Young Professionals Ditch Bars for Health-Focused Networking

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A growing number of young professionals, particularly in the tech industry, are rejecting traditional bar-based networking in favor of more health-focused social activities. Driven by factors like grueling work schedules, broader wellness trends, and high-profile teetotaler role models, these workers are embracing activities like exercise classes, social saunas, and other sweat-inducing gatherings to connect with peers.

Why it matters

This shift away from alcohol-centric networking reflects broader cultural changes, including growing concerns about the health impacts of moderate drinking and the influence of government policies and prominent figures who have embraced sobriety. It also highlights how workplace culture in industries like tech is evolving to prioritize wellness alongside productivity.

The details

Per a 2025 Gallup survey, for the first time on record, more than half of Americans say moderate drinking is unhealthy, up from 45% in 2024. This has contributed to the rise of 'social saunas' and other sweat-focused gathering spaces that are replacing traditional bars and happy hours among young professionals, especially in tech hubs like New York and San Francisco. Prominent teetotalers like Bryan Johnson, Joe Rogan, Warren Buffett, and Marc Andreessen have also inspired some entrepreneurs to put down the beer and focus on building their companies.

• In 2025, the former US Surgeon General called for cigarette-like warnings on alcohol.
• In 2025, the new MAHA-inspired food pyramid softened alcohol guidance from 1-2 drinks per day to 'less alcohol'.