Georgia Drug and Alcohol Statistics

Statistical Data on Drugs in Georgia

Georgia faces significant challenges related to substance use, addiction, and drug-related deaths. The state has experienced a dramatic increase in overdose fatalities in recent years, with opioids—particularly synthetic opioids like fentanyl—driving much of this crisis. While Georgia’s rates remain below national averages in several categories, the upward trajectory of drug-related deaths and the prevalence of substance use disorders among both youth and adults indicate an ongoing public health emergency. This comprehensive statistical overview draws from multiple state and federal sources to present a complete picture of Georgia’s substance use landscape, treatment infrastructure, and demographic patterns.

Overall Drug Overdose Deaths

• 2,687 drug overdose deaths per year (recent data)
• 24.9 deaths per 100,000 residents (20.29% less than national rate)
• 2.78% of all deaths in Georgia are from drug overdose
• 90.08% increase in OD deaths over the last 3 years
• 2.49% of nationwide OD deaths occur in Georgia
• 1,124 persons died from drug-induced causes in 2010
• 1,206 overdose deaths from January 2014–January 2015
• 1,899 overdose deaths from January 2024–January 2025 (36.5% increase from 2014-2015)
• 2,655 overdose deaths in November 2021–November 2022 (highest 12-month period in past decade)
• 2,390 drug overdose deaths in 2021

Georgia has experienced a severe escalation in drug overdose deaths over the past decade. The 90% increase over three years and the 61.9% increase from 2019 to 2021 demonstrate an accelerating crisis, though the state’s overall death rate remains somewhat below the national average.

Opioid-Related Deaths

Overall Opioid Deaths

• 1,881 opioid overdose deaths in 2023
• 73.2% of all overdose deaths involve opioids
• 1,795 deaths (72.00%) were due to opioids in 2021
• 1,014 opioid overdose deaths in 2017
• 17.5 deaths per 100,000 residents (27.1% less than national rate)
• 75,437 (70.70%) of 106,699 U.S. overdose deaths were opioid-related in 2021

Opioid Types

• 89.2% of opioid overdose deaths involve synthetic opioids (such as fentanyl)
• 57% of total overdose deaths attributed to fentanyl in 2021
• 218% increase in fentanyl overdose deaths between 2019 and 2021
• 419 deaths involving synthetic opioids (mainly fentanyl) in 2017, up from 61 in 2012
• 568 deaths involved prescription opioids in 2017 (highest number)
• 19.8% of opioid overdose deaths involve prescription opioids
• 263 heroin deaths in 2017, up from 40 in 2012
• 5.8% of opioid overdose deaths involve heroin

Opioid Overdose Trends

• 9.7 deaths per 100,000 persons in 2017 (compared to national rate of 14.6)
• 5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons in 2017, up from 3.9 in 2013
• 44 opioid overdose deaths (2.45%) determined to be suicide in 2021
• 2,408 deaths listed opioids as one of multiple causes in 2021

Opioids account for nearly three-quarters of all overdose deaths in Georgia, with synthetic opioids (primarily fentanyl) representing the fastest-growing threat. The dramatic increase in fentanyl deaths—from 61 in 2012 to 419 in 2017, and continuing to rise—reflects a nationwide trend of illicit fentanyl contamination in the drug supply.

Drug Overdose Deaths by Demographics

Northwest Health District (1-1) – 2023

By Sex

Sex	Deaths	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
Male	75	21.3	24.8
Female	66	18.2	11.4
Total	141	19.7	17.9

By Race

Race	Deaths	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
White	125	21.4	19.7
African American	11	11.4	16.4
Other	5	15.3	7.9
Total	141	19.7	17.9

By Age Group

Age Group	Deaths	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
15-24 years	7	7.5	10.8
25-34 years	29	30.7	30.4
35-44 years	48	51.3	40.1
45-54 years	26	27.7	26.9
55-64 years	18	19.8	19.5
65-74 years	11	16.1	8.2
75-84 years	2	—	1.1
Total	141	20.0	18.1

North Georgia Health District (1-2) – 2023

By Sex

Sex	Deaths	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
Male	41	15.7	24.8
Female	18	6.8	11.4
Total	59	11.2	17.9

By Race

Race	Deaths	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
White	58	12.4	19.7
African American	1	—	16.4
Other	0	—	7.9
Total	59	11.2	17.9

By Age Group

Age Group	Deaths	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
15-24 years	1	—	10.8
25-34 years	17	26.8	30.4
35-44 years	23	34.3	40.1
45-54 years	12	17.1	26.9
55-64 years	4	—	19.5
65-74 years	2	—	8.2
Total	59	11.3	18.1

Overdose deaths in Georgia show significant demographic patterns, with males experiencing rates more than twice as high as females. Age-wise, the 35-44 age group shows the highest death rates, followed by the 25-34 age group, indicating that middle-aged adults are most vulnerable.

Prison Drug Deaths

• 2 prisoner deaths from drug overdoses in 2018
• At least 49 prisoner deaths from overdoses between 2019 and 2022
• Methamphetamine cited as cause in at least 45 deaths since 2018 (biggest cause)
• Synthetic cannabinoids caused 13 prisoner deaths, often in combination with other drugs

Drug overdoses in Georgia prisons have increased dramatically, reflecting both the availability of drugs within correctional facilities and the broader opioid and stimulant crisis. Methamphetamine has become the leading cause of prison overdose deaths.

