New Study Reveals 10 of the Best Coffee Cities in America
To determine the best coffee cities in the U.S., a new study compared the 100 largest cities across 12 key indicators of coffee lover-friendliness. Our data set ranges from coffee shops, coffee houses and cafés per capita to the average price per pack of coffee to the share of residents with coffee makers at home.
Americans and coffee? It’s a love story. As an American and a self-proclaimed coffee addict, I’m living proof. With deadlines constantly looming over me, my coffee intake fuels me—sometimes, it feels like caffeine is the only thing keeping me afloat.
Do you know that three in four Americans drink coffee daily? That’s practically a national pastime. But let’s be real—our caffeine obsession can get pricey. In coffee-crazed cities, households spend up to $280 a year on their beloved brew. Still, about 30% of us have coffee machines at home, trying to balance the budget while staying caffeinated.
Gone are the days when “coffee” just meant a plain percolated brew at the breakfast table. Now, it’s nitro cold brews at cafes, iced lattes from vending machines, or a quick espresso shot between meetings. If you’re on the hunt for the best coffee cities in the U.S., there are places where you can grab a top-notch espresso on almost every corner.
Portland, Oregon
You and I both know there’s something special about Portland and coffee—like they were made for each other. This city doesn’t just drink coffee; it celebrates it. From cozy cafés with 4.5-star brews to spots perfect for work (hello, free Wi-Fi!), Portland keeps the buzz affordable and welcoming.
Here’s a fun fact: over 24% of Portlanders own electric coffee grinders, and nearly 30% have single-serve brewers. They’re serious about their coffee game! Households here spend an average of $170 a year on coffee, proving it’s more than a drink. It’s a way of life.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco served the West’s first restaurant coffee in 1846—and started commercially roasting it in 1850 (remember Folgers Coffee?). That’s some serious coffee cred! With households spending over $280 a year on coffee and nearly 27% owning electric grinders, it’s no wonder this city ranks second-best for coffee lovers.
If you’re more about sipping out than brewing at home, San Francisco’s got you covered. Affordable cafés are everywhere, and don’t forget the donut shops—because coffee always deserves a sweet sidekick!
Seattle, Washington
There is no doubt Seattle loves coffee. It’s the birthplace of Starbucks, after all! But its coffee story goes way deeper. Pioneer Coffee Company started roasting here in 1910, and the first Starbucks opened at Pike Place Market in 1971. Today, Seattleites spend nearly $240 a year on coffee, and “coffee” is one of their top Google searches.
If you’re not splurging at one of its many coffee shops, chances are you’re brewing at home. With the second-highest percentage of espresso machines in the U.S., all I can say is Seattle’s coffee obsession is pure dedication.
Honolulu, Hawaii
You’ve probably heard Hawaii is a dream for coffee lovers, and it’s true. With rich volcanic soil, perfect elevation, and ideal weather, it’s no wonder Hawaii grows some of the world’s best coffee—right in the coffee belt. Ever tried Kona coffee? It’s so good that even Starbucks sells it (though it is not freshly brewed, sadly).
Honolulu has some of the most affordable top-rated coffee shops, but cappuccinos here don’t come cheap—it ranks fourth for the highest average price. But sipping quality coffee in paradise is totally worth it.
Orlando, Florida
Sure, most of those 70 million Orlando visitors are here for Disney, but skipping the city’s coffee scene is a big mistake. Orlando boasts the second-highest number of coffee shops per capita, and the city has absolutely brewed up a serious love affair with java.
Local gems like Lineage Roasting at East End Market serve craft coffee and educate the community, while Foxtail Coffee in Winter Park is a student favorite. For a feel-good sip, check out donation-based CREDO Coffee, where every cup supports global charitable initiatives.
Tampa, Florida
Locals might love Tampa’s sunny beaches, but they’re just as proud of their thriving coffee culture. If you’re a true coffee lover, head to 22nd Street Coffee in historic Ybor City. Not only is the Cuban coffee amazing, but their “coffee tour” gives you a crash course in Tampa’s rich brewing history. Pair it with Cuban bites, enjoy the cozy décor, and let the baristas whip up your perfect cup.
Tampa’s coffee scene keeps growing, offering standout spots like The Lab Coffee, where art meets science, or Spaddy’s Coffee Co., known for its unbeatable Salted Caramel Cold Brew.
Long Beach, California
Long Beach is brewing up something special with some of the best coffee in Southern California. Fun fact: it’s home to the fifth-highest percentage of adult coffee drinkers and was previously the headquarters of the Specialty Coffee Association for many years. Plus, it once hosted the U.S. Coffee Championships—basically the Super Bowl for coffee lovers!
From roasters like Rose Park Roasters and Black Ring Coffee to cozy spots like Recreational Coffee, this city has it all.
New Orleans, Louisiana
People flock to the Big Easy for gumbo, beignets, and Sazeracs, but let’s not forget its signature chicory coffee. It’s a bold French-style roast blended with chicory root, traditionally served as a café au lait with steamed milk. This rich, smooth brew is as iconic to New Orleans as jazz on Bourbon Street—and worth a sip if you want a taste of the city’s history.
With the fifth most coffee spots per capita and specialty roasters popping up, there’s a cup for every taste. Not into chicory? No problem—New Orleans has plenty of coffee variety!
Austin, Texas
You don’t need an excuse to visit Austin, but coffee lovers have an extra reason to stick around. With some of the lowest coffee prices in the country, the city’s coffee scene is as vibrant as its live music. Whether you’re sipping an espresso or a creative lavender latte, Austin’s coffee shops are where locals gather to connect, create, and caffeinate.
From cozy spots like Fleet and Epoch to coffee trucks like Freewheelin’, Austin offers something special for every coffee lover. Don’t miss local roasters like Flat Track and Civil Goat—true Austin originals!
Miami, Florida
When it comes to coffee, Miami brings the heat—and not just in temperature. With its deep Latino roots, the city offers a rich tradition of Cuban cafecitos alongside a booming specialty coffee scene. Artisanal brews and global beans are now elevating Miami’s coffee game, making it a must-visit for caffeine lovers.
From iced golden lattes at Neverland Coffee Bar to the Nutella cruffins at Caracas Bakery, there’s a brew for every mood. Want something unique? Check out Imperial Moto Café, where coffee meets motorcycles.
Source: WalletHub
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