US Alcohol Consumption Rates Declined From 2022 to 2024

While younger generations cut back, adults aged 50 to 64 saw rising rates of heavy alcohol use.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring two crystal glasses, one empty and one partially filled, symbolizing divergent health trends. — New survey data shows that US alcohol consumption decreased overall between 2022 and 2024, despite a significant uptick in heavy drinking among adults aged 50 to 64. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you feel that social norms around alcohol consumption are becoming healthier for your household?

Alcohol consumption among US adults fell between 2022 and 2024, with decreases in both the share of adults who drank and those who consumed alcohol heavily. These national findings highlight distinct shifts in drinking behaviors across different age groups since the pandemic era.

Why it matters

These trends show that while many adults are moving away from alcohol, specific age populations face increasing health risks related to higher consumption. Understanding these demographic shifts is essential for identifying where public health interventions may be most needed.

Researchers analyzed cross-sectional data from more than 114,000 participants in the National Health Interview Survey. The results show a 2% decline in any alcohol use and an 8% drop in heavy drinking from 2022 to 2024, though overall use remains higher than 2018 levels.

The details

The study utilized large-scale survey data to track population-level habits over a six-year period. It revealed that Gen Z experienced a 5% drop in alcohol use, while millennials significantly reduced heavy drinking. Conversely, those aged 50 to 64 bucked the national trend, seeing a 4% increase in any drinking and a 36% jump in heavy alcohol use since 2018.

2018 served as the baseline for alcohol use rates.
2020 marked a notable surge in alcohol consumption across the country.
2022-2024 saw a general decline in alcohol use among US adults.
Monday marked the date the study was published.

Health Landscape

This research contributes to the long-term data collected by the National Health Interview Survey to map public health trends. It updates the understanding of how US adult drinking habits have shifted in the wake of the 2020 pandemic surge.

If you are concerned about your own alcohol intake or that of a family member, these shifting trends are worth discussing with your doctor to assess personal risk. Primary care providers can offer screenings to evaluate how your current habits compare to long-term health guidelines.

The takeaway

The latest national data indicates that while many Americans are reducing their alcohol consumption, older adults in the 50 to 64 age bracket are seeing a significant increase in heavy drinking. Patients should feel comfortable asking their primary care physician about alcohol-related health risks.