In this article, we take a state-by-state look at the beer industry, and glance into what is popular across the nation.
Beer is one of the oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverages in the United States, with a rich history dating back to early colonial times. According to World Population Review, the U.S. ranks as one of the top beer-drinking nations globally, second only to China. Over the years, beer has grown to become deeply embedded in American culture, with each state boasting its unique preferences, consumption habits, and contributions to the overall industry.
The global beer market was valued at $768.55 billion in 2022, and projections suggest it will grow to an astounding $996.49 billion by 2030, according to data from Vantage Market Research. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3%, a trend fueled by several key factors.
Corona is the most popular overall, leading in numerous states, especially in the South.
One major driver is the rise of disposable income, which has enabled more consumers to explore premium and craft beer options. Craft breweries have proliferated across the country, often capitalizing on the "local" and "artisanal" trends. These small, independent breweries have captured the imagination of a new generation of beer drinkers who value innovation, quality, and a connection to their local community. The popularity of craft beer has shifted the market dynamics significantly, giving consumers more choices beyond mass-market beer brands.
Interestingly, the younger segments of the population—primarily Millennials and Gen Z—are also influencing the market in ways that differ from previous generations. These consumers are increasingly opting for healthier lifestyles, which has given rise to a surge in low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beer options. The non-alcoholic beer segment has gained a substantial foothold, appealing to those who want to enjoy the social experience of beer without the effects of alcohol. Major beer brands and craft breweries alike have taken note, expanding their portfolios to include non-alcoholic versions to meet this growing demand.
A State-by-State Look at Consumption
Beer preferences in the United States vary greatly by region, influenced by local tastes, cultural factors, and even state-specific laws and regulations. These differences are evident in both the brands people gravitate toward and the types of beer they consume.
In the Midwest, beer is more than just a drink—it's a cultural staple. States like Wisconsin are particularly beer-obsessed, with a deep-rooted love for Miller products. Miller Genuine Draft, Miller High Life, and Miller Lite consistently top the charts in popularity, reflecting the region's long-standing relationship with the brewing industry. Milwaukee, home to iconic breweries, ranks as the second-best beer city in the U.S., further solidifying Wisconsin's status as the most beer-loving state. The Midwest as a whole, including Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, stands out as the most beer-friendly region, with each state contributing to the national consumption numbers.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast, beer preferences lean toward Mexican imports like Corona and Modelo. This trend is unsurprising given the region's proximity to Mexico and the strong cultural ties that influence food and beverage choices. West Coast consumers, especially in states like California and Arizona, have embraced these brands, making Mexican beers a staple of the region.
In the Southern U.S., Corona reigns supreme, particularly in states like Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The warm climate of the South, combined with a growing Hispanic population, has made light and refreshing Mexican beers the go-to choice for many drinkers. This trend aligns with broader national consumption data, where Corona continues to be one of the most popular beer brands in the country.
On the West Coast, Mexican beers like Modelo and Corona dominate.
New England, on the other hand, shows a preference for domestic craft beers, with Samuel Adams standing out as a regional favorite. This brand loyalty may be influenced by the pride locals take in supporting East Coast breweries, and Samuel Adams, based in Boston, has become synonymous with quality craft brewing in the area. Across the Midwest, Belgian-style beers, like Blue Moon, are also favored by states such as Minnesota and Nebraska, highlighting the region’s growing appreciation for diverse beer styles beyond the traditional American lager.
However, not all regions have the same relationship with beer. Alaska, for example, ranks lowest in beer consumption, largely due to the high cost of purchasing beer in the state. Alaskans pay significantly more—up to $31.21 for a 24-pack—compared to other parts of the country. This steep price tag, double the national average, may explain why beer-related searches and consumption are lower in Alaska compared to other states.
Alcohol laws and taxes further complicate beer consumption patterns across the country. States like Oklahoma, for instance, have quirky laws, such as restricting cold beer sales for any beer over 4% alcohol by volume. These kinds of regulations, along with varying tax rates, make the landscape of beer consumption in America highly dependent on state-specific rules.
Despite these differences, one thing remains clear: beer is loved across the country, albeit in different ways. From the craft brew capitals of Colorado and Pennsylvania to the Belgian-style preferences in the Midwest and the Mexican beer dominance on the coasts, each region has a unique relationship with this iconic beverage.
Industry Trends and the Changing Landscape of Popular Beers
The U.S. beer industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, both in terms of consumption patterns and the types of beer that are gaining popularity. It may surprise some that America’s most popular beer is no longer a domestic brand. Corona, a Mexican import, has overtaken Bud Light as the top-selling beer in the country. Particularly during the summer months, a Corona with a slice of lime is considered a refreshing choice for many American beer drinkers. This shift highlights broader trends in the market, where 20% of the top 10 beers consumed in the U.S. are Mexican-style, and another 20% are Belgian-style. The remaining 60% are made up of familiar American brands like Bud Light, Budweiser, Miller Lite, and Coors Light.
While Mexican-style beers have long held a place in American beer culture, the recent controversy surrounding Bud Light has likely played a role in Corona’s ascension to the top. Bud Light’s 2023 partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney led to a backlash and boycotts from conservative consumers, particularly in Republican-leaning counties. The fallout resulted in a significant drop in sales for Bud Light, a brand that had previously been a mainstay of American beer culture. Whether Bud Light can fully recover from this remains to be seen, but the episode underscores how social and political issues can quickly impact brand loyalty in today’s market.
Despite these challenges, Bud Light continues to hold a dominant position in the light beer category, alongside Miller Lite and Coors Light. These three beers, all boasting a 4.2% ABV and calorie counts between 96 and 110 per can, appeal to consumers who want to enjoy beer without worrying too much about caloric intake. Budweiser, by comparison, has 145 calories per serving, making light beers a more attractive option for those looking to indulge without the extra calories.
New England remains loyal to local breweries, with Samuel Adams being a favorite in states like Massachusetts and Maine.
While light beers remain popular, the market is also seeing growth in other lower-calorie and non-alcoholic options. Heineken, for example, has not found as much success with its light beer in the U.S., but its non-alcoholic offering, Heineken 0.0, has made a significant impact. Heineken 0.0 contains no alcohol whatsoever, unlike many other non-alcoholic beers that still have trace amounts, making it a favorite among the “sober curious” movement. With more people opting to explore sobriety or extend alcohol-free periods beyond trends like Dry January, zero-alcohol beers are becoming increasingly mainstream.
This shift towards non-alcoholic options reflects a broader cultural trend in which health-conscious consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. As the demand for healthier, lower-calorie options grows, the beer industry is evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of drinkers. This diversification of the beer market presents both challenges and opportunities for brewers and distributors alike, as they work to navigate changing consumer preferences while still catering to traditional beer drinkers.
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