U.S. alcohol consumption declines, but young adults still drink 15% more

A study published Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine shows that Americans are drinking less for the first time since the pandemic, but overall alcohol consumption still exceeds levels recorded before 2020. Researchers analyzed national survey data from 2022‑2023 and found a modest decline in average drinks per week compared with the 2021 peak, yet the average remains about 15 percent higher than in 2019. The findings come as public‑health officials track the lingering effects of a pandemic‑driven surge in drinking.

The pandemic sparked a sharp rise in alcohol use as people faced isolation, job loss, and anxiety. Retail sales of spirits, wine and beer jumped 25 percent in 2020, according to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. Health experts warned that the spike could translate into higher rates of liver disease, mental‑health disorders and accidents. The new data suggest that the worst of the surge may be easing, but the habit has not fully receded, keeping the nation at risk for long‑term health costs.

The study highlights stark differences across age groups. Adults aged 21‑34 still report the highest weekly intake, averaging 12 drinks, while those 55 and older have cut back to roughly eight drinks per week. College‑aged respondents showed the biggest drop, shedding about three drinks per week since the 2021 high. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) echoed the concern, noting that alcohol‑related hospitalizations remain 20 percent above pre‑pandemic levels. Public‑health groups praised the slowdown but urged continued monitoring and targeted outreach for younger adults who continue to drink heavily.

Experts say the next steps involve bolstering prevention programs and expanding access to treatment. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism plans to fund more community‑based counseling and to launch campaigns aimed at reducing binge drinking among millennials. Legislators are also considering tighter regulations on alcohol advertising on digital platforms. If the downward trend holds, it could ease pressure on the health system, but sustained effort will be needed to bring consumption back to truly pre‑COVID norms.