Survey: 21% of THC Drinkers Say They’ve Quit Alcohol Entirely

Survey results show the impact of the Cali Sober movement

Going “Cali Sober,” or embracing cannabis while avoiding alcohol and harder drugs, is a lifestyle choice that’s gaining mainstream traction. Survey data reveals just how dramatically THC beverages are reshaping drinking habits and enabling alcohol sobriety.

Crescent Canna recently surveyed 1,066 THC beverage consumers to understand how these products are affecting alcohol consumption and lifestyle choices.

Study highlights:

• 21% of THC beverage consumers say they’ve quit alcohol entirely since trying THC drinks
• An additional 56% report drinking “much less” or “somewhat less” alcohol
• 59% cite “no hangover” as a key reason for choosing THC beverages
• 52% specifically use THC drinks to avoid alcohol’s negative health effects
• Middle-aged adults (35-54) make up the majority of consumers at 52%

Over 3 in 4 THC Drinkers Have Cut Back on Alcohol

In the survey, 77% of respondents report drinking less alcohol since discovering THC beverages, with the shift going beyond casual moderation for many.

Among those who have reduced their drinking, 40% say they now consume “much less” alcohol, while 21% have eliminated it from their lives completely. Only 23% report no change to their alcohol consumption.

The findings align with what THC beverage brands have been hearing from their customers. The fact that more than one in five consumers has eliminated alcohol suggests THC drinks are enabling a genuine behavioral change.

It’s Not Just Young People Going Cali Sober

Contrary to stereotypes about cannabis consumers, the survey reveals that Delta-9 drinks have found their strongest foothold among middle-aged adults.

Respondents 35-54 years old account for 52% of THC beverage consumers, while those 55 and older represent more than a third of the market. Meanwhile, adults under 35 make up just 13% of consumers surveyed.

The geographic reach is similarly broad, with respondents from 47 states and Washington, D.C., participating in the survey. Georgia (13%), Louisiana (9%), and Florida (7%) had the highest representation.

Health-Consciousness Drives the Switch

When asked why they choose THC beverages, consumers pointed to wellness-oriented reasons alongside recreational enjoyment:

• 78% consume THC drinks for relaxation and unwinding
• 64% simply enjoy how they feel
• 59% appreciate the hangover-free experience
• 52% want to avoid alcohol’s negative effects
• 51% use them as a sleep aid
• 37% view them as a lower-calorie alternative to alcohol

Notably, 31% of THC beverage consumers report being productive or getting work done after consumption, a behavior not typically associated with alcohol use.

Drinking THC Beverages Is Becoming a Regular Habit

The survey shows THC drinks aren’t just an occasional novelty for most consumers surveyed. More than 75% report drinking at least one THC beverage weekly, with 45% having three or more per week.

Home remains the preferred setting, with 67% of respondents having tried their first THC drink either at home or at a friend’s place. However, social consumption is growing, with 55% reporting they use THC beverages to enhance parties and gatherings.

Brand exploration is also common – more than 80% of respondents have tried at least two different THC beverage brands.

A Third of Consumers Don’t Use Other Cannabis Products

While THC beverages often serve existing cannabis users, 33% of the THC drink consumers surveyed rarely or never use other cannabis products, like flower or THC edibles. This suggests the beverage format is attracting consumers who might not otherwise engage with cannabis.

THC Drink Consumers Enjoy a Range of Activities

Among the activities consumers enjoy after drinking THC beverages, the top choices are watching movies (a choice for the majority), arts and crafts (23%), video games (21%), and outdoor activities (16%), with eating coming in at 30%.

About the Survey

This survey collected insights from 1,066 respondents from Crescent Canna’s customer database who had tried a THC beverage at least once. Participants were contacted by email and offered a $25 coupon for participating. All respondents were 21+.