Specialty Coffee Consumption in the United States Reaches Record High
Washington, September 9, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The Fall 2025 National Coffee Data Trends report, published by the National Coffee Association, shows that specialty coffee consumption in the United States has reached its highest level on record. Fifty-seven percent of Americans reported drinking specialty coffee at least once in the past week, a figure that matches the highest level ever recorded and confirms that specialty coffee has become a central part of everyday life across the country.
The report also highlights the strong role of younger generations, with forty-six percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 24 saying they consumed specialty coffee on the day before the survey was conducted, the highest daily rate since 2020. Analysts attribute this trend to the integration of younger consumers into modern coffee culture, their preference for higher quality and innovative experiences, and the growing popularity of coffee-related social events that encourage sharing and discovery.
The study notes that new preparation methods are fueling this growth. Cold brew consumption rose to seventeen percent, an increase of three percentage points compared with the start of the year, while ready-to-drink coffee beverages reached nineteen percent, up four points. These figures reflect the American consumer’s attraction to options that combine convenience and freshness, particularly during warmer months.
Industry observers say the expansion of specialty coffee consumption opens new opportunities but also presents challenges. Large chains are benefiting from the growth of app-based orders and drive-thru services, while independent cafés and roasters are finding their strength in providing higher quality products, origin transparency, and stories of sustainability. This balance between convenience and authenticity is expected to shape the future of the U.S. coffee market.
The significance of this growth is underscored by the size of the overall industry, valued at 343 billion dollars. Specialty coffee is no longer just a matter of personal taste or social trend but a powerful economic sector in its own right. With rising consumer awareness of origin, production methods, and environmental certifications, specialty coffee is expected to continue strengthening its position both domestically and internationally.
The findings suggest that the United States has moved beyond the so-called third wave of coffee, which focused on artisanal preparation, and is entering a new phase that blends quality with convenience and social experience. For a new generation of consumers, coffee is no longer simply a morning beverage but an evolving lifestyle choice that reflects broader shifts in consumer culture.