Key Comparative Rankings

National Rankings

• 2nd-highest rate of adolescent opioid addiction in the U.S.
• 10th-highest rate of adult opioid addiction in the U.S.
• 9th cheapest state for residential drug rehabilitation services (non-hospital)
• Tied with Missouri for average outpatient drug rehabilitation costs
• Ranked 29th for youth illicit drug use (7.6%)

Rate Comparisons to National Averages

• Overdose death rate: 20.29% less than national rate
• Opioid overdose death rate: 27.1% less than national rate
• Drug-induced death rate: Lower than national average (11.6 vs 12.9 per 100,000 in 2010)
• Opioid prescribing rate: Higher than national average (70.9 vs 58.7 per 100 persons in 2017)

Georgia’s position relative to other states reveals both areas of concern and relative strengths. The state’s high adolescent opioid addiction rate contrasts with treatment costs that are among the lowest in the nation.

Overdose and Incarceration Trends (2000-2018 Comparison)

• Overdose death rate increased from 4 to 13 per 100,000 (200% change)
• Jail population rate changed from 503 to 609 per 100,000 residents (21% change)

While overdose deaths tripled from 2000 to 2018, jail incarceration rates increased by only 21%, suggesting that law enforcement approaches alone have not stemmed the overdose crisis. This disparity highlights the need for public health interventions.

Regional Comparisons (2017-2019)

Youth (Ages 12–17): Georgia vs. Region 4 vs. U.S.

Measure	Georgia (GA)	Region 4	U.S.
Past-month marijuana use	5.8%	6.2%	6.8%
Past-month illicit drug use	6.7%	7.5%	8.2%
First-time alcohol use	7.2%	8.7%	9.3%
First-time marijuana use	5.8%	4.8%	5.2%

Young Adults (Ages 18–25): Georgia vs. Region 4 vs. U.S.

Measure	Georgia (GA)	Region 4	U.S.
Past-year marijuana use	31.2%	30.6%	35.0%
Past-year marijuana use disorder	5.2%	4.6%	5.6%
Past-year opioid use disorder	1.1%	1.3%	1.0%
Past-year illicit drug use disorder	6.7%	6.6%	7.5%
Past-year substance use disorder	11.5%	12.3%	14.7%

Overall Population (Ages 12+): Georgia vs. Region 4 vs. U.S.

Measure	Georgia (GA)	Region 4	U.S.
Past-year marijuana use	14.1%	14.0%	16.2%
Past-year marijuana use disorder	1.5%	1.3%	1.6%
Past-year heroin use	0.06%	0.25%	0.30%
Past-year prescription pain reliever misuse	3.4%	3.9%	3.7%
Past-year opioid use disorder	0.5%	0.8%	0.7%
Past-year illicit drug use disorder	2.4%	2.7%	2.9%
Past-year substance use disorder	5.8%	6.4%	7.4%

Georgia’s substance use patterns are generally similar to its regional neighbors (Region 4) but typically lower than national averages, suggesting some regional protective factors or underreporting.

General Drug Use Statistics

• More than 10% of all Americans above age 11 used illicit drugs in prior month (2014)
• More than 2% used prescription drugs for non-medical purposes (2014)
• Unemployed individuals may be more likely to abuse drugs in Georgia

Substance Use Prevalence

Overall Population (Ages 12+)

Measure	Number (thousands)	Percentage
Illicit Drug Use (Past Month)	1,187	13.10%
Marijuana Use (Past Year)	1,595	17.59%
Marijuana Use (Past Month)	1,094	12.07%
Illicit Drug Use Other Than Marijuana (Past Month)	285	3.15%
Cocaine Use (Past Year)	132	1.46%
Heroin Use (Past Year)	36	0.44%
Hallucinogen Use (Past Year)	222	2.45%
Methamphetamine Use (Past Year)	73	0.81%
Prescription Pain Reliever Misuse (Past Year)	273	3.01%
Opioid Misuse (Past Year)	294	3.24%

Data: 2021-2022 annual averages

Historical Context

• 6.51% of Georgia residents reported past-month illicit drug use (national average: 8.82%)
• 2.70% of Georgia residents used an illicit drug other than marijuana in past month (national average: 3.33%)
• 14.1% past-year marijuana use (2017-2019), increased from 2002-2004
• 3.4% prescription pain reliever misuse (2017-2019)
• 0.06% heroin use in past year (2017-2019), lower than regional (0.25%) and national (0.30%) averages

While Georgia’s illicit drug use rates are generally lower than national averages, marijuana remains the most commonly used illicit substance. The state shows relatively high rates of first-time marijuana use among youth, indicating ongoing initiation into substance use.

Youth Drug Use (Ages 12-17)

Youth Trends (2009-2013)

• Annual average of 73,000 adolescents (8.9%) reported illicit drug use in month before survey
• Georgia’s adolescent drug use surpassed nationwide level during 2012-2013 period
• Previously slightly lower than national average starting in 2009

Over one in ten Americans aged 12 and older reported recent illicit drug use as of 2014, with Georgia showing slightly lower rates than the national average. Unemployment appears correlated with higher substance abuse rates.

