The State That Drinks The Most Beer Isn't California Or Texas

The reasons North Dakota outdrinks other states isn't entirely clear

In contrast to regions celebrated for their vibrant brewery scenes or passion for craft beer, North Dakota lacks major, nationally recognized breweries and often doesn't appear on lists of must-visit cities for beer enthusiasts. Additionally, it is one of the least populated states in the U.S., with only Wyoming, Vermont, and Alaska having fewer residents. However, what North Dakota may lack in brewery presence, it compensates for with impressive drinking volume, boasting a higher-than-average per capita alcohol consumption.

The reasons behind North Dakota's top ranking in alcohol consumption are not entirely understood, but they likely stem from a mix of factors. One possibility is the state's long-standing cultural attitudes towards drinking. Another factor could be the influx of oil workers, as suggested by Eric Shepard, executive editor of Beer Marketer's Insights, in an interview with The Dickinson Press. There is also anecdotal speculation that the limited recreational options available may lead residents to turn to drinking as a pastime.

Regardless of the cause, while North Dakota claimed the title in 2021, this national ranking is likely to change in the coming years as demographics and trends evolve. It's important to note that although North Dakota has the highest consumption rates, it does not lead in beer production, nor does it have the highest number of craft breweries per capita or the most breweries overall. Those distinctions belong to other states, such as Ohio, Vermont, and California, respectively. This means that no matter your preference for dark or light beers, or where you are in the country, you are never far from a great pour.