Last Updated on February 17, 2023 by brewthatcoffee
Drinking Starbucks every day can get expensive. That’s why knowing how to get your caffeine fix on a budget is important. Here are the cheapest drinks at Starbucks and some tips for reducing your bill.
Starbucks is a coffeehouse chain with locations all over the world. It’s also one of the most popular places to buy drinks, thanks to its wide variety of options. Many who choose to visit Starbucks do so often, which can be very expensive over time.
That’s why Starbucks regulars tend to stick to budget-friendly drinks they can have daily. If you have been splurging at Starbucks more than you’d like to admit, here are drink options that won’t break the bank.
What is the Cheapest Drink at Starbucks?
The cheapest drink at Starbucks is the ‘short’ hot coffee at around $1.55. You can get your brewed hot coffee in a variety of roasts.
The prices at Starbucks will vary based on your location. For example, a tall latte in Hawaii will set you back at around $3.92. That same tall latte in Mississippi will cost $2.89.
If you are looking for an espresso drink, the next cheapest menu item is the solo shot of espresso. This will cost you about $1.75. The upgrade to doppio (two-shots) is worth it at only 20 cents more.
RELATED: Starbucks Espresso Shots Explained: Sizes & Caffeine
Cost of the Starbucks Drink Types (Lowest-Highest)
Since basic drinks take less labor and use cheaper ingredients, they cost less. Here are the types of drinks Starbucks offers in order from least to most expensive.
In some cases, the cost will depend on the specific drink. For example, some frappuccinos cost more than some lattes, and vice versa. Be sure to confirm the prices with your barista/local menu prior to making a purchase.
- Espresso/Iced Espresso (Cheapest)
- Steamed Apple Juice
- Steamed Milk
- Espresso Macchiato
- Espresso con Panna
- Hot Brewed Coffee
- Hot Tea/Iced Tea
- Iced Tea Lemonade
- Iced Coffee
- Caffe Americano/Iced Caffe Americano
- Caffe Misto
- Hot Chocolate
- Starbucks Refresher
- Cold Brew
- Latte
- Frappuccino (Most Expensive)
Most Cost-Effective Starbucks Size
The ‘Grande’ drink size is the most popular for a reason, it’s the best bang for your buck.
Upgrading to a grande will typically cost you less than 50 cents and will get you 4 more ounces of drink.
To sweeten the deal, if you are ordering an espresso-based drink, ordering a grande will upgrade you to an extra shot of espresso.
RELATED: Starbucks Sizes & Shots of Espresso Per Drink
If you are trying to get the most caffeine possible in one drink, check out the 12 Strongest Drinks From Starbucks.
Best Cheap Starbucks Drinks, Grande Size
Hacks can make ordering drinks too complicated, so we will keep it simple. These are Starbucks’ best budget drink choices that don’t require any tweaks. Drinks like apple juice and plain milk have been left out since they are typically for kids.
Please keep in mind that prices vary between Starbucks locations and may be different in your area. Generally, you can expect these drinks to be less than $5.
Freshly Brewed Coffee – $2.10
A smooth, enjoyable cup of coffee prepared black.
Calories: 5
Sugar (g): 0
Caffeine (mg): 310
Teavana Shaken Iced Tea – $2.25
Shaken iced tea is a premium black tea that’s shaken with ice. It’s the perfect way to cool down and enjoy a delicious, flavorful black tea journey.
Calories: 0
Sugar (g): 0
Caffeine (mg): 25
Iced Coffee – $2.65
Looking for a delicious and refreshing way to cool down on a hot day? Starbucks has you covered with their iced coffee blend! This brew is served chilled and sweetened over ice, making it the perfect treat to enjoy in the warmer months.
Not to mention, the caffeine kick will give you a much-needed energy boost to help you power through your day. Whether you’re looking to beat the heat or just need an afternoon pick-me-up, Starbucks’ iced coffee is sure to hit the spot.
Calories: 80
Sugar (g): 20
Caffeine (mg): 165
Teavana Shaken Iced Black Tea Lemonade – $2.95
This Arnold Palmer–inspired drink is the perfect refresher on a hot day. Premium black tea is shaken with refreshing lemonade and ice for a delicious beverage that will quench your thirst.
Calories: 50
Sugar (g): 11
Caffeine (mg): 25
Teavana Shaken Iced Peach Green Tea Lemonade – $3.25
Looking for a refreshing iced tea that’s both bold and delicious? Look no further than the Iced Peach Green Tea Lemonade! This tantalizing beverage is made with a combination of our peach-flavored fruit juice blend, Teavana® iced green tea and lemonade, and hand-shaken with ice.
It’s the perfect drink to quench your thirst on a hot summer day. So, go ahead and give it a try! We know you’ll love it.
Calories: 80
Sugar (g): 18
Caffeine (mg): 25
Very Berry Hibiscus Starbucks Refresher – $3.45
Made with real fruit juice and whole blackberries, this drink is sure to satisfy your taste buds while giving you the boost of energy you need to power through your day. The Green Coffee Extract provides a natural energy source that is gentle on your body, making this drink the perfect choice for any time of day.
Best of all, it’s served over ice for a cool and refreshing treat. So next time you’re looking for a pick-me-up, reach for a Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher from Starbucks. You’ll be glad you did!
