ALBANY, N.Y. – A new analysis of national health data shows that New York and New Jersey both exceed the U.S. average for alcohol use among minors, with experts warning that the numbers highlight a persistent public health concern in the Northeast.
According to a study by The Dawn Rehab, based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 16.43% of New Yorkers aged 12 to 20 reported drinking alcohol in the past month, surpassing the national average of 15.14%. The state’s binge drinking rate among minors—defined as consuming five or more drinks on one occasion—was 9.24%, also above the U.S. average of 8.29%.
New Jersey ranked tenth nationally, with 17.98% of minors reporting alcohol use and 9.06% reporting binge drinking. Pennsylvania, meanwhile, recorded slightly lower levels, with 16.87% of minors reporting use.
While New York’s rate is below the Northeast regional average of 17.56%—and significantly lower than Vermont’s nation-leading 24.66%—officials say the figures still represent hundreds of thousands of underage drinkers across the state.
Health experts warn that early exposure to alcohol increases the risk of addiction, impaired brain development, and other long-term consequences. The report’s authors urged parents, educators, and community leaders to strengthen prevention efforts and expand behavioral health resources for teens.
The data underscores a broader regional pattern, with Northeastern states consistently reporting higher rates of youth alcohol consumption compared with other parts of the country.