How Much Does a Cup of Coffee Cost in Different Parts of Australia

Coffee is a beloved beverage in Australia, with a thriving coffee culture that has led to an abundance of cafes and coffee shops throughout the country. However, the cost of a cup of coffee can vary greatly depending on where you are in Australia. In this “Coffee Index,” we’ve gathered information on the average cost of a cup of coffee in different parts of Australia, including major cities and regional areas.

From the bustling streets of Sydney and Melbourne to the tranquil towns of Tasmania, find out how much you can expect to pay for a cup of joe in various parts of the country.

What is the average price of coffee in Australia as of now?

In an article published by ABC News in August of 2022, coffee sellers say the price of coffee has gone up 20-30% in the past 12 months. The average price of a medium, basic coffee is about $5 across the country. The coffee industry warns it could be 12 to 18 months before the price comes down again. In addition to the expense of international freight and labour, other expenses like the wholesale price of caramel syrup have also contributed to the increase in the cost of coffee at cafes.

According to Daniel Mejia, the owner of Colombia Coffee Co, who owns multiple cafes and is a wholesaler of coffee beans on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, people should expect to pay between $4.50 and $5.50 for an average 250ml (8oz) coffee without fancy milk or extra shots of espresso.

It is worth noting that coffee prices may vary depending on the location and type of coffee ordered. Check out our infographic below to see how much a cup of coffee costs in different parts of Australia as of July 2023.

Why are coffee prices rising?

According to the same article, coffee prices are rising in Australia due to several factors. These include:

• Supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have increased costs and reduced availability of coffee beans and other raw materials.

• Rising input costs such as labour, rent, and raw materials, have put pressure on coffee shops and cafes to raise their prices to maintain their profit margins.

• Increasing demand for specialty and high-quality coffees, which can be more expensive to produce and source than basic blends.

• The impact of climate change and other environmental factors on coffee production, can reduce yields and increase costs for farmers and suppliers.

• In 2021, Brazil experienced a massive frost that damaged coffee crops in many regions, leading to a reduction in production. This, in turn, has contributed to the recent rise in coffee prices in Australia and other parts of the world.

Comparing coffee prices all around Australia

We have gathered information from various sources to provide information on coffee prices in different cities and towns across the country. It is also worth noting that other factors such as location, rent, wages, and supply chain disruptions can all contribute to differences in coffee prices.

Victoria

• Flat White = $4.20 – $6.00
• Espresso = $4.50 – $5.00
• Cappucino = $4.50 – $6.80
  
• Latte = $3.50 – $6.80

Victoria is a well-known state for its thriving coffee culture. As of 2023, the average price of a coffee in Melbourne is $5. However, prices can vary depending on the type of coffee, the size of the coffee, and the location of the cafe.

For example, a cappuccino or latte is typically more expensive than a long black or espresso. A large coffee will also be more expensive than a small coffee. And, coffees in central Melbourne are typically more expensive than coffee in the suburbs.

This increase in prices is a concern for both café owners and customers, as it could potentially drive customers towards cheaper alternatives or they may just opt to make their coffee at home.

Furthermore, some café owners are feeling the pressure to increase their prices to keep up with rising costs such as rent, utilities, and staff wages. However, despite these rising costs, Melbourne’s coffee prices remain relatively low compared to other major cities worldwide.

For instance, a single cup of coffee can cost up to $10 in cities like Paris and London.

*Data estimates are based on recent prices from coffee shops around Victoria as of May 2023

New South Wales

• Cappuccino = $3.50 – $6.50
• Latte = $3.50 – $7
• Espresso = $5.00
• Flat White = $4.50 – $6.50

Coffee prices vary widely across different suburbs and towns in New South Wales.

In Sydney’s inner city, an iced latte is significantly more expensive at an average of $7, Additionally, a full-cream small cappuccino in the suburb of Annandale will cost around $3.50. Similarly, in the beach suburb of Coogee, you can nab a regular skim latte for just $4.50, while in Sydney’s shire suburb of Caringbah, a small oat cap with an extra shot is $5.50.

