Why American Youth Are Choosing Tea Over Coffee

In the United States, where coffee culture runs deep, it might surprise some to learn that younger Americans are shifting away from their morning cup of joe. Despite the country’s long-standing love affair with coffee—averaging 23 gallons per person annually as recently as 2013—the tides are quietly turning. Today, more young people are reaching for something else: tea.

The short answer? Yes—American youth are drinking less coffee. According to research by YouGov, while 42% of Americans under 30 choose coffee, an equal 42% now prefer tea. Since the year 2000, tea consumption has grown 20%, marking a clear shift in generational taste.

Coffee’s Long Reign, Now Fading

The United States has long ranked among the top coffee-consuming nations globally, second only to the European Union. In 2013, the average American drank 23 gallons of coffee per year. But those numbers tell only part of the story. While older demographics remain loyal, younger consumers are not following the same path.

Tea Gains Ground Among Millennials and Gen Z

Among Americans aged 30 and under, neither coffee nor tea dominates. A 2023 YouGov study found that both beverages are equally popular, each chosen by 42% of respondents. This generational parity marks a major shift. The rise in tea drinking is often attributed to its perceived health benefits, with green tea leading the trend. Since the year 2000, overall tea consumption in the U.S. has increased by 20%—a strong signal of changing preferences, especially among younger people.

Older Americans Still Love Their Coffee

While youth lean toward tea, coffee remains the drink of choice for older Americans. Among those aged 65 and over, a commanding 70% say they prefer coffee, compared to just 21% who favour tea. This generational divide highlights a key dynamic: while coffee still holds strong with the older population, its dominance among younger cohorts is slipping—and may continue to decline over time.

What This Means for the Future

As younger generations increasingly opt for tea, the long-term trajectory for coffee in the U.S. could shift. With 42% of under-30s now choosing tea and a 20% increase in tea consumption since the turn of the millennium, the balance of America’s beverage preferences is evolving. The coffee industry may need to adapt to these generational changes if it hopes to maintain its cultural and economic foothold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are young Americans really drinking less coffee than before?

Not necessarily less than before, but they are now equally likely to choose tea. Among Americans under 30, 42% prefer coffee and 42% prefer tea, showing a generational parity for the first time.

How much has tea consumption grown in the U.S. since 2000?

Tea consumption in the United States has increased by 20% since the year 2000, reflecting a significant upward trend, particularly among younger drinkers.

Why are young people choosing tea over coffee?

The shift is largely attributed to the perception that tea, especially green tea, offers health benefits. This has made tea more appealing to health-conscious Millennials and Gen Z.

Do older Americans still prefer coffee?

Yes. Among Americans aged 65 and older, 70% say they prefer coffee, compared to just 21% who prefer tea, showing strong generational loyalty to coffee among seniors.

Will coffee lose its dominance in the U.S. in the future?

It may. With tea consumption rising and younger generations showing equal or greater preference for tea, coffee’s long-held dominance could decline over time if current trends continue.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Tea Lovers

If you're exploring drinks beyond coffee, FrontStreet Coffee’s Specialty Blend offers bright acidity and fruity complexity that might appeal to tea drinkers transitioning to specialty brews. For something closer to a warm drink experience, try their Classic Blend with its balanced nuttiness and mild sweetness. Both roasts highlight the care and clarity specialty roasters bring to every cup—without needing a coffee machine. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.