There’s been a lot of talk lately about why Gen Z doesn’t drink as much as past generations. The Wall Street Journal even ran an article breaking it down into three reasons: we’re more health-conscious, we’re a “lonely generation,” and we’re switching to cannabis instead of alcohol.
I think there’s some truth to all of that, but honestly? The biggest reason is way simpler. It’s expensive.
We Care About Health… But Not Always
I won’t deny it. Gen Z definitely cares more about health. We’re all over gym culture, protein shakes, and whatever diet trend is going around on TikTok. Alcohol doesn’t exactly scream “wellness,” so yeah, I get why people cut back. But let’s be real: if a night out wasn’t so overpriced, people would still be going out and drinking more often, health trend or not.
The “Lonely Generation” Thing
The article also says we’re drinking less because we’re lonelier. I don’t think we want to be lonely. It’s just that being social is expensive now. Going to the bar, going out to eat, hitting a concert, it all adds up. So yeah, sometimes it’s just easier (and cheaper) to stay in.
And honestly? Club culture feels kind of dead anyway. Clubs only make sense when you’re drinking a lot. If you’re there sober or just nursing one drink, you realize pretty quick that it’s not as fun as TV shows from the ’90s made it look.
Cannabis Is Definitely a Factor
No question, weed is more popular than ever. It’s not seen as rebellious anymore, it’s seen as normal, even healthy by some. And yeah, a lot of people I know would rather smoke than drink. That definitely explains part of the shift.
But Really… It’s the Price
At the end of the day, though, I think it all comes down to money. Drinks are ridiculously overpriced. Why would I spend $12 to $15 on a glass of wine at a bar when I can get the whole bottle for $20 at the liquor store? Why pay $18 for a cocktail when I can just grab a bottle of liquor and make drinks at home for way cheaper?
That’s why I think a lot of us still drink, it’s just happening in smaller settings. House parties, chill hangs, dinners with friends. We’re choosing to drink in ways that don’t break the bank.
Final Thought
So yes, health matters. Loneliness is part of it. Cannabis plays a role. But the real answer? It’s just too expensive to go out and drink these days. Gen Z hasn’t ditched alcohol completely. We’re just moving away from overpriced bars and boring clubs, and choosing smaller, cheaper, and honestly more fun ways to hang out.