Current Use Statistics

Measure	Number (thousands)	Percentage
Illicit Drug Use (Past Month)	64	6.99%
Marijuana Use (Past Year)	94	10.28%
Marijuana Use (Past Month)	54	5.87%
Illicit Drug Use Other Than Marijuana (Past Month)	18	1.97%
Cocaine Use (Past Year)	1	0.13%
Methamphetamine Use (Past Year)	1	0.13%
Prescription Pain Reliever Misuse (Past Year)	16	1.77%
Opioid Misuse (Past Year)	16	1.78%

Data: 2021-2022 annual averages

Key Findings

• 69,000 teenagers (7.59%) ages 12-17 reported using drugs in the last month
• 4.63% more likely than average American teen to have used drugs in last month
• 89.86% of youth who used illicit drugs reported marijuana use
• 12.49% used marijuana in the last year
• 0.16% used cocaine in the last year
• 0.09% used methamphetamine in the last year
• 1.94% used pain relievers in the last year
• 3.09% less likely to use alcohol than average American in their age group

Historical Trends (2017-2019)

• 5.8% past-month marijuana use (51,000 youth), similar to national average (6.8%)
• 6.7% past-month illicit drug use (58,000 youth), lower than national average (8.2%)
• 7.2% first-time alcohol use (63,000 youth), lower than national average (9.3%)
• 5.8% first-time marijuana use (50,000 youth), similar to national average (5.2%)
• 1.5% first-time cigarette use (13,000 youth), similar to national average (2.3%)

Georgia youth show mixed patterns of substance use. While alcohol use is lower than the national average, illicit drug use is slightly higher, driven primarily by marijuana use. The state has seen relatively stable rates over recent years, but nearly 90% of youth who used illicit drugs reported marijuana as their primary substance.

Young Adults (Ages 18-25)

Current Use Statistics

Measure	Number (thousands)	Percentage
Illicit Drug Use (Past Month)	254	22.25%
Marijuana Use (Past Year)	367	32.12%
Marijuana Use (Past Month)	253	22.13%
Illicit Drug Use Other Than Marijuana (Past Month)	42	3.70%
Cocaine Use (Past Year)	35	3.03%
Heroin Use (Past Year)	1	0.13%
Hallucinogen Use (Past Year)	68	5.93%
Methamphetamine Use (Past Year)	4	0.37%
Prescription Pain Reliever Misuse (Past Year)	33	2.89%
Opioid Misuse (Past Year)	31	2.74%

Data: 2021-2022 annual averages

Key Findings

• 276,000 adults aged 18-25 used drugs in the last month
• 10.56% less likely to use drugs than average American in same age group

Historical Trends (2017-2019)

• 31.2% past-year marijuana use (345,000), increased from 2002-2004, lower than national average (35.0%)
• 1.1% opioid use disorder (12,000), similar to national average (1.0%)

Young adults show the highest rates of substance use across all age groups, with more than one in five reporting past-month illicit drug use. Marijuana use in particular has increased significantly over time, though use disorder rates have remained relatively stable.

Adults (Ages 26+)

Current Use Statistics

Measure	Number (thousands)	Percentage
Illicit Drug Use (Past Month)	870	12.41%
Marijuana Use (Past Year)	1,135	16.18%
Marijuana Use (Past Month)	788	11.24%
Illicit Drug Use Other Than Marijuana (Past Month)	225	3.21%
Cocaine Use (Past Year)	96	1.37%
Heroin Use (Past Year)	35	0.49%
Hallucinogen Use (Past Year)	144	2.05%
Methamphetamine Use (Past Year)	68	0.97%
Prescription Pain Reliever Misuse (Past Year)	224	3.19%
Opioid Misuse (Past Year)	246	3.51%

Data: 2021-2022 annual averages

Adult substance use rates are lower than those of young adults but still represent a significant public health concern. The large absolute numbers reflect Georgia’s substantial adult population.

Substance Use Disorders

Overall Population (Ages 12+)

Disorder Type	Number (thousands)	Percentage
Any Substance Use Disorder	1,470	16.21%
Drug Use Disorder	839	9.26%
Pain Reliever Use Disorder	161	1.78%
Opioid Use Disorder	175	1.93%

Data: 2021-2022 annual averages

By Age Group

Youth (Ages 12-17)

• 85,000 adolescents have substance use disorder
• 70,000 (7.66%) have drug use disorder
• 10,000 (1.12%) have pain reliever use disorder
• 10,000 (1.14%) have opioid use disorder
• 8.05% met criteria for drug use disorder (DUD) in past year
• 2.54% met criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) in past year

Young Adults (Ages 18-25)

• 267,000 (23.39%) have substance use disorder
• 183,000 (16.04%) have drug use disorder
• 14,000 (1.25%) have pain reliever use disorder
• 15,000 (1.28%) have opioid use disorder

Adults (Ages 26+)

• 1,118,000 (15.95%) have substance use disorder
• 586,000 (8.36%) have drug use disorder
• 137,000 (1.95%) have pain reliever use disorder
• 150,000 (2.15%) have opioid use disorder

