How does drinking show up in New Mexico?
Understanding how alcohol affects our communities is the first step in making informed choices. Drinking patterns vary across the state, but one thing is clear; cutting back helps, no matter where you start. Below, you’ll find data from the New Mexico Department of Health to help you see the bigger picture.
Quick Snapshot
12.5%
Number of adults that reported binge drinking in 2023, with 45.8% of New Mexicans reporting consuming alcohol within the last month of adults who report binge drinking.
12,092
The number of alcohol-related hospitalizations in NM in 2023. About half of these hospitalizations were due to alcohol-related liver conditions.
Crashes, falls, and other injuries
In 2023, 159 motor vehicle traffic crashes deaths were attributed to alcohol consumption. 19 fall deaths were attributed to alcohol consumption. And 112 suicide deaths were attributed to alcohol consumption.
Underage drinking
In 2023 16.4% of New Mexico high school students and 7.8% of middle school students reported drinking alcohol in the past 30 days.
121
Number of alcohol related homicides in 2023. From 2018-2022 17.5% of abstracted homicides with suspected alcohol use involved intimate partner violence.
1 in 6
Number of New Mexicans that reported excessive alcohol consumption in 2023. Meaning that they consumed 15 or more drinks per week for men or 8 or more drinks per week for women.
Where We See the Highest Impact
Health Costs
Alcohol contributes to liver disease, heart problems, and depression—conditions that are preventable with reduced use.
Safety Risks
Drinking is linked to higher rates of car crashes, injuries, and violence in New Mexico.
Family & Community
Alcohol misuse increases stress in households and puts strain on relationships, schools, and workplaces.