In the NSW town of Gundegai, you can get a sit-in or takeaway coffee for $4.80 for a regular cappuccino. In the Hunter Valley, you can find a regular full-cream cappuccino for just $4. In Sydney’s suburb of Ashfield, a small almond latte costs around $3 to $4.70, and a large takeaway oat chai latte costs $6 at a local cafe in Balmain.

*Data estimates are based on recent prices from coffee shops around NSW as of May 2023

South Australia

• Latte = $4.50 – $5.50
• Cappuccino = $4.70 – $5.50
• Flat White = $4.70 – $5.50
• Espresso = $4.00 – $4.50

South Australia is home to a wide variety of coffee shops, roasters, and baristas. There are cafes on every corner, and the state’s coffee scene is constantly evolving. South Australia’s coffee culture is a vibrant and exciting part of the state’s life, and it is a must-experience for any visitor to the state.

The cheapest city for coffee in Australia is Adelaide, where the average price of a coffee is $4.00 and a latte may cost around $5.50. However, coffee prices in Adelaide may also vary depending on the type of coffee. For example, a cappuccino is typically more expensive than a long black.

*Data estimates are based on recent prices from coffee shops around South Australia as of May 2023

Western Australia

• Latte = $4.60 – $6.50
• Cappuccino = $3.50 – $4.80
• Flat White. = $4.80 – $6.70
• Espresso = $3.80 – $5.20

A cup of takeaway coffee in Western Australia has an average cost of around $4.60. However, prices can vary depending on the suburb you’re in and the type of coffee you’re after.

In the inner-city area, an iced latte can cost around $6.50, while in the northern suburb of Joondalup, a small cappuccino can be found for just $3.50. Other suburbs in Perth, such as Fremantle and Scarborough, offer competitive prices for coffee with regular cappuccinos costing around $4. Meanwhile, in the eastern suburb of Midland, a small soy latte is priced at $4.80.

Despite the fluctuation in prices, Perth’s coffee prices remain relatively low compared to other major Australian cities, making it an affordable place for coffee lovers to enjoy a quality cup of joe.

*Data estimates are based on recent prices from coffee shops around Western Australia as of May 2023

Tasmania

• Latte = $4.95 – $8.70
• Cappuccino = $4.50 – $6.75
• Espresso = $3.50 – $5.20
• Flat White = $4.45 – $6.75

Tasmania is also home to a thriving coffee culture, with a range of specialty coffee shops and roasters throughout the state. Despite being a smaller market than some of the larger cities on the mainland, Tasmanians can still enjoy a quality cup of coffee at a reasonable price.

The average price of a takeaway coffee in Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, is around $4.50. However, prices can vary depending on the type of coffee and the suburb you’re in. For example, in the trendy suburb of Battery Point, a small latte can cost around $5. In the northern suburb of Glenorchy, you can find a regular cappuccino for just $4.50.

Despite the relatively low prices, some cafe owners in Tasmania still feel the impact of rising costs, including rent, wages, and supplies. Some have had to increase their prices to stay afloat, but many still strive to offer affordable and quality coffee to their customers.

*Data estimates are based on recent prices from coffee shops around Tasmania as of May 2023

Queensland

• Espresso = $3.60 – $5.20
• Flat White = $4.30 – $6.50
• Latte = $4.50 – $5.00
• Cappuccino = $4.30 – $6.50

According to Mccrindle, Queensland is one of the most coffee-drinking states in Australia. In a recent survey, it was found that Queenslanders drink an average of 3.6 cups of coffee per day, which is more than the national average of 3.5 cups.

The average price of a coffee in Queensland is $4.50. However, prices can vary depending on the type of coffee, the size of the coffee, and the location of the cafe. Coffees in central Brisbane are typically more expensive than coffees in the suburbs.

*Data estimates are based on recent prices from coffee shops around Queensland as of May 2023