Alcohol consumption in the U.S. isn’t the same everywhere—some states definitely drink more than others. Using data from the CDC and other studies, we’re diving into the 15 states with the highest rates of excessive drinking.
Whether it’s due to culture, lifestyle, or social habits, these states stand out when it comes to alcohol consumption. We’ll also highlight the percentage of adults who report drinking excessively in each one.
1. Wisconsin
Known for its vibrant beer culture, Wisconsin tops the chart with a high percentage of adult drinkers. According to CDC data, 24.2% of adults report excessive drinking. This often reflects the state’s deep-rooted brewing tradition, dating back to the 19th century. The presence of numerous breweries and beer festivals fosters a culture of higher alcohol consumption.
In Wisconsin, social gatherings often revolve around drinking, whether it’s at a sports event or a neighborhood party. For travelers, visiting local breweries can be an engaging experience, offering unique craft beers and insights into the state’s rich brewing history.
2. North Dakota
With its wide-open spaces and cold winters, North Dakota sees 22.7% of its adults engaging in excessive drinking. The state’s harsh weather often leads residents to seek warmth in local bars and pubs, contributing to higher alcohol consumption.
Alcohol plays a significant role in social interactions and community events, with many finding comfort in shared drinks. For those visiting, exploring the state’s small-town bars can provide a glimpse into North Dakota’s unique social fabric, where hospitality and warmth are synonymous with a good drink.
3. Iowa
Iowa’s alcohol consumption is marked by a 21.2% rate of excessive drinking among adults. The state’s agricultural backdrop supports a burgeoning craft beer scene, where locally sourced ingredients are a staple.
Community events and gatherings frequently feature local brews, reflecting Iowa’s embrace of craft beer culture. For visitors, participating in brewery tours or tasting events offers a rewarding experience, highlighting Iowa’s commitment to quality and innovation in brewing.
4. Nebraska
Influenced by its robust beer culture, Nebraska boasts a 20.3% excessive drinking rate. The state’s breweries are known for producing a wide array of craft beers, attracting enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
In Nebraska, beer often accompanies social and community events, from fairs to sports. For those traveling through, visiting a local brewery can offer insights into the state’s dedication to craft beer excellence, with opportunities to sample unique and flavorful varieties.
5. Minnesota
Minnesota sees 20.4% of its adults participating in excessive drinking. The state’s vibrant nightlife and bar scene play a significant role in its alcohol consumption rates. Local bars and breweries frequently serve as social hubs, offering a mix of traditional and innovative drinks. Visitors to Minnesota can explore these lively venues for a taste of the local culture, where friendly gatherings and quality drinks go hand in hand.
6. Illinois
In Illinois, 20.5% of adults report excessive drinking. The state’s diverse cultural landscape offers a wide variety of drinking experiences, from high-end cocktail bars in Chicago to local breweries statewide.
Alcohol is often a focal point in social gatherings, enhancing Illinois’s vibrant social scene. Tourists can enjoy the state’s rich offering of drinks, exploring everything from craft beers to sophisticated cocktails, reflecting the eclectic nature of Illinois’s drinking culture.
7. Massachusetts
Influenced by its historic and social settings, Massachusetts has a 20.5% excessive drinking rate among adults. The state’s pubs and bars often serve as communal spaces for both locals and tourists.
Boston, in particular, is known for its historic taverns and vibrant nightlife, where alcohol plays a key role in social interactions. Visitors can experience Massachusetts’s social culture by visiting its many bars and taverns, where the atmosphere is as enjoyable as the drinks themselves.
8. Alaska
Alaska’s extreme weather and long, dark winters contribute to its 20.5% excessive drinking rate. In this remote state, alcohol is often part of social life, providing warmth and companionship. Local bars and breweries offer a haven for residents and visitors alike, showcasing unique Alaskan brews. Adventurers exploring Alaska’s vast landscapes can find solace in its welcoming bars, where stories and drinks are shared in equal measure.
9. Hawaii
Often enjoying tropical cocktails in picturesque settings, Hawaii’s drinkers make up 20.3% of the adult population. The island state’s tourism and laid-back lifestyle contribute to its alcohol consumption.
Beach bars and resorts are popular venues for both residents and tourists, offering refreshing drinks amidst beautiful landscapes. For those visiting, savoring a cocktail by the ocean is not just a drink, but an experience that encapsulates Hawaii’s relaxed charm.
10. Montana
Montana’s 20.2% excessive drinking rate reflects its community-centric approach to alcohol. Small towns and cities alike often gather in local bars, fostering a strong sense of community. Drinking here is often intertwined with local traditions and events. Visitors can enjoy Montana’s hospitality by visiting its pubs and bars, where the atmosphere is welcoming and the drinks plentiful.
11. New Hampshire
With charming taverns and pubs scattered throughout the state, New Hampshire sees 20.5% of its adults engaging in excessive drinking. These venues are central to social life, offering a mix of local and international drinks.
Alcohol often accompanies community events and gatherings, making it integral to the state’s social fabric. Visitors can experience New Hampshire’s hospitality by exploring its traditional taverns, where every drink tells a story.
12. Colorado
Colorado’s craft beer scene contributes to its 20.1% excessive drinking rate among adults. The state is renowned for its innovative breweries and beer festivals. Local breweries and taprooms are popular meeting places, where residents and tourists enjoy a wide range of craft beers. For those exploring Colorado, participating in brewery tours offers a unique insight into the state’s dedication to beer artistry.
13. Maine
Often linked to its coastal lifestyle and seafood pairings, Maine’s excessive drinking rate is 19.9%. Bars and pubs offer a wide selection of local brews, often with stunning ocean views. For tourists, Maine provides a unique drinking experience, where fresh seafood is paired with local craft beers. Partaking in these local traditions can enhance any visit to this picturesque state.
14. Ohio
Ohio sees 19.7% of its adults partaking in excessive drinking, supported by a vibrant craft beer scene. The state’s breweries are a hub for social activity, drawing both locals and visitors. Craft beer in Ohio is celebrated through festivals and events, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. For those visiting, Ohio’s diverse brewery landscape promises a memorable tasting journey.
15. Wyoming
With a 19.2% excessive drinking rate, Wyoming’s rugged frontier spirit is reflected in its lively bars and pubs. Drinking is deeply embedded in the social culture, often enjoyed as a way to unwind after outdoor adventures. For both locals and visitors, the state’s watering holes offer a welcoming glimpse into its unique blend of hospitality, tradition, and wild charm.
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