By Aliza, founder and editor of Menu Info. Updated October 2026.
A daily coffee habit can cost a surprising amount over a year, and prices vary a lot between chains. We compared typical drink prices at five popular coffee chains, from Starbucks and Dunkin' to the fast growing drive thru brands Dutch Bros, 7 Brew and Scooter's Coffee, so you can see who charges what and how to get more for your money.
Prices below are typical US prices for a medium drink in October 2026. Coffee chains are often franchised or set prices by region, so your local store may charge more or less.
Medium latte prices compared
| Chain | Medium size | Typical latte price | Known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dunkin' | Medium, about 14 oz hot | About $4 to $5 | Lower prices and donuts |
| Starbucks | Grande, 16 oz | About $5 to $6 | Seasonal drinks and a big rewards program |
| Dutch Bros | Medium, 16 oz hot | About $5 to $6 | Sweet signature drinks and Rebel energy drinks |
| 7 Brew | Medium | About $5 to $6 | Fast drive thru stands and a huge flavor list |
| Scooter's Coffee | Medium, about 16 oz | About $5.75 for a Caramelicious | The Caramelicious and drive thru kiosks |
Drip coffee and cold brew
If you drink plain coffee, the price gap between chains is smaller, and almost every chain is much cheaper for brewed coffee than for espresso drinks.
| Drink | Typical price range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medium hot brewed coffee | About $2.50 to $3.75 | Usually the cheapest drink on the menu |
| Medium iced coffee | About $3 to $4.50 | Dunkin' is usually the cheapest |
| Medium cold brew | About $4 to $5.50 | Smoother and stronger, costs more |
| Flavored specialty drink | About $5 to $7 | Seasonal drinks are usually at the top of the range |
What each chain does best
Dunkin'
Dunkin' is usually the cheapest of the big chains for both hot and iced coffee, and its breakfast sandwiches and donuts make it a good one stop morning order. Its rewards program gives points toward free drinks.
Starbucks
Starbucks costs more but offers the widest menu, from espresso drinks to teas, refreshers and seasonal favorites like its fall drinks. Its rewards program is one of the most generous in the industry for frequent visitors.
Dutch Bros
Dutch Bros is known for sweet, customizable drinks and its Rebel energy drink line. Its friendly drive thru service has built a loyal following, especially in the West.
7 Brew
7 Brew focuses on speed, with small drive thru stands and staff taking orders on tablets in the line. It offers a very long list of flavor combinations, plus energy drinks and smoothies.
Scooter's Coffee
Scooter's is a Nebraska based drive thru chain best known for the Caramelicious, a caramel latte with caramel drizzle. Almost every location is a franchised kiosk, so prices vary by owner.
What a daily habit costs
| Drink | Price per drink | 5 days a week for a year |
|---|---|---|
| Brewed coffee | About $3 | About $780 |
| Latte | About $5.50 | About $1,430 |
| Seasonal specialty drink | About $6.50 | About $1,690 |
Switching from a specialty drink to brewed coffee on most days can save several hundred dollars a year.
How to save on coffee
- Join the rewards program at the chain you visit most. Free drinks add up quickly.
- Order in the app to see app only offers, such as discounted drinks on certain days.
- Size down or choose brewed coffee on ordinary days and save specialty drinks for treats.
- Go easy on add ons. Extra shots, flavor syrups, cold foam and non dairy milk can each add to the price.
- Bring a reusable cup. Some chains offer a small discount or bonus rewards for it.
Frequently asked questions
Which coffee chain is the cheapest?
Dunkin' is usually the cheapest of the big coffee chains for both hot and iced coffee.
How much is a latte at Starbucks?
A grande latte typically costs about $5 to $6, depending on location and milk choice.
Is Dutch Bros more expensive than Starbucks?
Prices are similar for comparable drinks, though both vary by location.
What is the most popular drink at Scooter's Coffee?
The Caramelicious, a caramel latte topped with caramel drizzle.
How can I save money on coffee?
Use rewards programs and app deals, choose brewed coffee more often, and limit paid add ons.
See full drink and food menus with typical prices on our restaurant menu pages. Prices are typical US prices and vary by location. Menu Info is not affiliated with any coffee chain mentioned.