Alcohol’s Share of US Household Spending Falls to Record Low

The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that alcohol's share of US household spending fell to a record low of just 0.77% in 2025. This amounted to an average of $630 per household on alcoholic beverages. The Consumer Expenditure Survey revealed that this was the lowest figure since 1984 and just below the 0.78% recorded in 2020 during the Covid lockdowns.

The overall share of Americans consuming alcohol dropped to an all-time low of 54% last year, remaining steady this year according to Gallup polls. The number of drinks per week slightly increased in 2026 but remained low. The alcohol sector has faced a sales slump post-pandemic as consumers have turned to wellness and healthier lifestyles.

Public health guidance has also highlighted the negative impacts of alcohol. Major liquor companies like Diageo and Brown-Forman have seen their shares plummet more than 50% over the past five years. Beer producers Constellation Brands and Molson Coors have also declined by around 40% and 11% respectively. In response to softer trends, alcohol companies have introduced pre-made cocktails and premium versions, targeting younger drinkers willing to spend more.