Buying coffee every day seems like the norm for many, but I was never the type to buy coffee every day. Last year, things changed. In 2016 I got a job, took more challenging classes, and thought I owed it to myself to purchase a daily cup of joe. I figured it was the least I could do for myself. Every day, I would find myself walking into a Starbucks or a Dunkin Donuts to get my hands on a cup of coffee. I'd buy a cup daily, sometimes even two.
The Problem
I found myself refilling my Starbucks card twice a week. I would typically order a grande, or a medium cup. Although I typically drink my coffee black, I do like to add some flavor to it here and there. I'd say, that on average, it would cost me between $3-4 a cup. While in the moment spending $3-4 doesn't sound too bad, spending this much every day on something I could make at home, does. Eventually I realized that this was becoming a problem, and it could no longer fit my lifestyle or my bank account.
Most college students can't go a day without having a cup of coffee and make a habit of buying one every day. But how many go without realizing how much they're actually spending each month (or each year) with this habit? Sure we all love coffee, but is it worth spending over a $1,000 a year on a cup you could probably make for $0.50 a day? That's right—THOUSANDS of dollars.
Imagine what you could do with that much money (you could be spending it on more food, duh). Let's say on average I'd spend $3.50 on coffee daily, which would cost me $24.50 a week, $105 a month, and $1,277.50 a year (give or take some). This is if I was consistent with my $3.50 coffee, but I don't always buy the same drink. I love trying new things, so this doesn't factor in my trying the holiday drinks or other lattes which would occasionally cost me around $5+ each time.
The Solution
When I figured this out, I stopped buying coffee every day and started making it at home. It was difficult to stop the habit at first, but I did it. I still treat myself to a cup every once in a while— maybe once every other week or when I'm crunched on time.
I finally found a grind I love from my favorite joint (which is Trader Joe's), and I drink it almost every morning now. I make it the old-fashioned way in five minutes—with a mug, a funnel, hot water, and filter.
I feel better knowing that I have my morning pick-me-up while I'm saving money. If you’re someone who buys coffee every day, and you're looking for ways to save money on your daily dose of caffeine, I have some advice for you.
Tips to Save
1. Go on a coffee hunt, find a grind you love, and buy it. It will cost you anywhere from $5-$15+ depending on your taste. But it will also provide you with ample servings.
2. Buy a funnel (super cheap) and coffee liners, a mug you love to make your coffee in, and a tumbler for mornings on the go.
3. Set your alarm five minutes earlier to have time to make your coffee. I know setting your alarm earlier than it already is can be a pain and a struggle, but think about the line you'll be avoiding if you just make your coffee at home.
4. Before you walk into a Starbucks or a Dunkin' Donuts, ask yourself—is it really worth the extra money?
5. Use this guide to make your homemade coffee better.
I stopped buying coffee every day and I have already saved $1,000. Sure, it was difficult to do at first. Yes, it takes me a few extra minutes in the morning to make myself a cup. But when you really think about it, time is money and now I'm saving both.