Alcohol Consumption Hits Historic Low in US, Gallup Poll Finds

A new Gallup poll found that only 54% of American adults consume alcohol, the lowest level in 86 years and a 13-point drop from three years ago. This trend suggests that more Americans are perceiving alcohol as unhealthy.

A new Gallup poll has revealed that only 54% of American adults consume alcohol, marking the lowest level in 86 years and a significant 13-point drop from three years ago. This trend underscores a growing perception among Americans that alcohol is unhealthy.

The poll, conducted in July 2025, shows that 54% of U.S. adults reported drinking alcohol, compared to 58% in 2024 and 62% in 2023. This decline is particularly notable among young adults, who now have a drinking rate slightly below that of middle-aged and older adults [2].

The shift in public opinion is driven by an increasing belief that even moderate alcohol consumption is harmful to health. A record high of 53% of U.S. adults now say moderate drinking is bad for their health, up from 28% in 2015 [2]. This sentiment is particularly strong among younger adults, with 66% of those aged 18-34 believing moderate drinking is unhealthy [2].

The federal government is also contributing to this shift by updating dietary guidelines to reflect the latest scientific evidence on alcohol's health risks. The outgoing U.S. surgeon general, Vivek Murthy, recommended that alcohol bottles include a clear warning about the link between alcohol consumption and cancer [2].

The decline in alcohol consumption is not due to a shift to other mood-altering substances like recreational marijuana, which has remained relatively steady over the past four years [1]. Instead, it reflects a growing health consciousness among Americans.

The impact of this trend is already being felt by the alcohol industry. U.S. firms like Constellation Brands (STZ) and The Boston Beer Company (SAM) have seen their shares slide by over 20% this year [1]. Major foreign liquor companies, such as Diageo (DEO), are also under pressure, with U.S.-listed shares down 11% year-to-date [1].

Investors in the alcohol sector should closely monitor this trend, as it suggests a long-term shift in consumer behavior. The Gallup poll indicates that the decline in alcohol consumption is not a temporary phenomenon but a persistent trend driven by changing health perceptions.

References:
[1] https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/american-spirits-losing-their-buzz-us-alcohol-drinking-hits-record-low-booze-stocks-are-already-feeling-the-pain/chsRaTIRdaZ
[2] https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/adults-drink-alcohol-record-low-new-poll-decline/