Alcohol consumption in BC decreases, but still above Canadian average

After record highs during the early days of COVID, per capita alcohol consumption in BC has fallen for the second straight year in a row. However, it still remains well above the Canadian average.

CISUR researchers have released their annual update on alcohol consumption in BC. During the 2022/23 fiscal year, British Columbians consumed 526 standard drinks (SDs) per person over the age of 15 per year, including non-drinkers. This is a decrease of 0.34L in age 15+ per capita ethanol consumption, down to 8.97L from 9.31L in 2021/22, and a continuation of a downward trend since 2020/21. Even with the decrease, BC is still above the Canadian average of 475 standard drinks/year.

Some other interesting trends found in this year's update include the return of alcohol consumption at on-premise establishments (bars, restaurants, etc) to near pre-COVID levels, increasing consumption of spirits, which is now almost at par with longtime beverage-type leader beer, and the erosion of alcohol prices over time when adjusted for inflation.

 Read the full update on our alcohol consumption page.