Gen Zers Drinking Less Than Previous Generations

Changing social habits, financial constraints, and health concerns drive decline in alcohol consumption among younger adults

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:07pm

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A new report finds that only 62% of those under 35 years old drink alcohol, down from 72% two decades ago. Experts cite various reasons for this trend, including more recreational drug use, the rise of single-serving alcoholic beverages, financial constraints, and a greater focus on health and wellness among Gen Zers. Additionally, this generation socializes differently, preferring activities like video games and movie nights over traditional bar-going.

Why it matters

The decline in alcohol consumption among younger adults has implications for public health, the alcohol industry, and social dynamics. It reflects a broader shift in attitudes and behaviors around substance use, with potential impacts on everything from DUI rates to the popularity of bars and clubs.

The details

According to the report, Gen Zers are drinking less for a variety of reasons. Some cite the increased availability of high-alcohol single-serving drinks as a way to save money, while others say they are more focused on health and wellness and view marijuana as a safer alternative to alcohol. Experts also note that this generation socializes differently, with activities like video games and movie nights becoming more popular than traditional bar-going.

  • The report found that only 62% of those under 35 years old drink alcohol, down from 72% two decades ago.

The players

Danny Gonalz

A student at the University of Nevada, Reno who says his generation has had more recreational drug use than previous generations.

David Hutchison

A University of Nevada, Reno student who says his generation is drinking more single-serving alcoholic beverages as a way to save money.

Kenji Sax

A Ph.D. in Neuropsychology who says Gen Zers believe marijuana is not as dangerous as alcohol and are using it as an alternative.

Larry Devincenzi

The owner of Rum, Sugar, Lime, a bar that has a mocktail menu catering to Gen Z patrons and has noticed some customers "zebra striping" their drinks to maintain moderation.

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What they’re saying

“More recreational drug use in my generation, than I feel like maybe happened in previous generations.”

— Danny Gonalz, Student, University of Nevada, Reno

“Our generation has had more drinks come out where there's a single serving you can get at a gas station. That's a 14% drink. So even though we might not be drinking six beers that night, people are having two-to-three of those.”

— David Hutchison, Student, University of Nevada, Reno

“Their patterns of socializing are different than older generations. Gathering at bars isn't necessarily as popular. Playing video games, ordering pizza, watching movies. That is much more popular.”

— Kenji Sax, Ph.D. in Neuropsychology

“You can have significant health effects. It affects memory. It affects concentration. There is a psychological addiction. And you can have withdrawals, just like you can have withdrawals from other drugs.”

— Kenji Sax, Ph.D. in Neuropsychology

“You age, your income, your interests. And who you hang out with.”

— Larry Devincenzi, Owner, Rum, Sugar, Lime

The takeaway

The decline in alcohol consumption among Gen Zers reflects a broader shift in attitudes and behaviors around substance use, with potential impacts on public health, the alcohol industry, and social dynamics. As this generation ages, their drinking habits may continue to evolve, shaped by factors like income, interests, and social circles.