How Much Will a Takeaway Coffee Cost in 5 Years?

The Morning Habit That’s Getting Pricier

Every morning, thousands of us queue for our Flat whites, Cappuccinos, and Americanos. It’s a small ritual that fuels the day, but it’s also getting noticeably more expensive. With prices creeping up year after year, many are asking: how much will a takeaway coffee cost in 5 years’ time? The answer provides a simple but powerful lesson about inflation.

The Price of Coffee Today

In Ireland, the average cost of a takeaway coffee ranges between €3.50 and €4.50, depending on the location. City-centre cafés tend to charge more, while suburban spots offer slightly lower prices.

At first glance, that might not sound like much for a daily treat. But multiply it by 5 days a week, 50 weeks a year, and you’re spending €875 to €1,125 annually just on coffee.

Understanding Inflation

Inflation is the gradual increase in prices over time. In practical terms, the money in your pocket today won’t buy as much tomorrow.

Ireland’s inflation has fluctuated recently, with food and drink among the most affected categories. While price growth is expected to slow, it’s unlikely to stop. Even a modest annual inflation rate of 3% steadily raises the cost of everyday items like your morning coffee.

Projecting Coffee Prices in 5 Years

Here’s a simple projection, assuming 3% inflation each year:

• Current price: €4.00

• In 1 year: €4.12

• In 3 years: €4.38

• In 5 years: €4.64

That means your €4.00 coffee could cost almost €4.65 by 2030. If inflation runs higher at 5%, it could reach €5.10 in the same period.

Why It Matters Beyond Coffee

A small jump from €4.00 to €4.65 might seem trivial, but inflation compounds across your entire lifestyle – from groceries and utilities to holidays and retirement costs.

For long-term financial planning, understanding inflation is crucial. It quietly erodes your purchasing power, meaning that saving cash alone isn’t enough to maintain your standard of living.

This is reflected in the CCPC’s 2025 Pensions Research Report, where 32% of respondents with a pension said they wish they had started saving earlier. Inflation plays a key role in that regret, as many realise too late how much more their retirement income will need to stretch in future years.

Final Thoughts

Your morning Latte is more than just a pick-me-up – it’s a reminder of how inflation touches every aspect of daily life. In 5 years’ time, your takeaway coffee will almost certainly cost more. The question is: will the rest of your finances keep pace?

At Chartered Capital, we help families and business owners plan ahead so your lifestyle and long-term goals stay protected against inflation.
Book a confidential consultation today and start planning for the future, one coffee at a time.