New research from InvestorsObserver reveals that Phoenix residents save $8.20 per night by switching from alcoholic to non-alcoholic beverages at bars – ranking 13th among 15 major U.S. metros. The alcoholic basket (3 beers + 1 cocktail) totals $35.50, while the NA equivalent costs $27.30.

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Arizona’s average alcohol expenditure is $986 per adult annually. Local bar prices average $7.10 for beer, $14.20 for middle-grade cocktails, $14.20 for wine glasses, $6.40 for NA beer, and $10.60 for mocktails.

Four bar outings per month switching to NA drinks can save $32.80 monthly or $393.60 annually – enough to cover a few months of streaming services or a tank of gas, but far from the life-changing savings Dry January marketing promises.

“In Los Angeles, Dry January can save you $494 a year. In Atlanta, it’s just $67. The same sobriety commitment yields very different financial outcomes by zip code, challenging claims of universal wallet benefits,” explained Sam Bourgi, senior analyst at InvestorsObserver.

In Phoenix, it takes nearly 4 years to save $1,000 by switching to non-alcoholic drinks – enough for one vacation every four years, not the “life-changing savings” touted by Dry January campaigns.

This research challenges the assumption that going sober saves significant money – at least for those still going to bars.

Methodology

InvestorsObserver analyzed more than 100 bars across America’s 15 largest metros using TripAdvisor listings and online menus. Researchers compared mid-tier pricing for alcoholic baskets (3 beers + 1 cocktail) versus non-alcoholic equivalents, calculating savings based on four monthly bar visits. State alcohol spending data from SmartAsset provided comparative context.

ABOUT SAM BOURGI

Sam Bourgi is a finance analyst and researcher at InvestorsObserver, bringing over 13 years of expertise in financial markets, economics, and monetary policy. His professional background spans the private, nonprofit, and public sectors, where he has held positions such as senior policy adviser, labor market analyst, and marketing director. Sam’s in-depth research and market analysis have been referenced by leading institutions and organizations, including the U.S. Congress, Department of Justice, Chicago Board Options Exchange, Bank for International Settlements, Boston University Law Review, Barron’s, and Forbes. Sam regularly appears on TV, including FOX 5 DC, CBN, KFYR TV, 11Alive, and ABC30, and is often quoted by such media outlets as Bloomberg, SF Chronicle and ZeroHedge. 

ABOUT INVESTORS OBSERVER

InvestorsObserver is a trusted source of independent financial analysis, market insights, and investment research for individuals and institutions. Founded to empower retail investors with actionable intelligence, InvestorsObserver delivers timely commentary, data-driven studies, and accessible financial tools designed to simplify complex market trends. Its research and insights have been featured by various media outlets, including Yahoo, The Guardian, Morning Star, Nasdaq, and more.