Americans have gone from shots to joints. In a striking reflection of changing societal norms, a recent survey reveals that daily marijuana consumption now exceeds daily alcohol intake in the United States.

What’s more, according to the findings, adults who consume alcohol are nearly three times more likely to believe they would benefit from cutting back compared to those who use marijuana. This suggests a growing recognition among drinkers of the potential downsides of alcohol, while marijuana users seem less inclined to feel that their habits need moderation.

The survey further indicates that while lifetime and monthly alcohol consumption remain more prevalent than marijuana use, the tide turns when it comes to daily habits. Slightly more Americans report daily marijuana use than daily alcohol drinking, signaling a shift in everyday behavior.

Legalization perspectives also underscore this cultural transformation. Sixty percent of adults believe marijuana use should be legalized, compared to 76% who support the legality of alcohol. Among those who have used either substance, support for legalization is nearly identical, with 81% of alcohol users and 79% of marijuana users in favor of legal consumption.

Conducted by YouGov from June 7-10 and released to the public last week, the survey polled 1,116 U.S. adults, revealing that 84% have tried alcohol, while fewer than half (48%) have experimented with marijuana. Despite the lower lifetime use of cannabis, its daily consumption outpaces that of alcohol, with 8% of adults using marijuana daily compared to 5% who drink alcohol every day.

The following graphic tells the story:

This trend aligns with findings from other studies, such as a report published in May 2024 in the journal Addiction, which also noted higher daily marijuana use compared to alcohol. These insights collectively highlight a transformative moment in American substance use culture.

Attitudes towards the frequency of use also reflect this shift. When asked if they would be better off altering their consumption habits, 41% of alcohol users felt their current intake was adequate, while 30% believed reducing their alcohol consumption would be beneficial. In contrast, marijuana users expressed less concern about the frequency of their use, with only a small fraction indicating a desire to cut back.

Deano: not so cool anymore…

For decades, alcohol was entrenched in American culture as a source of amusement and camaraderie. Icons like Dean Martin, with his suave yet tipsy persona, epitomized the charm and humor associated with drinking.

Martin’s act of the lovable drunk became a staple of entertainment, symbolizing a carefree, fun-loving lifestyle. This romanticized view of alcohol permeated movies, music, and social gatherings, painting a picture of booze as a harmless, almost essential, part of life’s celebrations.

However, as society has evolved, so has its perspective on alcohol. The once endearing image of the tipsy crooner, as personified by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and the Rat Pack, has given way to a more critical understanding of the impacts of drinking. Medical professionals and researchers have increasingly highlighted the health risks associated with alcohol consumption, including liver disease, addiction, and mental health issues.

Moreover, the social consequences of alcohol abuse, such as impaired driving, domestic violence, and workplace accidents, have become harder to ignore. This reassessment reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing health and well-being over the fleeting pleasures of intoxication.

In contrast, marijuana, once stigmatized and criminalized, is now being re-evaluated through a more scientific and socially aware lens. Studies have shown that cannabis can offer medical benefits, such as pain relief, reduced anxiety, and improved sleep, without the severe health risks associated with alcohol.

The growing acceptance of marijuana, both recreationally and medically, suggests that society is beginning to view it as a safer alternative to alcohol. This shift is evidenced by the increasing number of states legalizing cannabis and the surge in its daily use, surpassing alcohol among many Americans. Therein lies enormous opportunities for investors.

Read This Article: Pot Stocks on the Brink of Election Year Boom

I’m the editorial director of Investing Daily. I’m also the chief investment strategist of our premium trading service Marijuana Profit Alert.

To find the best cannabis stocks, you need to conduct due diligence. The good news is, I’ve done the homework for you.

For Marijuana Profit Alert, I’ve put together a portfolio of the best-of-breed marijuana equities. These holdings are poised to soar during this political season. If you’re fortunate enough to own these companies, you’ll reap a windfall.

Don’t leave money on the table. Make your move now, before the investment herd. Learn about my next trades. Click here.