U.S. Drinking Rate in 2025 Hits Lowest Level Since 1939
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The percentage of Americans who drink alcohol has fallen to its lowest point since Gallup began tracking it in 1939. This marks the third consecutive year of decline, with significant drops among women, young adults, and registered Republicans. Public perception has shifted sharply, with a majority now believing moderate drinking is unhealthy.
Facts First
- The U.S. drinking rate in 2025 is the lowest recorded since Gallup started tracking in 1939.
- The rate has declined for three consecutive years, with 54% of Americans reporting they drink.
- Public belief that moderate drinking is unhealthy has nearly doubled since 2018, rising from 28% to 53%.
- Significant declines were seen among women, young adults, and registered Republicans, with the latter group's rate falling 19% since 2023.
- The average number of drinks consumed weekly is 2.8, the lowest figure recorded since 1996.
What Happened
Gallup reported that the U.S. drinking rate in 2025 is the lowest it has been since 1939. The 54% figure for 2025 represents the third consecutive year of declines. The drinking rate among women fell 11% since 2023 to 51%, and the rate among young adults fell 9% to 50%. The largest percentage declines were observed among individuals making less than $40,000 per year and registered Republicans, with the latter group's rate falling 19% since 2023.
Why this Matters to You
Shifting social norms around alcohol could affect your social gatherings, workplace culture, and the products available at stores and restaurants. Updated health recommendations now suggest any amount of alcohol may negatively affect health, which may influence your personal health choices, especially if you manage a chronic condition. With fewer people drinking, you might find a wider selection of non-alcoholic beverage options. The trend appears to be driven by a significant change in public perception; in 2025, 53% of Americans reported that drinking in moderation is bad for one's health, compared to just 28% in 2018.
What's Next
The trend of declining alcohol consumption is likely to continue if current perceptions hold. Beverage companies and the hospitality industry may accelerate their development and marketing of non-alcoholic alternatives to meet changing consumer demand. Public health messaging could increasingly focus on the risks of alcohol, particularly for the nearly one-third of U.S. adults living with multiple chronic diseases, as alcohol can aggravate such conditions.