Whether you go to Starbucks every day or save it for special occasions, one thing is for sure: it’s an expense. Starbucks is a go-to spot for coffee and tea for many people, but it really punctures a hole in their wallets. Here are some alternatives that will give you that great Starbucks taste for a lesser price.
Dunkin’: Matcha and chai tea lattes
Many may say that Dunkin’s coffee is a bit too sweet, but it all depends on what you get. If you love ordering vanilla chai tea lattes at Starbucks, Dunkin’ is a good place to get the same drink for way less. Instead of paying $4 for a tall vanilla chai tea latte at Starbucks, pay $4 for a large at Dunkin’ — trust me, it tastes the same. The same goes for green matcha iced lattes. In fact, I would say the matcha iced latte at Dunkin’ tastes better than the one at Starbucks — and it doesn’t hurt my wallet.
Chick-Fil-A: Iced coffee
If your go-to iced coffee is vanilla or original, Chick-Fil-A gives you quality for a lesser price than Starbucks. For only $2 for a medium and $3 for a large, you’re getting delicious iced coffee without even reaching $5. Your wallet will definitely thank you for it.
McDonald’s: Frappuccinos
Starbucks really rose to fame with its signature frappuccinos, but did you know you could get them elsewhere too? McDonald’s McCafe frappes cost way less than the ones at Starbucks and taste very similar. Looking for a caramel, vanilla, mocha or cookies and cream frappe? McDonald’s has got you covered for a fraction of the price. Here, you can pay as low as $1 for a small, which is a sweet treat in and of itself.
Local coffee shops: All of the above
While Starbucks gets a lot of hype, oftentimes, the best place for coffee and tea is your local coffee shop. There are many coffee shops near NSU, including The Groves Coffee House, The Neutral Ground Cafe and Constant Grind, that serve a variety of coffees and teas, similar to those at Starbucks, but for a lesser price. In addition, when you go to a local coffee shop, you’re helping a small business, which is something very much needed in times like these.
Starbucks may get its rep for its name and customer service, but as college students, we shouldn’t be spending all our money on a coffee fix. You can great quality drinks with great customer service elsewhere — and for way cheaper, too.
