In this article, we are going to discuss 10 U.S. states with the highest beer consumption per capita. If you want to check out our detailed analysis of the history of beer, consumption and sales figures of beer in the U.S., the recent backlash against the most popular beer in America and the market outlook of the global beer industry, head to 25 U.S. States With the Highest Beer Consumption per Capita.
10. Louisiana
Beer Consumption per Capita: 27.5 gallons
Invented in the 19th century in a New Orleans coffeehouse, a popular drink in the state is the Sazerac, a local variation of the cognac or whiskey cocktail. With over 31 breweries present in the state, beer is also a big part of the local culture. A popular local beer is Abita, a brewing company founded near New Orleans in 1986.
9. Hawaii
Beer Consumption per Capita: 28 gallons
As the only U.S. state in the tropics, the archipelago is a hotbed for tourists from all over the world. Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise that Hawaii is among the top-10 states with the highest per-capita beer consumption in the country. With over 13 breweries present in the state, some popular local brands are Aloha and Maui.
8. South Dakota
Beer Consumption per Capita: 29.1 gallons
South Dakota is one of the US states with the highest beer consumption per capita. The signature drink of South Dakota is the Roosevelt, dedicated to its iconic landmark, the Mount Rushmore. With over 9 breweries operating in the state, South Dakota is famous for its red beer, which is beer mixed with tomato juice, a well-established staple for many.
7. Nevada
Beer Consumption per Capita: 29.5 gallons
Situated in the Southern Nevada is the city of Las Vegas. As one of the most popular party towns in the country, Sin City certainly contributes heavily to the high beer consumption in the state.
6. Maine
Beer Consumption per Capita: 29.5 gallons
Though famous for its coffee flavored brandy, the Pine Tree State is home to over 90 breweries, with Portland as an important city in the American craft beer industry. The Allagash Truepenny Pilsner, from Maine, was rated the best Pilsner in the country in 2021 by Liquor.com.
5. Pennsylvania
Beer Consumption per Capita: 29.7 gallons
Pennsylvania is home to the oldest brewery in the United States. Established in 1829, the D.G. Yuengling & Son is also one of the largest breweries in the country. The brewery has also remained independent, family-owned and continuously run by the Yuengling family since its foundation. The Yuengling lager is a very popular beer in the state.
4. North Dakota
Beer Consumption per Capita: 33.1 gallons
Beer is the most popular drink in North Dakota, with the Fargo Brewing Company being the state’s oldest and largest brewery, with Fargo Original Lager being their most popular brand.
3. Vermont
Beer Consumption per Capita: 35.3 gallons
Though home to a thriving spirits industry and famous for its maple liqueurs, the Green Mountain State also boasts over 60 breweries and some of the best-rated craft beers in the world. The Alchemist Heady Topper was rated the best overall beer in the U.S., according to Liquor.com.
2. Montana
Beer Consumption per Capita: 37.1 gallons
From huckleberry gins to Montana moonshine to bacon-flavored vodka, there’s a liquor for everyone out there in Montana. The Montana Brewers Association represents 48 breweries from across the state. Montana Beer and Montucky are among the popular beer brands in the Treasure State.
1. New Hampshire
Beer Consumption per Capita: 41.5 gallons
With over 90 breweries, New Hampshire is, by a margin, the state with the highest annual beer consumption per capita in the country. Though it is one of the smallest and least populous states in the U.S., New Hampshire certainly has a strong affinity for alcohol. The state was also the highest per capita ethanol consumer, with 4.43 gallons, in 2021. One of the most sought-after beers in America, the Russian imperial stout ‘Kate the Great’ is produced by the Portsmouth Brewery in New Hampshire.
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