Data from a representative sample of U.S. adults were analyzed to determine the association between average daily ethanol consumption and DSM-III-R (American Psychiatric Association, 1987) alcohol dependence adjusting for heavier drinking (i.e., drinking 5+ drinks on any one occasion) and sociodemographic variables, including age of onset of drinking and family history of alcoholism. Male gender, early onset of drinking, and drinking 5+ drinks on any one occasion during the past year were all associated with an increased risk of dependence. Factors associated with a decreased risk of dependence were age, being currently married, total body water, and income. The risk of dependence varied among population subgroups and was increased by nonblack race and positive family histories of alcoholism in the respondent's relatives.