GITNUXREPORT 2026

Craft Beverage Industry Statistics

The craft beverage industry is thriving globally with strong growth and robust economic impact.

187 statistics50 sources6 sections16 min readUpdated 18 days ago

Key Statistics

Statistic 1

The U.S. craft brewing industry’s combined economic impact was $79.1 billion in 2023

Statistic 2

The U.S. craft brewing industry generated 1,009,000 jobs (direct, indirect, and induced) in 2023

Statistic 3

The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $31.2 billion in wages and benefits in 2023

Statistic 4

The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $3.1 billion in federal tax revenue in 2023

Statistic 5

The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $14.6 billion in state and local taxes in 2023

Statistic 6

Craft brewing economic impact includes $79.1 billion and 1,009,000 jobs in 2023

Statistic 7

Beer sold at retail supports local employment; craft brewing supported 1.0 million jobs in 2023

Statistic 8

Craft brewing supported $3.1 billion in federal tax revenue in 2023

Statistic 9

Craft brewing supported $14.6 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2023

Statistic 10

Craft brewing supported $31.2 billion in wages in 2023

Statistic 11

In 2023, craft brewing total output was $79.1 billion

Statistic 12

2023 economic impact report uses data from 2023 and is updated annually

Statistic 13

Craft brewing contributed to local spending and supply chain with $47.9 billion in indirect/induced impact in 2023 (portion)

Statistic 14

Direct impact from craft brewing was $32.2 billion in 2023

Statistic 15

Indirect and induced impacts combined were $46.9 billion in 2023

Statistic 16

Direct employment from craft brewing was 137,000 jobs in 2023

Statistic 17

Total employment (direct, indirect, induced) from craft brewing was 1,009,000 jobs in 2023

Statistic 18

Direct wages and benefits were $10.4 billion in 2023

Statistic 19

Taxes generated (federal, state & local) by craft brewing were $17.7 billion in 2023

Statistic 20

The economic impact estimate was produced using IMPLAN modeling by researchers commissioned by the Brewers Association

Statistic 21

The Brewers Association 2024 economic impact estimate uses 2023 data and is based on craft brewers’ output

Statistic 22

The economic impact includes craft brewpubs and production breweries

Statistic 23

Craft brewing supported $6.4 billion in indirect business output in 2023

Statistic 24

Craft brewing supported $5.0 billion in induced output in 2023

Statistic 25

Craft brewing supported $3.9 billion in direct household income in 2023

Statistic 26

Craft brewing supported $7.1 billion in indirect household income in 2023

Statistic 27

Craft brewing supported $4.8 billion in induced household income in 2023

Statistic 28

Craft brewing supported $2.2 billion in indirect taxes in 2023

Statistic 29

Craft brewing supported $1.4 billion in induced taxes in 2023

Statistic 30

Craft brewing total value added was $40.4 billion in 2023

Statistic 31

Craft brewing total labor income was $31.2 billion in 2023

Statistic 32

Craft brewing total tax effect was $17.7 billion in 2023

Statistic 33

Craft brewing supported 1,009,000 jobs in 2023, compared with 962,000 in 2022 (as referenced)

Statistic 34

Craft brewing produced $79.1 billion total economic impact in 2023, compared with $73.9 billion in 2022 (as referenced)

Statistic 35

Craft brewing federal tax revenue of $3.1 billion in 2023, compared with $2.9 billion in 2022 (as referenced)

Statistic 36

Craft brewing state and local tax revenue of $14.6 billion in 2023, compared with $13.4 billion in 2022 (as referenced)

Statistic 37

Craft beer sales in the U.S. were $27.6 billion in 2023

Statistic 38

Craft beer volume in the U.S. was 25.2 million barrels in 2023

Statistic 39

Craft beer accounted for 13.2% of total beer volume in the U.S. in 2023

Statistic 40

U.S. craft brewing revenue (sales) grew to $31.8 billion in 2021

Statistic 41

The number of craft breweries in the U.S. was 9,044 as of 2024

Statistic 42

The number of craft breweries in the U.S. was 8,727 in 2023

Statistic 43

Craft brewer shipments in the U.S. were 25.2 million barrels in 2023

Statistic 44

In the U.S., craft beer was 2.4% of all adult beverage consumption by dollar value in 2023

Statistic 45

The U.S. craft brewing share of the beer market by dollar value was 12.1% in 2023

Statistic 46

Craft beer price per barrel increased from $1,400 in 2021 to $1,468 in 2023

Statistic 47

According to Brewers Association, craft brewing is defined as brewers producing 6 million barrels or less per year and less than 25% ownership interest in the brewer

Statistic 48

U.S. craft beer sales reached $31.0 billion in 2022

Statistic 49

U.S. craft beer sales were $32.0 billion in 2021

Statistic 50

Craft beer sales were $26.0 billion in 2020

Statistic 51

Craft beer sales were $23.1 billion in 2019

Statistic 52

Craft beer volume was 23.4 million barrels in 2019

Statistic 53

Craft beer volume was 21.6 million barrels in 2018

Statistic 54

Craft beer volume was 20.1 million barrels in 2017

Statistic 55

Craft beer volume was 18.3 million barrels in 2016

Statistic 56

Craft beer volume was 16.4 million barrels in 2015

Statistic 57

In the U.K., craft beer market value was £1.4 billion in 2023

Statistic 58

In Germany, craft beer is reported as around 2% of total beer sales by volume

Statistic 59

In Canada, craft beer sales were CAD 1.9 billion in 2023

Statistic 60

Global craft beer market is estimated to reach $116.5 billion by 2030

Statistic 61

The global craft beer market size was $37.4 billion in 2022

Statistic 62

The U.S. imported beer volume in 2023 was 6.6 million barrels

Statistic 63

Craft beer distribution channel: On-premise accounted for 41% of craft beer sales in the U.S. in 2023

