From Dry January to Sober Curious, U.S. drinking rates reach lowest in decades

A 2025 Gallup poll found 54% of U.S. adults identify as drinkers, down from 62% in 2023, and younger generations are increasingly described as 'sober curious'.

Reportedly, the share of U.S. adults who say they drink alcohol has fallen to levels not seen in many years. A 2025 Gallup poll found 54% of U.S. adults consider themselves drinkers, compared with 62% in 2023. The change is linked in reporting to practices such as Dry January and a growing 'sober curious' movement. Younger adults are noted as drinking less than people born between 1946 and 1965. Key facts: - A 2025 Gallup poll reported 54% of U.S. adults identified as drinkers, down from 62% in 2023. - Many people extend alcohol-free periods like Dry January into longer breaks from drinking. - The article reports that Millennials and Gen Z are drinking less than the generation born 1946–1965. - Cited reasons include health concerns, saving money, alternative activities, dislike of hangovers, and shifts to beverages such as coffee, matcha, and mocktails. - The piece notes a reported decline in binge drinking and that some people substitute other substances such as vaping or cannabis where legal. - Drinkaware data were cited as indicating some people reduced drinking even during holiday seasons such as Christmas and New Year's. Summary: The reported decline in self‑reported drinking reflects changing social and consumption patterns across age groups and could influence where and how people gather. Undetermined at this time.