversations.
In simple terms, a dub refers to $20 worth of weed. But depending on where you buy and what you buy, that $20 can look a little different. From the type of cannabis product to local tax rates, the modern dub has evolved from its street roots into a flexible reference for small, entry-level purchases.
Interestingly, cannabis prices have shifted dramatically in the past few years. According to Headset’s 2024 California Retail Data Report, the average price per gram of cannabis flower has dropped by more than 25% since 2020.
What Does “Dub of Weed” Mean?
The word “dub” originally came from street slang meaning “double ten,” or $20 worth of something. In this case, cannabis. During the 1990s and early 2000s, “dub sack” was the standard way people described a small bag of weed that cost twenty bucks.
Before legalization, measurements weren’t always precise. One dealer’s “dub” might be a gram; another’s could be 1.5 grams. But everyone agreed that a dub meant a small, affordable amount, enough for a couple of joints or a few bowls.
Today, you won’t find “dub sacks” on dispensary menus, but the term still carries cultural weight. It represents the era before legalization and reminds us of how cannabis communities adapted their own language long before standardization.
Fun Fact: Many linguists believe “dub” first became popular through hip-hop. With early 2000s artists referencing “dub sacks” in lyrics as a symbol of chill, everyday weed culture.
How Much Weed Is in a Dub Today?
So, how much weed does $20 really buy in today’s regulated market?
In most California dispensaries, a dub typically translates to 1–1.5 grams of cannabis flower, depending on the strain and brand. While old-school slang focused on dollar value, modern dispensaries price cannabis by weight and quality.
Here’s what you can expect for around $20:
- 1 gram of top-shelf flower
- 1 premium pre-roll
- 2–3 small edibles (10mg each)
- A budget-friendly half-gram vape cartridge
It’s also worth noting that cannabis pricing includes taxes, local delivery fees, and product-specific premiums. What’s consistent is that the “dub” remains the go-to term for a small, simple purchase.
Price of a Dub: Why It Can Vary by Location
While “dub” technically means $20 worth, what you actually receive can vary widely depending on where you live.
Here’s why:
- Local Taxes: Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles often impose higher cannabis taxes, pushing prices upward by 15–25% compared to rural areas.
- Market Competition: In regions with multiple dispensaries and delivery options (like Sacramento or Roseville), prices tend to stay lower due to healthy competition.
- Product Availability: Some smaller towns or counties restrict cannabis delivery, which can raise the baseline cost of flower and edibles.
At NorCal Holistics, a weed delivery Sacramento, we keep pricing simple and transparent across all delivery zones. That means your $20 still buys the same high-quality experience, no matter your zip code.
Does Quality Influence the Price of a Dub?
Absolutely. Quality, as defined by THC potency, cultivation method, and brand reputation, directly affects how much product fits into your dub.
For example:
- Indoor-grown flower typically costs more due to controlled environments and premium potency.
- Outdoor or greenhouse-grown flower is often cheaper, but can still deliver great effects.
- Top-tier brands like Alien Labs or Cannabiotix carry higher prices because of their craft genetics and reputation for consistency.
So, while $20 might buy 1.5 grams of mid-grade weed, that same amount could get you just 1 gram of top-shelf. Stronger, cleaner, and often richer in terpene flavor.
Dub Bag vs. Dime Bag: Understanding the Difference
Two of the most common weed slang terms, dime and dub, can get confusing, especially for new consumers. Here’s the breakdown:
| Term | Approx. Weight | Typical Cost | Common Use |
| Dime Bag | 0.5–1 gram | $10 | Quick smoke, entry-level purchase |
| Dub Bag | 1–1.5 grams | $20 | Standard small stash |
| Eighth | 3.5 grams | $30–$50 | Regular consumer amount |
Essentially, a dub is double a dime, making it one of the most common purchase sizes before legalization. While today’s dispensaries label products precisely in grams or eighths, customers often still refer to small buys as “dubs.”
Knowing this terminology is helpful. It bridges the gap between old-school culture and modern retail cannabis.
Why Knowing Your Terms Helps You Make Informed Decisions
Understanding cannabis terminology is about making smarter buying decisions. When you know what a dub, dime, or eighth means, you can quickly compare prices, evaluate deals, and understand how much product you’re actually getting.
This knowledge helps you:
- Avoid overpaying for low-quality products.
- Choose the right amount based on your tolerance and consumption habits.
- Spot real deals like NorCal Holistics’ bundle offers, where you can save by combining multiple grams or pre-rolls.
NorCal Holistics menu clearly lists weight, price, THC %, and strain details so you can shop confidently.
What to Expect When Buying a Dub Sack
A dub sack might seem simple, but it’s a timeless piece of cannabis history. One that’s still relevant in today’s legal marketplace. In short:
- A dub equals $20 worth of weed, usually around 1 gram.
- The amount varies based on quality, taxes, and region.
- Higher-end flower means slightly less product but stronger potency.
- And most importantly, buying from a licensed delivery service like NorCal Holistics ensures safety, lab-tested quality, and consistent pricing.
Whether you’re picking up your first gram or restocking your favorites, NorCal Holistics keeps every dub simple, straightforward, and reliable. Just the way it should be.
Ready to see what a dub can get you today? Browse NorCal Holistics’ menu and explore premium California cannabis, delivered directly to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weed is in a dub?
A: About 1–1.5 grams, depending on the strain and quality. In California dispensaries, $20 typically buys around one gram of premium flower or slightly more of mid-grade.
What’s the difference between a dub and a dime bag?
A dime is $10 worth of weed (about 0.5–1 gram), while a dub is $20 worth (about 1–1.5 grams). Think of a dub as double a dime. It’s the next step up in quantity and price.
Can I still buy a dub legally?
Yes! Although dispensaries now sell by exact weight (grams, eighths, etc.), a $20 purchase is still considered a “dub” in casual terms. It’s a popular option for small, affordable orders.
Does the type of cannabis affect how much you get in a dub?
Definitely. Higher-potency or indoor-grown flower often costs more, meaning your $20 may buy a smaller weight compared to outdoor or budget strains. However, premium cannabis offers stronger effects and better flavor per gram.
Is buying a dub from a dispensary better than street prices?
Absolutely. Licensed dispensaries and delivery services like NorCal Holistics guarantee lab-tested, contaminant-free cannabis with consistent THC labeling. Street weed may be cheaper, but it carries risks like inaccurate dosing or unsafe cultivation practices.
