Happy National Coffee Day!

Coffee has long been more than just a drink in the United States; it’s a cultural cornerstone. According to PBS, coffee first rose to prominence after the Boston Tea Party, when colonists swapped their teacups for mugs of coffee as an act of patriotism. A few centuries later, Starbucks’ 1971 debut made sure coffee was available on every corner, fueling a modern obsession.

That obsession is measurable. The National Coffee Association reports that 66% of Americans now drink coffee every single day, accounting for a staggering 519 million cups consumed daily.

So what gave rise to this java culture? Science certainly played a role. Studies have highlighted caffeine’s benefits beyond that morning jolt, suggesting it can contribute to longevity when consumed in the right amounts. But coffee’s power goes deeper — it’s social. From office breakroom pots to cozy cafés, coffee has become the backdrop for first dates, brainstorming sessions, and catch-ups with friends.

Local coffee cultures also thrive in unique ways. WalletHub recently compared America’s 100 largest cities across a dozen factors, from cafés per capita to the cost of a pack of beans. The results highlighted where coffee lovers can get the best fix without breaking the bank.

Portland, Oregon, is number one on their list. Austin is in the top ten, and Houston is ranked in the top 25.

Still, there’s no denying the costs can add up. Analyst Chip Lupo notes households in coffee-crazy cities may spend as much as $327 a year on java, though a third of Americans offset that by brewing at home.

Enjoy every cup!

Happy National Coffee Day, sip proudly.

Doug O’Brien