A survey done by 24/7 Wall St, a financial news and opinion company, has placed Pittsburgh as the “drunkest city” in Pennsylvania. The survey polled men and women above the age of 18 who reported heavy or binge drinking. 23% of adults in Pittsburgh stated that they drink heavily, leading the city to the top spot. Pennsylvania ranked 10th on the drunkest state list, with an average report of 20.7%.

There is no shortage of beer in the Pittsburgh area. Allegheny County houses the most draft houses out of all Pennsylvania counties. Earlier this year, Pittsburgh was named the best beer city in the country. Fatal drunk driving accidents are also higher in Pittsburgh, with a rate of 28.4%, comparably higher than the state average of 25.4%.

Why is beer such a big thing in Pittsburgh? It very well may be a German thing. Pittsburgh is known for its great German heritage, with a daily newspaper being printed in German throughout the early 1900’s. Many German towns continue to reside around the Pittsburgh area, including Deutschtown and Harmony. Beer is a major aspect of German culture, especially in celebrations such as Octoberfest.

Whether it be the heavy German culture or the easy access in the area, Pittsburgh now carries the reputation of the drunkest city in Pennsylvania. The true question lies in whether this reputation will last, or if it will become a moment of Pittsburgh history.