Starbucks Is Changing Drink Prices This Week—Here's Why It's a Good Thing

If you frequent your local Starbucks, you may have noticed that ordering your coffee with dairy milk is much cheaper than subbing in almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk or soy milk. In fact, it can be more than 10% more expensive to go dairy-free—and for those who have allergies, are lactose-intolerant or have dietary preferences, this swap is a necessity.

But starting November 7, the coffee chain is adjusting their prices for the better. Now, you can customize your coffee order with your go-to dairy-free milk alternative without an extra charge. 

This announcement follows a March 2024 lawsuit in California claiming that the extra $0.50 to $0.80 fee per drink was violating the Americans with Disabilities Act for lactose-intolerant individuals. Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol noted in a recent release that “by removing the extra charge for non-dairy milks we’re embracing all the ways our customers enjoy their Starbucks.” 

By removing the extra fee, this means that you can order your pumpkin spice latte with oat milk, and it will now cost the same amount as a pumpkin spice latte with whole milk. Not only will this change save you money, but milk alternatives can be a healthy option. While dairy milk has more protein than plant-based milks, these alternatives are lower in fat and saturated fat. If you’re subbing in milk alternatives over cow’s milk in your coffee drink, make sure to get in a source of protein in your breakfast, like yogurt, eggs or nuts.

Our associate editorial director Carolyn Malcoun’s family is especially excited about this update. “While my husband isn't vegan, he avoids animal products—particularly milk—so he typically orders his coffee drinks with oat milk,” she says. “He's so excited to not have to pay an upcharge next time our tween daughter insists they go to Starbucks!” 

Also on November 7, Starbucks will be launching their holiday menu, and fingers crossed that the Cookie Butter Cold Brew and Peppermint Mocha Latte will be making a swift return—just in time to enjoy the lower price for dairy-free versions.