A cup of bubble tea costs between $3.00 and $3.50 USD at a shop when purchased individually (16oz or 20oz serving). On the other hand, the approximate cost of materials to produce it is around $0.75 USD. That equates to a markup of around 350 percent.
Bubble tea, also known as Boba Tea, is a refreshing beverage that includes tea, milk, sugar, and chewy tapioca pearls originating from Taiwan in 1980. Today, it’s enjoyed in hundreds of flavors and styles around the world.
Price Comparison and Factors
According to a survey conducted by Finder.com, the average price of a cup of bubble tea in the US is $3.35, suggesting it is typically more expensive than coffee, which has an average price of $2.70.
The price range for a classic boba milk tea in the United States averages $5.64, with prices ranging from $4.25 to $7.50. Additional flavors or toppings, such as fruit jelly or extra boba pearls, can increase the cost by an additional $0.50 to $1.50.
Preparing Boba at Home vs. Store Prices
When making your own boba at home, the cost is approximately $1.50 per serving. This is significantly cheaper than buying from a shop; buying 10 boba milk teas from home is still less expensive than purchasing just 3 boba milk teas from a store. Generally, boba milk tea prices at cafes and restaurants are considered relatively affordable, costing between $2 and $5 per cup. However, teenagers who frequently purchase boba may find prices of $7 per drink too steep. Boba prices in East Asia often tend to be cheaper than in the U.S.