As we step into the new year, some Americans are considering changes to their drinking habits. A July 2023 Gallup survey reveals that 62% of U.S. adults drink alcohol, while 38% choose not to. This marks a change from the late 1970s when 71% of adults reported consuming alcohol. Adults aged 35 to 54, those with a college degree, higher-income individuals, and those attending church less frequently are more likely to drink. In 2021, the average person aged 21 or older consumed about 603 “standard drinks.” The type of alcohol consumed has also shifted, with less beer and more wine being consumed since 1970. Surprisingly, young adults today are less likely to drink compared to two decades ago, while older adults are more likely to do so. According to the University of Michigan’s Monitoring the Future survey, underage drinking among U.S. teens has declined over the last 20 years. As Generation Z comes of age, they’re changing how we think about drinking. About 84% of Gen Z buy alcohol, while it’s 90% of Millennials. In the past year, Gen Z and Millennials have contributed to the growth of Dry January, where people take a break from alcohol. According to Red Peg, participation has increased from 13% to 19% of adults. Within this group, half plan to completely avoid alcohol during January, and the other half aim to reduce their drinking. The similar attitude towards alcohol drinking has propelled the Zero Proof Movement which means that you don’t need alcohol to have a great time. This has motivated the opening of non-alcoholic bars or sober bars across the country. Does it also mean the LGBTQ+ future generation will consume less alcohol than us?
