YEARLY CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL PER CAPITA

This graph shows the average amount of pure alcohol consumed per person aged 14 or older. A gallon of pure alcohol is the equivalent of 198 drinks containing 11/2 ounces of 86 proof spirits.

Between 1962 and 1982, the rate of alcohol consumption in Alaska increased by 68%. During this same time, the real cost of alcohol dropped substantially. One major reason for this decline was the decline in the real tax rate on alcohol beverages.

Between 1981 and 1994 the alcohol consumption rate decreased. During this time span several public health measures were implemented:

1981-1983: Several large cities, including Anchorage, reduced the number of hours in which alcohol beverages could be sold.

1983, 1985, 1991: Relatively small increases in alcohol beverage taxes were imposed.

1985-1987: The minimum drinking age was slowly raised from 19 to 21.

1984: An Anchorage ordinance prohibiting happy hours and limiting multiple drink sales to the same individual was passed.

1986 to present: A number of villages and towns voted to ban alcohol possession and/or sales.