National Comparison (Opioid Use Disorder)

• 1.6% of adolescents in Georgia have opioid addiction (national average: 1.1%) – 2nd highest rate nationally
• 2.4% of adults in Georgia have opioid addiction (national average: 2.2%) – 10th highest rate nationally

Historical Trends (2017-2019)

• 5.8% substance use disorder (501,000), lower than national average (7.4%)
• 2.4% illicit drug use disorder (206,000), lower than national average (2.9%)
• 0.5% opioid use disorder (42,000), similar to national average (0.7%)
• 1.5% marijuana use disorder (132,000), similar to national average (1.6%)

Approximately 1.47 million Georgians aged 12 and older meet criteria for substance use disorder, with drug use disorders affecting over 839,000 people. Opioid use disorder rates are particularly concerning, especially among adolescents where Georgia ranks second-highest nationally.

Historical Drug Abuse Patterns

Age-Specific Primary Drug of Abuse (2002-2007)

• Methamphetamine: Primary drug for 22.4% of Georgians ages 21-25
• Heroin: Primary drug for 14.8% of Georgians ages 41-45

Club Drugs and Marijuana

• MDMA and GHB are most commonly abused club drugs statewide
• Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug statewide

Historical data reveals evolving patterns of substance abuse in Georgia, with methamphetamine and heroin showing age-specific prevalence. The state has seen shifts in primary drugs of abuse over time, reflecting changes in drug markets and availability.

Cocaine-Related Statistics

• Over 300,000 ED visits nationally attributed to cocaine overdoses or complications
• Over 15,000 deaths nationally from cocaine overdose or complications (heart attack, stroke)
• Over 12,000 arrests per year nationally involving cocaine
• 3,318 cocaine treatment admissions in Georgia in 2019
• Cocaine usage among college students doubled from 2013 to 2014 after six years of decline and remained high the following year

Cocaine remains a significant public health concern in Georgia, generating substantial emergency department visits and arrests. The drug’s role in cardiovascular complications makes it particularly dangerous.

Prescription Drug Abuse

• 361,000 people (4.62%) of Georgia citizens used pain relievers for non-medical purposes (2008-2009)
• 6.24% of 12- to 17-year-olds used pain relief drugs non-medically (2008-2009)
• 4.5 million Americans used prescription pain relievers non-medically in 2013
• Addicted persons increasingly likely to transition to heroin because it’s cheaper
• People who use illicit drugs may be more likely to abuse prescription painkillers

Prescription pain reliever misuse affects hundreds of thousands of Georgians, with youth showing particularly high rates. The connection between prescription opioid abuse and transition to heroin represents a critical pathway in the addiction cycle.

Opioid Prescribing

• 70.9 opioid prescriptions per 100 persons in 2017 (compared to U.S. rate of 58.7)
• 71 prescriptions per 100 people in Georgia (compared to national average of 59 per 100)
• Lowest prescribing rate since 2006 when data became available
• Doctors write enough prescriptions for 47.3% of residents to have one (recent data)

Georgia has historically had higher opioid prescribing rates than the national average, though rates have declined. The state’s prescribing rate remains concerning as it contributes to the pool of potentially diverted medications that can lead to misuse and addiction.

Opioid-Related Emergency Department Visits

Northwest Health District (1-1) – 2023

By Sex

Sex	ED Visits	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
Male	316	89.9	81.1
Female	284	78.3	54.2
Total	600	84.0	67.5

By Race

Race	ED Visits	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
White	533	91.1	75.4
African American	50	51.7	55.6
Other	13	39.8	44.2
Total	600	84.0	67.5

By Age Group

Age Group	ED Visits	District Rate (per 100,000)	State Rate (per 100,000)
1-4 years	3	—	8.8
5-14 years	1	—	1.7
15-24 years	42	45.3	50.8
25-34 years	192	202.9	123.4
35-44 years	145	154.9	115.6
45-54 years	81	86.4	75.8
55-64 years	79	86.9	74.4
65-74 years	38	55.8	63.2
75-84 years	17	47.5	41.6
85+ years	2	—	50.2
Total	600	84.9	68.2

Emergency department visits for opioid-related overdoses far exceed deaths, indicating both the acute medical need and the opportunities for intervention. The Northwest Health District shows particularly high ED visit rates, especially among males and the 25-44 age groups.

Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NAS/NOWS)

• 410 confirmed cases of NAS/NOWS in 2016 from 47 of 74 birthing facilities
• Opioids confirmed in 20% of cases in 2016
• 5.6 per 1,000 births diagnosed with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in 2020
• National trend: 5-fold increase from 1.5 cases per 1,000 births (2004) to 8.0 cases per 1,000 births (2014)
• One baby born with NAS/NOWS every 15 minutes in the United States
• Hospital costs increased from $91 million (2004) to $563 million (2014) nationally

Neonatal abstinence syndrome represents the devastating impact of the opioid crisis on Georgia’s youngest victims. The rates in Georgia reflect a national trend of increasing opioid use during pregnancy, with significant medical and financial implications.

