Cocaine was once known as the “rich man’s drug,” but this isn’t the case today. In fact, cocaine prices in the U.S. have barely moved for decades. While cocaine remains expensive, the image it once had of being only for the rich is long gone.
Despite its potentially dangerous effects, cocaine is still widely used by millions of people. Here in Arizona, 2 percent of the population reported using cocaine in the past year. The substance is most prevalent among young adults aged 18-25.
If you know someone who is using cocaine, you might be wondering how they can afford this habit. Let’s explore the question of, “How much does cocaine cost?” and take a look at what people are paying for this substance.
How Much Does Coke Cost?
The price of cocaine varies based on different factors, including location, purity, and demand. An average user might spend $60 to $200 per gram, making cocaine an expensive habit. The high cost of cocaine is one of the reasons why people sometimes switch to cheaper alternatives like crack, a freebase form of cocaine that can be smoked.
The Different Prices of Cocaine
Several agencies track the cost of cocaine use and pricing, including the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. This data enables policymakers, law enforcement officials, and others to examine drug prices relative to other market dynamics that impact the illegal drug trade. Typically, drug prices and availability tend to correlate with one another, but there are many other variables at play, including purity, potency, location, and supply and demand. Both the DEA and UN Office on Drugs and Crime adjust their numbers for purity and inflation.
The Price of Cocaine by Weight
Cocaine is commonly sold in grams, though it can be sold in larger quantities like ounces and kilograms, especially in higher-level trafficking operations. However, for street-level sales, grams are the most common measurement. Grams have a more affordable price point compared to larger quantities, and they accommodate casual users who may not want or need larger amounts. When adjusted for inflation and purity, a gram of cocaine costs around $150.
The Price of Cocaine by Type
The type or portion of cocaine can also influence the pricing structure. Since cocaine is based on weight, larger quantities will cost more. For instance, a “bump” of cocaine is usually a single hit for one person. It’s such a small amount that the cost isn’t very high. In fact, it’s not uncommon for dealers to give a bump of cocaine to someone so they can test the quality before buying. An 8-ball of cocaine is a lot more, roughly one-eighth of an ounce, or 3.5 grams. Average prices range between $120 and $300.
The Price Difference Between Crack and Pure Cocaine
Crack is typically cheaper than pure cocaine because it is made from powdered cocaine and then mixed with water and ammonia or sodium bicarbonate. While both cocaine and crack are essentially chemically identical, crack has the hydrochloride salt removed. Therefore, the crack is more concentrated and can be smoked. Like cocaine, the cost of crack depends on various factors, such as location, purity, and market conditions. The average cost of crack is around $60 to $100. Prices tend to be lower when the crack is of lower quality, mixed with other substances, or when located in an area closer to a supply center.
How Much Does Cocaine Cost on the Street?
Because cocaine is an illegal substance, people who use it have to buy it “on the street.” It’s important to know that buying anything on the street can be dangerous as you don’t know what’s in the substance. Cocaine is generally sold in one of three ways:
How Much Is a Gram of Cocaine?
The street price for a gram of cocaine in the U.S. ranges between $60 and $200, though most people report paying around $150 per pure gram. Generally speaking, the purer the cocaine and the higher the demand, the more it will cost.
How Much Is an Ounce of Cocaine?
The cost of an ounce (28 grams) of cocaine ranges from $1,100 to $2,000. Since an ounce of cocaine is a lot, it’s typically purchased by dealers and others looking to sell the substance.
How Much Is an 8-Ball of Cocaine?
An 8-ball of cocaine is roughly an eighth of an ounce or 3.5 grams. This means that there are eight 8-balls in an ounce of cocaine. 8-balls are popular among recreational and regular users because they can get standard quality cocaine at a slightly less price compared to per-gram pricing. The average cost for an 8-ball is around $120 and $300.
Factors That Can Impact the Price of Cocaine
As previously mentioned, the price of cocaine is dependent on several different factors. These include:
Purity
- Higher purity. Cocaine with higher purity costs more because it produces a stronger effect and requires less to experience a high. Purity levels vary depending on where the cocaine is coming from and the amount of cutting agents used.
- Cutting agents. Dealers will often mix cocaine with other substances to increase its volume and profits. Popular cutting agents include baking soda, talcum powder, and boric acid. The more diluted the cocaine, the lower the price.
Location
- Proximity to source. Like other drugs, cocaine is cheaper when it’s closest to its source. As it moves through the distribution chain and further out, the price increases to cover transportation and other risks.
- Urban vs rural. Prices are generally more expensive in rural areas because the substance is less available and more transportation is needed. Areas that are closer to distribution hubs often see cheaper prices.
Supply and Demand
- High demand. Areas with a higher demand for cocaine typically see higher prices, especially if supply is limited. Conversely, in regions where cocaine is not in demand, prices may be lower to attract more buyers.
- Supply disruptions. Factors such as increased law enforcement, successful interdiction efforts, or geopolitical issues can disrupt supply chains, causing prices to increase.
Law Enforcement and Legal Risks
- Increased Enforcement. Stronger law enforcement efforts and harsher penalties can drive up prices by increasing the risk for dealers and traffickers. This includes more frequent seizures and arrests, which disrupt supply and increase costs for those involved in the trade.
- Legal Risks. Areas with stricter drug laws and higher legal risks will generally see higher prices as dealers compensate for the increased danger of operating in those regions.
Treatment Options for Cocaine Addiction in Prescott, AZ
The first step in the cocaine addiction recovery process is typically supervised withdrawal from cocaine. Medical professionals can provide support to manage symptoms, which most commonly include fatigue, depression, and severe cravings. Once this part of the process is complete, you are ready to start therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you recognize, avoid, and cope with situations that might lead to cocaine use, while motivational interviewing can help resolve ambivalence about quitting cocaine.
There are no FDA-approved medications that treat cocaine use disorder, but medications may be prescribed to treat withdrawal symptoms and co-occurring conditions. For instance, antidepressants can manage depressive symptoms associated with cocaine withdrawal. Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous can also be helpful in providing peer support through regular meetings and a structured program.
Wolf Creek Recovery treats cocaine use disorders using evidence-based therapies and holistic practices. We are conveniently located in the valley between the Bradshaw and Mingus Mountains—remote, but beautiful. It’s the perfect place for healing! We offer many opportunities to be outdoors in the sun with outdoor and recreational therapy, complementing our behavioral therapies. To start your recovery from cocaine use, contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love!
