The cost of a simple cup of coffee in Switzerland continues to climb. According to the latest data from the CafetierSuisse association, customers paid an average of CHF 4.58 ($5.17) for a café crème in 2024—a CHF 0.09 increase compared to 2023. This marks the fifth straight year of rising prices, with no signs of slowing down.
Regional Variations in Coffee Prices
The price of coffee in Switzerland varies significantly by canton. The cheapest cup can be found in Aargau, starting at CHF 2.50, although the canton’s average price is CHF 4.50. Solothurn offers the lowest average price at CHF 4.45. On the other end of the spectrum, Zurich tops the list for the most expensive coffee, where a café crème can cost as much as CHF 6 in some establishments.
What Drives the Price Hike?
Hans-Peter Oettli, president of CafetierSuisse, attributes the price increases to various factors, including inflation and changing dynamics in surveyed establishments. Over the past decade, coffee prices have risen by CHF 0.36 on average, with increases expected to continue into 2025.
Canton-Specific Averages
- Zug: The most expensive average at CHF 4.84, with no offerings below CHF 4.30.
- Zurich: Second-highest average at CHF 4.78, with some outlets charging CHF 6.
- Solothurn: The cheapest overall at CHF 4.45.
These findings reflect broader economic trends, suggesting that enjoying a cup of coffee at a café in Switzerland is becoming an increasingly costly luxury.