HIV/AIDS and Injection Drug Use

State Data (Georgia)

2016 New HIV Cases

• 2,709 new HIV cases occurred in Georgia
• 4.2% of new male HIV cases attributed to IDU or male-to-male contact and IDU
• 7.7% of new female HIV cases attributed to IDU

2015 HIV Prevalence

• 49,463 persons living with diagnosed HIV infection
• 588 cases per 100,000 persons
• 12.3% of male cases attributed to IDU or male-to-male contact and IDU
• 15.3% of female cases attributed to IDU

2023 Recent Estimate

150.6 new HIV/AIDS diagnoses connected to intravenous drug use

National Comparison (2016)

New Cases

• 3,480 (9%) of 39,589 new U.S. HIV diagnoses attributed to IDU
• 2,530 (6.3%) transmitted via IDU or male-to-male contact and IDU among men
• 950 (2.3%) transmitted via IDU among women

Prevalence

• 991,447 Americans living with diagnosed HIV (306.6 per 100,000)
• 150,466 males (19.9%) contracted HIV from IDU or male-to-male contact and IDU
• 50,154 females (21%) living with HIV attributed to IDU

Injection drug use continues to be a significant risk factor for HIV transmission in Georgia. While the proportion of new HIV cases attributed to IDU has decreased nationally, Georgia shows concerning rates, particularly among women, highlighting the need for harm reduction services.

Hepatitis C and Injection Drug Use

Georgia Data

• 93 new cases of acute HCV in 2016 (0.9 per 100,000 persons)
• 58,200 persons living with Hepatitis C (2013-2016 annual average)
• 770 cases per 100,000 persons
• 54.6 new cases linked to intravenous drug use in 2022

National Comparison

• 41,200 estimated new cases of acute HCV in U.S. (2016)
• 68.6% of case reports with IDU information indicated use of injection drugs
• 2.3 million Americans living with HCV (2013-2016 annual average)
• 1,141.3 cases per 100,000 persons nationally

Hepatitis C rates in Georgia are lower than the national average, but the disease remains closely linked to injection drug use. The majority of acute HCV cases nationally involve IDU, demonstrating the importance of preventing and treating substance use disorders.

Risk Perceptions

Marijuana Risk Perception (2021-2022)

Age Group	Number (thousands)	Percentage
12+	1,975	21.79%
12-17	222	24.30%
18-25	143	12.56%
26+	1,610	22.96%

Cocaine Risk Perception (2021-2022)

Age Group	Number (thousands)	Percentage
12+	6,438	71.05%
12-17	463	50.79%
18-25	726	63.59%
26+	5,249	74.87%

Heroin Risk Perception (2021-2022)

Age Group	Number (thousands)	Percentage
12+	7,527	83.09%
12-17	518	56.86%
18-25	896	78.43%
26+	6,113	87.19%

Youth Risk Perceptions (2012-2013)

• 35.6% of 12- to 17-year-olds didn’t perceive smoking one pack of cigarettes daily as a big risk
• 56.5% didn’t perceive drinking 5+ drinks once or twice weekly as a big risk

Risk perceptions vary significantly by substance and age group. Generally, older adults perceive greater risk from drug use, while young adults show lower risk perception, particularly for marijuana use. These perception gaps may influence use patterns.

Treatment Facilities and Services

Facilities and Capacity

• 410 active treatment facilities in Georgia
• 13 facilities offer free drug rehab treatment for all patients
• 23,465 patients serviced annually (March 2019 single-day count)
• Decrease from 25,379 patients in 2015

Outpatient Services

• 21,349 patients enroll in outpatient services annually
• $36.50 million (1.58%) of U.S. public total spent on outpatient services
• $1,710 average individual patient cost for outpatient rehab
• $1,710 average cost making Georgia tied for 9th cheapest state

Residential (Non-Hospital) Services

• 1,684 patients enroll in residential services annually
• $93.42 million (1.8%) of U.S. public total spent on residential treatment
• $55,475 average individual cost for residential rehab
• 9th cheapest state for residential drug rehabilitation services

Hospital-Based Services

432 patients enroll in hospital-based drug rehab

Treatment Focus (2019)

• 66.7% received treatment for drug problem only
• 9.7% received treatment for alcohol problem only
• 23.6% received treatment for both drug and alcohol problems

Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)

• 12,230 people receiving methadone in opioid treatment programs in March 2019 (Increase from 11,212 in 2015)
• 1,183 people receiving buprenorphine in March 2019 (Increase from 659 in 2015)

Historical Trends

• 2013: Half of all rehab clients sought treatment for alcohol abuse
• 2011: Marijuana was most commonly cited drug among primary treatment admissions

Georgia maintains a substantial treatment infrastructure serving tens of thousands annually, though the vast majority of services are outpatient. The large gap between those needing treatment and those receiving it (nearly 80% not receiving needed treatment) represents a critical service delivery challenge.

