Gen Z Shifts Social Habits: Less Alcohol, More Fitness and Screen Time
Young people continue to gather in bars, but alcohol plays a less central role than before, with non-alcoholic drinks gaining popularity alongside beer and cocktails. Running groups and fitness activities are increasingly becoming social meeting points. Data from various sources indicate a shift in habits among at least some young adults, showing reduced alcohol consumption and increased spending on fitness and alternative social activities.
In the United States, Gallup's 2025 consumption survey found that only 54% of adults reported drinking alcohol, the lowest rate since 1939. Among 18-34-year-olds, the drinking rate dropped from 59% in 2023 to 50% in 2025. The U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health also reported declines in tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drug use among adolescents and young adults. Bank of America economists termed this trend "The Great Moderation," noting a 9% rise in Gen Z fitness spending compared to under 4% growth in bar expenses.
In Israel, the picture is more complex. A 2026 longitudinal study by the Israeli Center for Addiction and Mental Health (ICA) found no overall decline in problematic alcohol use among Jewish adults aged 18-70, with 12% reporting problematic use, unchanged from 2025. Among 18-35-year-olds, 25.4% reported problematic alcohol or drug use, with higher rates among men. The study also noted that problematic use was more common among those who served in the military. Professor Shaul Lev-Ran of ICA emphasized that lower problematic use compared to other age groups does not necessarily mean low absolute rates.
Experts suggest that while alcohol consumption may be declining, it does not necessarily indicate reduced distress among youth. Instead, some may be substituting alcohol with other behaviors such as increased screen time, social media use, cannabis consumption, or fitness activities as coping mechanisms. Israeli youth, who grew up with smartphones, may use screens to regulate emotions, but this can also increase anxiety and social comparison.
Health research highlights growing awareness of alcohol's risks. Professor Tzipi Strauss from Sheba Medical Center cited studies showing no protective effect of low alcohol consumption and confirmed links between alcohol and several cancers. Alcohol's negative impact on sleep and brain health was also noted. Meanwhile, cannabis use is rising in both the U.S. and Israel, sometimes perceived as a safer alternative due to its "medical" branding and natural image.
In contrast, a 2026 University College London report found increasing binge drinking and drug use among British youth aged 17 to 23, illustrating that the trend is not uniform globally. The overall picture is complex: while some young people drink less, others increase risky consumption, and many seek different ways to manage anxiety, boredom, and uncertainty, whether through fitness, screens, substances, or other behaviors.
Summary: Young adults in the U.S. and Israel are drinking less alcohol, favoring fitness and non-alcoholic socializing, but problematic substance use remains significant, with shifts toward other coping behaviors like screen time and cannabis. Health experts warn of alcohol's risks despite declining consumption, and global trends vary.
