Prostitutes and Drugs 12-27-25

Studies indicate a strong link between prostitution and substance use, but a single, definitive percentage for all U.S. prostitutes on illegal drugs is not available due to data collection challenges and variations in populations. Research often focuses on specific sub-groups and reports a wide range of prevalence estimates, generally much higher than the general population.  

Key findings from various studies include:

A 2021 review of global studies (from 2009-2018) found that among studies focusing on North America, the pooled prevalence of lifetime illicit drug use among female sex workers was estimated to be as high as 84%.

One study found that approximately 73% of women entered the sex trade to get drugs, and 86% cited getting drugs as a reason for their current sex work.

Specific local studies have reported high rates of drug use, such as one study in New York City which found roughly 26% of prostitutes were homeless and addicted to illicit drugs.

In specific samples of street-based female sex workers, studies have shown high percentages of recent substance use, with one study reporting 70.8% had injected drugs in the past three months and 83.6% had smoked crack cocaine. 

The prevalence varies based on the specific type of sex work (e.g., street-based vs. indoor escort services), the types of drugs, and the methodology of the study. Research consistently highlights that the need to fund drug habits is a primary driver for entering and remaining in prostitution for many individuals. 

Drug use among sex workers in the United States varies significantly depending on the sector of the industry (e.g., street-based vs. escort services) and the type of drug. 

Prevalence in North America: A global review published in 2021 found that the pooled prevalence of lifetime illicit drug use among female sex workers in North America is approximately 84%.

Sector Differences: Drug use is significantly more common among street-based sex workers than those in indoor or escort environments.

Street-based sex workers: Reported substance use rates as high as 84%.

Indoor/Escort-type workers: Reported significantly lower rates, at approximately 13%.

Motivations for Entering Sex Trade: In studies of marginalized female sex workers, 73% reported entering the trade specifically to obtain drugs, and 86% cited obtaining drugs as a primary reason for their current sex work.

Specific Drug Use: Among those who use drugs, surveys have indicated high rates for specific substances:

Marijuana: Reported by 93% of a sampled group in New York.

Cocaine: Reported by 83%.

Heroin: Reported by 72%.

Homelessness and Addiction: Approximately 26% of New York City prostitutes were estimated to be both homeless and addicted to hard drugs like crack, cocaine, or heroin. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=what+percent+of+us+prostitutes+on+illegal+drugs

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader