In 2004, coffee was relatively affordable, with the average cost being just $2.15. Starbucks' price hike that year, raising a tall house blend from $1.40 to $1.50, made headlines. Fast forward to 2024, and the average cost of a regular coffee has climbed to $3.08, according to a report by Toast, a restaurant point of sale and management system. However, this price varies significantly depending on the region. For instance, Hawaii has the highest average price at nearly $5, while Nebraska offers the most affordable coffee at $2.12. Specialty coffees like cold brews and lattes show even more price disparity, with Hawaii and California being the most expensive for cold brews, and Hawaii and Alaska leading in high latte prices. The high cost in states like Hawaii and Alaska is attributed to their remoteness, which increases logistical expenses. Meanwhile, states like Kansas remain more affordable. Despite a slight decline in coffee prices according to the Consumer Price Index, the cost at coffee shops continues to feel steep. Starbucks has introduced a value menu to attract budget-conscious customers, but prices are still significantly higher than they were two decades ago.
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