Treatment Needs and Gaps

Overall Population (Ages 12+) – 2022

Measure	Number (thousands)	Percentage
Received Substance Use Treatment	345	3.78%
Classified as Needing Treatment	1,663	18.23%
Not Receiving Treatment Among Those Needing It	1,314	78.79%

By Age Group – 2022

Youth (Ages 12-17)

• 47,000 (5.12%) received treatment
• 115,000 (12.65%) classified as needing treatment
• 69,000 (58.28%) not receiving treatment among those needing it

Young Adults (Ages 18-25)

• 44,000 (3.75%) received treatment
• 279,000 (23.92%) classified as needing treatment
• 244,000 (84.46%) not receiving treatment among those needing it

Adults (Ages 26+)

• 255,000 (3.61%) received treatment
• 1,270,000 (18.01%) classified as needing treatment
• 1,001,000 (79.42%) not receiving treatment among those needing it

A massive treatment gap exists in Georgia, with over 1.6 million people classified as needing substance use treatment but only about 345,000 receiving it. This 79% gap in treatment access represents one of the state’s most significant public health challenges, particularly affecting adults aged 26 and older.

Rehab Admissions by Substance (2019)

Substance	Admissions
Alcohol	13,181
Nonprescription Opiates	7,274
Methamphetamines	6,970
Cocaine	3,318
Heroin	1,865
Total (All Substances)	36,833

Alcohol remains the leading reason for treatment admissions, followed closely by nonprescription opiates and methamphetamines. The high number of methamphetamine admissions (6,970) reflects the growing methamphetamine crisis in the state.

Georgia faces a multifaceted substance use crisis characterized by rising overdose deaths, widespread opioid addiction, significant treatment gaps, and emerging threats from synthetic drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine. While the state performs better than national averages in some metrics, the dramatic increases in deaths (90% over three years) and the persistently high rates of untreated substance use disorders (nearly 80% not receiving needed treatment) indicate urgent need for expanded prevention, treatment, and harm reduction services. The crisis affects all demographics but particularly impacts young adults, middle-aged individuals, and increasingly touches the youngest Georgians through neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. Addressing this crisis will require sustained investment in treatment infrastructure, expanded access to medication-assisted therapy, robust harm reduction programs, and comprehensive prevention strategies targeting youth and at-risk populations.

Statistical Data on Alcohol in Georgia

Georgia faces significant challenges with alcohol consumption and its related consequences. While the state ranks among the lowest in per capita alcohol consumption nationally (46th), excessive drinking still results in substantial mortality, economic costs, and public health impacts. The data reveals concerning patterns of underage drinking, binge drinking behaviors, and alcohol use disorders across different age groups. Georgia’s alcoholic beverage industry has experienced considerable growth over the past two decades, with breweries, wineries, and distilleries all expanding their economic footprint in the state.

Alcohol-Related Deaths and Life Lost

Overall Death Statistics

• Total annual deaths from excessive alcohol use: 3,953
• Deaths per 10,000 adults: 4.83
• Deaths per capita ratio: 1 death per 2,710 people aged 18+
• Years of potential life lost annually: 104,946 years

Death Demographics

• Males: 69.3% of excessive alcohol use deaths
• Deaths from chronic causes (e.g., Alcohol Use Disorder): 55.3%
• Adults aged 35+: 81.6% of deaths
• Under age 21: 3.67% of deaths (143 deaths, 8,387 years of life lost)

5-Year Trend

• The rate of excessive alcohol deaths per capita increased by 46.4% from 2015 to 2019

Excessive alcohol use causes nearly 4,000 deaths annually in Georgia, with the vast majority affecting adults over 35. Males are disproportionately impacted, representing more than two-thirds of fatalities.

Alcohol-Related Deaths (2018-2020 Trend)

Year	Deaths	Rate per 100,000 residents
2019	55	Not specified
2020	61	10.5
% Increase 2018-2020	+26%	—
% Increase 2019-2020	+10%	—

Note: These figures reflect direct alcohol poisoning deaths, not total alcohol-attributable mortality including liver failure, accidents, etc.

Alcohol-related deaths increased dramatically between 2018 and 2020, with a 26% rise over two years and a notable 10% jump from 2019 to 2020 alone.

Alcohol Consumption Rankings

Metric	Georgia Value	National Rank
Average alcohol consumption per capita	1.90 gallons/year	46th
Beer consumption per capita	0.93 gallons/year	39th
Wine consumption per capita	0.25 gallons/year	39th
Percentage of adults drinking excessively	16.8%	33rd
Percentage of alcohol-related driving deaths	23.4%	47th (among lowest)

Georgia ranks as one of the five states with the lowest alcohol consumption in America, yet still experiences significant alcohol-related problems, suggesting that even moderate consumption levels can have substantial public health impacts.

Alcohol Use by Age Group (2021-2022 Annual Averages)

Past-Month Alcohol Use

Age Group	Number (thousands)	Percentage
12-17	63	6.91%
18-25	535	46.87%
26+	3,471	49.51%
18+ (total)	4,006	49.14%
12+ (total)	4,069	44.89%
12-20	179	13.22%

Past-Month Binge Alcohol Use

Age Group	Number (thousands)	Percentage
12-17	28	3.04%
18-25	311	27.24%
26+	1,393	19.87%
18+ (total)	1,704	20.90%
12+ (total)	1,732	19.11%
12-20	93	6.84%

Young adults aged 18-25 show the highest rates of both alcohol use and binge drinking, with nearly half reporting past-month alcohol use and over a quarter engaging in binge drinking.