Calories: 70
Sugar (g): 14
Caffeine (mg): 45
Caffe Latte – $3.65
Start your day off with a delicious caffe latte from your favorite coffee shop. Dark, rich espresso is perfectly balanced with steamed milk and a light layer of foam, making it the perfect milk-forward drink to warm you up.
Whether you’re enjoying it at our shop or on the go, the Caffe Latte is sure to please. So come grab one today and start your day off right!
Calories: 190
Sugar (g): 18
Caffeine (mg): 150
Coffee Frappuccino – $3.95
Are you looking for something a little more exciting than your average cup of coffee? How about a Coffee Frappuccino? This blended beverage is made with coffee, milk, and ice for a refreshing and delicious drink.
Calories: 230
Sugar (g): 18
Caffeine (mg): 95
Vanilla Bean Creme Frappuccino – $3.95
With its blend of rich vanilla bean flavor and creamy milk, this frappuccino is the perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth. Topped with whipped cream and simple syrup, it’s a delicious way to cool down on a hot day.
Calories: 380
Sugar (g): 52
Caffeine (mg): 0
Caffe Mocha – $4.15
Need to wake up and face the day? Start with the Caffe Mocha. It’s a rich, full-bodied espresso combined with bittersweet mocha sauce and steamed milk, then topped with sweetened whipped cream. The perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Calories: 370
Sugar (g): 35
Caffeine (mg): 175
Skinny Vanilla Latte – $4.15
The Skinny Vanilla Latte is a secret menu item based on the Blonde Vanilla Latte.
How to Order it:
Vanilla Latte
Swap out whole milk and syrup for non-fat milk and sugar-free syrup.
Cinnamon Dolce Latte – $4.25
Sometimes you need to treat yourself. And when those times roll around, nothing hits the spot like a delicious Cinnamon Dolce Latte.
Your barista adds fresh milk and cinnamon dolce flavored syrup to our classic espresso, then top it with sweetened whipped cream and a cinnamon dolce topping for an irresistibly special drink.
Calories: 340
Sugar (g): 40
Caffeine (mg): 150
Caramel Macchiato – $4.25
What’s not to love about our Caramel Macchiato? It’s the perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a delicious caramel finish. Whether you’re on the go or taking a break in the café, this is one drink that’ll hit all the right notes.
Calories: 250
Sugar (g): 33
Caffeine (mg): 150
Caramel Frappuccino – $4.45
Need a little caramel in your life? The Caramel Frappuccino is made with sweet caramel syrup, coffee, milk, and ice for a delicious blend that’s perfect for any time of day.
Plus, it’s topped off with whipped cream and buttery caramel sauce for an extra special treat. Craving something a little different? Try it affogato-style with a hot espresso shot poured right over the top.
Calories: 380
Sugar (g): 54
Caffeine (mg): 90
White Chocolate Mocha – $4.45
Looking for a sweet escape? The White Chocolate Mocha is the perfect pick-me-up!
For a supremely decadent drink, delicious espresso meets white chocolate sauce and steamed milk. finished off with sweetened whipped cream, this is one coffee you won’t want to miss.
Calories: 430
Sugar (g): 53
Caffeine (mg): 150
Some Honorable Mentions Under $5:
- Mocha Frappuccino – $4.45
- Strawberries & Creme Frappuccino – $4.45
- Iced Caramel Macchiato – $4.45
- Skinny Peppermint Mocha $4.65
- Iced London Fog Tea Latte – $4.65
- Pumpkin Spice Latte – $4.95
- Salted Caramel Mocha – $4.95
- Salted Caramel Frappuccino – $4.95
- Toasted Graham Latte – $4.95
Best Cheap Hot Drinks at Starbucks
- Freshly Brewed Coffee – $2.10
- Caffe Mocha – $4.15
- Cinnamon Dolce Latte – $4.25
- Pumpkin Spice Latte – $4.95
Best Cheap Iced Drinks at Starbucks
- Teavana Shaken Iced Tea – $2.25
- Iced Coffee – $2.65
- Teavana Shaken Iced Peach Green Tea Lemonade – $3.25
What are the Best Sweet Drinks?
- Vanilla Bean Creme Frappuccino – $3.95
- Cinnamon Dolce Latte – $4.25
- Caramel Frappuccino – $4.45
- Strawberries & Creme Frappuccino – $4.45
- Salted Caramel Frappuccino – $4.95
Hacks to Make Your Drink Cost Less
- Bring your own cup/mug to save 10 cents off your drink.
- Order a smaller size. Hot drinks come in an 8 oz cup called the ‘short’.
- Share a larger drink with your friend/partner instead of ordering two smaller sizes.
- Bring your own milk. Order espresso and combine it with your own milk to create a latte.
- Sign up for the Starbucks rewards program for special offers.
- Use your Starbucks rewards status for free coffee and tea refills. For non-members, you can pay 50 cents for a re-fill. So order a smaller size and get that re-fill if time allows.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cheap and delicious drink to perk you up, Starbucks has plenty of tasty options to choose from. Whether you prefer hot or iced drinks, there is something for everyone on this list. So why not treat yourself today?
Since Starbucks offerings can vary by location, your favorite cheap drink may not be on this list. Please share that with us in the comments if that’s the case. As always, thanks for reading!
References:
https://www.starbucks.com