U.S. Alcohol Consumption Falls to Historic Low in 2025

Alcohol consumption in the United States has hit its lowest levels in nearly a century. The data was collected in a Gallup poll, and shows just 54% of adults reporting that they drink. Sociologists say it reflects a huge cultural shift from the decade-long norm of 60% reporting they drink. It also tracked a shift in lower substance use among Americans.

Here’s how Gallup says the numbers break down among various groups and demographics:

Gender:

• • Women have seen an 11% drop in drinking rates since 2023.
  • Men have experienced a 5% decline over the same period.

Race:

• • White adults: 11% drop in drinking rates since 2023.
  • Adults of color: 2% drop.

Income:

• • Those earning less than $40,000 a year: 14% drop in drinking rates.
  • Those earning $100,000 or more: 13% drop.
  • Middle-income earners ($40,000–$99,999): 4% drop.

Age:

• • Adults ages 18-34: 9% decline.
  • Adults ages 35-54: 10% decline.
  • Adults 55 and older: 5% decline.

Political Affiliation:

• • Republicans: 19% drop in drinking rates.
  • Independents: 6% drop.
  • Democrats: 3% drop.

General Trends:

• • Younger generations are giving up drinking the fastest. Just 50% of Americans ages 18 to 34 reported drinking alcohol, compared to 56% of adults 35 and older.
  • The all-time high was 71% between 1976 and 1978 (USA Today).
  • The Monitoring the Future survey shows a steady decline in alcohol use among students and young adults since the 1970s.

Experts say that health concerns, shifting social norms, and a growing trend toward sobriety and moderation—especially among younger people—are fueling this sharp decline. Gallup’s data also suggest Americans are more concerned about the health risks of alcohol than in previous years, including links to cancer and mental health issues, according to PBS NewsHour.

Recent news reports say that the bars and other establishments that cater heavily to alcohol consumption are worried about the future.

–Dwight Widaman