Americans Are Drinking Less as Health Concerns Rise

For the first time in nearly a century, fewer than six in ten U.S. adults report drinking alcohol—a sign of a notable shift in American habits. According to Gallup’s latest Consumption Habits survey, conducted in July 2025, just 54% of adults report consuming alcohol—the lowest rate recorded in Gallup’s 90-year trend. This survey shows that concerns about the health effects of alcohol are influencing choices, with more people questioning whether even moderate drinking is truly safe.

A Cultural Shift in Drinking

For decades, alcohol was a normal part of social life, and moderate consumption was even thought to offer health benefits, particularly for the heart. Today, that perception is changing. Growing research suggests that any level of alcohol may carry risks, and Americans are taking notice.

Younger adults, in particular, are leading the change. Many are choosing to abstain or drink less, influenced by a broader culture of health consciousness and wellness. Women are slightly more likely than men to view alcohol as unhealthy, and concern crosses political lines, reflecting a wider societal reevaluation of alcohol’s role.

Drinking Less, Even Among Drinkers

Even those who still enjoy a drink are doing so more moderately. People are spacing out their drinking, limiting weekly consumption, and often choosing to skip alcohol for several days at a time. The trend shows that the decline isn’t just about who drinks, but how they drink.

Preferences are also shifting. Beer remains popular, particularly among men, while women and older adults often gravitate toward wine. But overall, the emphasis seems to be on moderation and making mindful choices about alcohol.

Looking Ahead

Americans’ drinking habits are clearly evolving. After decades of relative stability, alcohol consumption has declined steadily, driven by new health research and changing attitudes. Young adults were early adopters of this trend, but older generations are catching up, embracing moderation or abstinence as a health-conscious choice.

As awareness grows and research continues to highlight potential risks, American alcohol culture may be entering a new era—one that prioritizes well-being over tradition.

Choose a Healthier Future:

Help is available if you rely on alcohol and worry about its impact on your physical or mental health. R&A Therapeutic Partners offers recovery coaching and monitoring to help you deal with the temptations and obstacles that may impede your progress. Our personalized strategies empower you to establish new routines, reinforcing your new, alcohol-free lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about these tools and resources. 

At R&A Therapeutic Partners, Raymond Estefania and Ana Moreno specialize in substance use and mental health disorder evaluations, treatment, intervention, and therapeutic/educational consulting for clients throughout the greater South Florida area, as well as nationally and internationally. For more resources and information, please visit Therapeutic-Partners.com or on Facebook.

At R&A Therapeutic Partners Raymond Estefania and Ana Moreno specialize in substance use and mental health disorder evaluations, treatment, intervention and therapeutic/educational consulting for clients throughout the greater South Florida area, as well as nationally and internationally. For more resources and information please visit Therapeutic-Partners.com or on Facebook.