Gen Z Drinks Less Alcohol Than Any Other Adult Generation

Gen Z is drinking less alcohol than any previous adult generation, reflecting a shift that has been building over the past twenty years. In the U.S., Gallup data reveals that only about 62% of adults under the age of 35 currently consume alcohol, a noticeable drop from roughly 72% in the early 2000s. Surveys indicate that more members of Gen Z are either abstaining from alcohol entirely or choosing to drink in moderation. This change is largely driven by growing health consciousness, the influence of a socially mindful and image-aware culture shaped by social media, and the increasing popularity of the sober-curious movement. Experts also highlight a decline in traditional social gatherings, the rise of wellness-centered hangout spots, and the emergence of sober bars as key factors contributing to this generational shift in drinking habits.