New Hampshire and Delaware lead the United States in per capita alcohol consumption, according to a recent poll from the World Population Review. New Hampshire recorded the highest rate at 4.67 gallons of ethanol per person, while Delaware followed with 3.52 gallons per capita.
Commenters on social media platforms noted that these statistics are largely influenced by alcohol sales data. New Hampshire's reputation for offering cheaper, tax-free alcohol attracts customers from neighboring states like Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont. This tax advantage makes it a popular destination for residents of these states to purchase alcohol in bulk.
"We put liquor stores all around the borders of our states, along the highway exits, so you can just pop over the border and stock up. We are big drinkers around here for sure, but not nearly what the sales would indicate," one commenter stated. Another added that individuals from New York frequently purchase alcohol in New Hampshire due to a significant price difference, with a handle of Crown Royal costing approximately $29.99 in New Hampshire compared to $47.99 in New York. Smaller bars and restaurants reportedly also benefit from these lower prices.
Despite its high alcohol consumption rates, New Hampshire was recently ranked first in the nation for Public Safety, based on FBI data measuring violent and property crime rates.
Delaware's high consumption rate is similarly linked to its lack of state sales tax on goods, including alcohol, which generally results in lower prices compared to Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The state features numerous privately run package stores and warehouse outlets, contributing to its sales volume.
Nevada ranked third in alcohol consumption with a rate of 3.42 gallons per capita. North Dakota and Montana followed, taking fourth and fifth place respectively. Montana was also noted for having the highest incidents of drunk driving and alcohol-related fatalities.
In contrast, Utah, known for strict alcohol regulations, recorded the lowest per capita consumption at 1.34 gallons.
On a global scale, the United States ranks 25th in alcohol consumption, with an average of 8.7 liters of pure alcohol consumed per person annually, slightly above the global average of 8.3 liters. Some U.S. cities also show high rates of excessive drinking, with Saratoga Springs, New York, previously identified as the "drunkest" city in the state due to 24% of its adult population consuming alcohol excessively.