Youth and Young Adult Alcohol Use (Detailed Breakdown)

Youth Ages 12-17

• Past-month alcohol use (2017-2019): 7.3% (63,000 youth). Lower than regional average (9.2%) and national average (9.4%). Decreased from 2002-2004 levels
• Past-month alcohol use (recent data): 6.7%
• Rank: 23rd nationally

Detailed Age Breakdown (Ages 12-20)

Age Group	Past-Month Alcohol Use	Past-Month Binge Use
12-14	180,000 (13.2%)	92,000 (6.8%)
15-17	13,000 (2.7%)	10,000 (2.1%)
18-20	62,000 (14.2%)	24,000 (5.4%)
Total 12-20	105,000 (23.6%)	59,000 (13.2%)

Young Adults Ages 18-25

• Past-month binge alcohol use (2017-2019): 28.9% (319,000 young adults). Similar to regional average (30.1%), lower than national average (35.4%). Decreased from 2015-2017 levels

Adults Ages 21+

• Past-month alcohol use: 3,838,000 (49.8%)
• Past-month binge alcohol use: 1,591,000 (20.6%)

Age of Initiation

• Average age of first alcohol use: 16.8 years

Youth alcohol use has declined over time, with 2017-2019 rates lower than 2002-2004 levels. Georgia’s youth drinking rates are below both regional and national averages.

Binge Drinking Patterns

Adult Binge Drinking (Ages 18+)

• Prevalence: 15.1% of adults binge drink at least once per month
• Median drinks per binge: 5.3 drinks
• Top 25% of binge drinkers: 7.5 drinks per binge (median)
• Frequency: 1.6 times per month (median)
• Top 25% frequency: 4.1 times per month
• Average drinks per episode: 5.5 drinks (higher than 18 other states and DC)

2022 Data

• 15.2% of adults engaged in binge drinking in the previous 30 days
• National rate: 17% (only 6 states had lower rates than Georgia)

Over 15% of Georgia adults engage in binge drinking, with the most active drinkers consuming significantly more alcohol per episode. The state’s binge drinking rate is lower than the national average, ranking 12th best among states.

Alcohol Use Disorder Prevalence (2021-2022)

By Age Group

Age Group	Percentage with AUD	Number (thousands)
12+ (overall)	9.52%	863,000
12-17	2.58%	24,000
18-25	14.08%	Not specified
26+	9.67%	Not specified
18+ (adults)	10.29%	839,000
12-20	4.77%	Not specified

Historical Trends (2017-2019 compared to 2002-2004)

• Young adults 18-25: 7.2% (79,000) – decreased from earlier period. Similar to regional average (7.8%), lower than national average (9.8%)
• Overall population 12+: 4.2% (361,000) – decreased from earlier period. Similar to regional average (4.5%), lower than national average (5.3%)

Alcohol Use Disorder affects over 10% of adults in Georgia, with young adults aged 18-25 experiencing the highest rates at 14%. Approximately 839,000 adults and 24,000 adolescents in Georgia have AUD.

Risk Perceptions

Perceptions of Great Risk from 5+ Drinks Once or Twice a Week

Age Group	Number (thousands)	Percentage
12+	4,286	47.28%
12-17	413	45.29%
18-25	497	43.52%
26+	3,376	48.15%
18+	3,873	47.50%
12-20	616	45.42%

Approximately 45-48% of Georgians across age groups perceive great risk from having 5+ drinks once or twice weekly, indicating moderate awareness of alcohol-related dangers.

Treatment and Intervention

• Rehab admissions for alcohol addiction (2019): 13,181 people
• DUI arrests (2016): More than 19,000 statewide

Over 13,000 Georgians sought rehab treatment for alcohol addiction in 2019, though this represents only a fraction of those with alcohol use disorder, suggesting significant unmet treatment needs.

Fatal Crashes Involving Young Drivers

• Fatalities involving 15-20-year-old drivers with BAC > 0.01%: 31
• Percentage of all fatal crashes involving 15-20-year-old drivers: 15%

Alcohol impairment contributes to 15% of fatal crashes involving young drivers aged 15-20 in Georgia.

Economic Impact

• Cost to Georgia taxpayers (2010): $6.931 billion
• Adjusted for inflation (2022 US$): $9.357 billion
• Cost per drink: $2.86 (2022 US$)
• Economic impact of excessive alcohol use (2022, CDC estimate): $6.9 billion. Only 9 states had higher alcohol-related costs. National median cost is $3.5 billion

Excessive alcohol use cost Georgia taxpayers nearly $7 billion in 2010, equivalent to $9.4 billion in 2022 dollars. The state also reported $6.9 billion in alcohol-related economic costs in 2022.

Georgia’s Alcoholic Beverage Industry Economic Contribution

Overall Industry Performance

• Gross Final Demand (2022): $2.60 billion
• Gross Final Demand (2001): $1.23 billion
• Growth in last 5 years: Nearly $400 million
• National ranking: 9th
• Percentage of U.S. total GFD: Over 3% (nearly double average contribution per state)
• U.S. total GFD (2022): $80.79 billion

Industry Consumption

• Average consumption per capita (Georgia): 1.9 gallons (4th lowest nationally)
• National average: ~2.5 gallons (2021)
• Average consumption per Georgia resident (2023): 2.0-2.49 gallons

Georgia’s alcoholic beverage industry has more than doubled its economic contribution since 2001, reaching $2.6 billion in 2022. The state ranks 9th nationally in industry contribution, representing over 3% of the U.S. total—nearly double the average per-state contribution.

