Questions like “How much does Starbucks coffee cost?” have become increasingly common. Prices have risen steadily over the past several years, and many people have begun to wonder if they are honestly getting their money’s worth. In order to get a better idea of the costs associated with Starbucks coffee, let’s take a look at the factors that influence pricing.
Most coffee lovers know that Starbucks uses high-quality coffee beans for their beverages. These beans are sourced from all over the world, with some of the more popular countries being Ethiopia, Costa Rica, Colombia and Guatemala. The major factor affecting the price of coffee is its origin. For example, coffee that is sourced from Ethiopia is often more expensive than coffee from Colombia. Starbucks combines different coffee beans from different areas to create its signature flavors. This complexity contributes to the overall cost of their coffee.
In addition to the quality of the beans in the coffee, the size of the drink also affects the price. Generally, the more liquid in your drink, the more expensive it will be. Venti-sized beverages, for example, are usually more expensive than a Tall-sized beverage. This is true for both hot and iced drinks.
Specialty drinks such as frappuccinos, Starbucks’ signature drinks, usually come with an additional charge. This is because additional ingredients such as syrups and creams are used to create these unique beverages. Certain drinks also require more labor and extra steps in order to make them, resulting in an increase in cost.
Finally, drinks that come with special add-ons such as flavored shots, espresso, or extra-hot options may cost more than standard drinks. For example, a Venti-sized Latte with an extra shot of espresso costs around three dollars, while a standard Venti latte costs around two dollars and twenty-five cents.
Price Ranges
In general, Starbucks prices range from $1.95 for a 12-ounce Tall brewed coffee to $5.25 for a 24-ounce Trenta-sized Latte. Starbucks flavored, brewed and Frappuccino beverages also cost anywhere from $2.75 to $5.25, while espresso-based beverages typically range in price from $2.95 to $4.75. Prices may also vary from location to location.
Discounts & Rewards
Starbucks offers many ways for customers to save money on their coffee, such as the “Pay it forward” program and the Starbucks “My Rewards” program. During the “Pay it forward” program, customers can buy a cup of coffee for the person in line behind them, or they can pay for someone else’s order. Doing so rewards all customers with a free tall beverage of their choice. Starbucks also has its “My Rewards” program, where customers can earn points and redeem rewards such as a free beverage on their birthday.
In addition, Starbucks also offers discounts to military members, veterans and teachers. The discounts vary by store, but customers can usually expect to receive 10% off their order.
Other Options
For those who are looking for a more affordable option, there are plenty of alternative ways to enjoy coffee. Many local grocery stores such as Wal-Mart, Target and Kroger sell pre-ground coffee and coffee pods for a fraction of the price of Starbucks coffee. These stores also often run deals and sales on select brands, resulting in even cheaper prices.
In addition, customers can also go to restaurants and order coffee for a lower price than Starbucks. Many restaurants offer coffee for less than two dollars, and often have flavored syrups available to customize their drinks. Finally, customers can also purchase brewing equipment and make their own coffee at home. Brewers such as French presses are relatively inexpensive, and once the initial purchase has been made, the coffee is almost free.
DIY Coffee
Brewing your own coffee at home may take a bit of practice, but it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Home-brewed coffee is also much less expensive than Starbucks, since you are only paying for the ingredients. Customers can purchase coffee beans, ground coffee, and brewing supplies from stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, and Amazon, as well as from specialty stores.
Making coffee at home requires more of an investment in both time and money, but for many, the end result is worth it. In addition to the customization options, coffee made at home can produce a fresher and more intense flavor. This is due to the fact that most pre-ground coffee has already lost some of its flavor and aroma.
Besides learning how to brew coffee, aspiring coffee-lovers can also experiment with flavors and ingredients. For example, Mosto Coffee Company offers a range of syrups and flavorings such as salted caramel, coconut, and mocha that can be used to customize your coffee. These syrups are usually much cheaper than many of the flavors found at Starbucks, and the variety is definitely worth exploring.
Reusables
In addition to providing discounts and rewards, Starbucks also offers customers the option to purchase reusable cups. These cups are typically made of stainless steel and come with a silicone lid. They are designed to keep drinks hot or cold for longer periods of time, and most come with a discount when used to purchase drinks from Starbucks. In general, customers can expect to receive ten cents off their drink when they bring their own cup.
Reusable cups also come in many different styles and colors, so customers are sure to find a cup that suits their personality. These cups are also much more eco-friendly than paper or plastic cups, as they can last for many years with proper care. Of course, reusable cups can also be used to brew coffee at home and enjoy Starbucks flavors wherever, whenever.
Making the Choice
With so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when trying to decide which type of coffee to buy. Ultimately, the best decision always comes down to personal preference. Customers should consider the cost, taste and convenience when making their choice. Only they can decide which option is best for them.