Breweries

• Number of breweries (current): ~170 affiliated breweries
• National ranking: 18th
• Growth since 2016: More than 3x increase
• Gross Final Demand (2022): Nearly $1.1 billion
• Historical peak GFD: $1.28 billion (2015) and $1.22 billion (2017)
• U.S. national ranking: 2nd largest in worldwide beer production (behind China, 2021)
• U.S. brewery growth: From ~1,600 (2013) to over 5,000 (2020)

Breweries represent the largest alcoholic beverage sector in Georgia with nearly $1.1 billion in economic demand in 2022. The number of breweries has more than tripled since 2016, reflecting the national craft beer boom.

Wineries

• Number of wineries: 48
• National ranking: 17th
• Growth pattern: Significant spike beginning in 2008, accelerated until 2018
• Gross Final Demand (2022): ~$970 million
• Gross Final Demand (2001): $270 million
• Recent trend: Peaked in 2018, declined during pandemic, rebounded sharply in 2021 and continues growing
• U.S. winery growth: From ~1,000 (2001) to over 5,000 (2020)
• U.S. market leader: California (~2,000 wineries)

Georgia’s winery sector has grown from just a handful of establishments to 48 wineries, with economic demand reaching $970 million in 2022 after rebounding from pandemic-related declines.

Distilleries

• Number of distilleries (2021): 33 active
• National ranking: 14th
• 5-year average growth rate: 6% year over year (highest among all three sectors)
• Gross Final Demand (2022): $574 million
• Gross Final Demand (2001): $167 million
• Recent 5-year GFD growth: 9%, 1.3%, 9.4%, 6%, and 8% respectively
• U.S. distillery growth: From 66 establishments (2001) to 1,424 (2021) — over 2,000% increase
• Sharp surge period: Beginning around 2014, biggest increase 2017-2021

Distilleries have shown the most dramatic growth among all alcoholic beverage sectors, with the highest 5-year growth rate averaging 6% year over year. Georgia ranks 14th nationally with 33 active distilleries.

Alcohol Sales by Category

Spirits Volume Sales (2023)

Category	Volume (9-liter cases)	Percentage
Vodka	1,956	23.9%
Cocktails	1,810	22.2%
Tequila	827	10.1%
Straight Whiskey	712	8.7%
Canadian Whisky	534	6.5%
Gin	535	6.5%
Cordials/Liqueurs	515	6.3%
Rum	468	5.7%
Scotch whisky	190	2.3%
Irish whiskey	59	0.7%

Wine Volume Sales (2022)

Category	Volume (thousands, 9-liter cases)
Table	6,266,689
Wine Based Ready-to-Drink	431,792
Champagne & Sparkling	401,728
Dessert & Fortified	209,141
Vermouth & Aperitif	14,994

Beer Volume Sales (2022)

Category	Volume (9-liter cases)	Dollar Sales (millions)
Light	37,304	$2,708
Imported	12,519	$909
Craft	7,485	$543
Super & Super Premium	7,380	$536
FMBs & Hard Seltzer	6,939	$504
Popular	3,919	$284

Consumer preferences vary by beverage type, with vodka dominating spirits sales at nearly 24%, light beer leading the beer category at nearly 50%, and table wine representing the vast majority of wine sales.

Georgia presents a complex picture regarding alcohol consumption. While the state ranks among the lowest in per capita alcohol consumption (1.9-2.49 gallons per person annually), excessive drinking still causes nearly 4,000 deaths and costs the state approximately $7-9 billion annually. The state’s binge drinking rates are lower than the national average, yet alcohol use disorders affect over 860,000 residents, including 24,000 adolescents. Young adults aged 18-25 show the highest rates of problematic drinking, with 14% experiencing alcohol use disorder. Encouragingly, youth alcohol use has declined over time and remains below national averages. The alcoholic beverage industry has experienced robust growth across all sectors—breweries, wineries, and distilleries—contributing $2.6 billion to Georgia’s economy in 2022, with distilleries showing the strongest growth trajectory at 6% annually.

Conclusion

In general, Georgia faces a severe and escalating substance use crisis, with drug overdose deaths increasing 90% over three years and opioids—particularly fentanyl—accounting for nearly three-quarters of all overdose fatalities. While alcohol consumption ranks among the nation’s lowest, excessive drinking still causes nearly 4,000 deaths annually and costs the state approximately $7-9 billion in economic impact. The most alarming challenge is the massive treatment gap: approximately 1.47 million Georgians meet criteria for substance use disorder, yet nearly 80% receive no treatment, leaving hundreds of thousands struggling with addiction to opioids, methamphetamine, alcohol, and other substances without access to potentially life-saving interventions. Addressing this crisis requires urgent expansion of treatment infrastructure, harm reduction services, and evidence-based prevention programs targeting the state’s most vulnerable populations, particularly young adults and middle-aged individuals who bear the highest burden of overdose deaths and substance use disorders.

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