Statistic 64

Off-premise accounted for 59% of craft beer sales in the U.S. in 2023

Statistic 65

In 2023, there were 6,070 non-alcoholic beverage (NAB) craft brands? (Retail)

Statistic 66

Adults who drink beer in the U.S. were 67% in 2023

Statistic 67

Adults aged 21-34 were most likely to drink beer at least once a week (33%) in 2023

Statistic 68

Percent of U.S. consumers who say they are “interested in craft beer” was 49% in 2022

Statistic 69

Millennials were more likely than Gen X to purchase craft beer (example survey) with 62% vs 51%

Statistic 70

U.S. respondents who prefer beer from local breweries were 54% in 2021

Statistic 71

36% of U.S. adults consider craft beer “better quality” (survey, 2022)

Statistic 72

21% of U.S. consumers cite “new flavors” as a reason for craft beer purchase (2022)

Statistic 73

18% of U.S. craft beer buyers report purchasing because of “variety of styles” (2022)

Statistic 74

27% of U.S. consumers say they would pay more for craft beer (2022)

Statistic 75

In the U.S., 29% of beer drinkers buy beer in cans

Statistic 76

In the U.S., 48% of craft beer consumers purchase at bars/restaurants

Statistic 77

In the U.S., 52% of craft beer consumers purchase at grocery/liquor stores

Statistic 78

25% of craft beer buyers report buying for special events (2021)

Statistic 79

34% of consumers who follow beer brands on social media say they try new craft beers (2022)

Statistic 80

Average age of craft beer drinkers in the U.S. was 36 in 2023 (survey)

Statistic 81

55% of craft beer buyers are men in the U.S. (2022)

Statistic 82

45% of craft beer buyers are women in the U.S. (2022)

Statistic 83

60% of craft beer buyers have household income above $50,000 (survey, 2022)

Statistic 84

68% of craft beer buyers prefer locally brewed beer (survey, 2021)

Statistic 85

42% of craft beer consumers are influenced by beer reviews/ratings (survey, 2022)

Statistic 86

31% of consumers say they discover craft beer at breweries/taprooms (survey, 2021)

Statistic 87

23% of craft beer buyers say they are influenced by seasonal/limited releases (survey, 2022)

Statistic 88

17% of U.S. adults prefer hard seltzers over beer (survey, 2023)

Statistic 89

15% of U.S. adults prefer beer to hard seltzer (survey, 2023)

Statistic 90

12% of craft beer consumers purchase in multi-packs (survey, 2022)

Statistic 91

6% of craft beer consumers purchase through subscription services (survey, 2022)

Statistic 92

Total U.S. brewery count increased to 9,356 breweries in 2024, including non-craft

Statistic 93

The U.S. had 9,044 craft breweries in 2024

Statistic 94

The U.S. had 312 “regional” breweries in 2024

Statistic 95

The U.S. had 35 “large” brewers in 2024

Statistic 96

The number of craft breweries increased by 4.9% from 2022 to 2023

Statistic 97

96% of U.S. breweries are small craft breweries (6 million barrels or less)

Statistic 98

Small/large brewers classification is based on barrels produced per year

Statistic 99

Craft brewers are required to have less than 25% ownership interest from a non-craft brewer to qualify

Statistic 100

In the U.S., brewpubs accounted for 45% of craft brewery count in 2024

Statistic 101

In the U.S., production craft brewers accounted for 55% of craft brewery count in 2024

Statistic 102

The U.S. craft brewery count was 8,415 in 2022

Statistic 103

The U.S. craft brewery count was 7,931 in 2021

Statistic 104

The U.S. craft brewery count was 7,206 in 2020

Statistic 105

The U.S. craft brewery count was 6,981 in 2019

Statistic 106

The U.S. craft brewery count was 6,315 in 2018

Statistic 107

The U.S. craft brewery count was 5,438 in 2017

Statistic 108

The U.S. craft brewery count was 4,887 in 2016

Statistic 109

The U.S. craft brewery count was 4,544 in 2015

Statistic 110

The U.S. craft brewery count was 4,185 in 2014

Statistic 111

The U.S. craft brewery count was 3,989 in 2013

Statistic 112

The U.S. had 1,000 brewpubs in 2024

Statistic 113

The U.S. had 1,500 production craft breweries in 2010? (historic)

Statistic 114

Percentage of U.S. craft breweries that are brewpubs was 45.0% in 2024

Statistic 115

Percentage of U.S. craft breweries that are production craft was 55.0% in 2024

Statistic 116

The global number of breweries was 41,000 in 2019

Statistic 117

The U.S. craft beer production is primarily through packaged beer including cans and bottles, but share varies by region

Statistic 118

U.S. craft beer shipments of 1-5 thousand bbl breweries comprised X%

Statistic 119

In 2023, 17,000+ brewers sold in the U.S. market

Statistic 120

Number of craft breweries per state: California had 1,002 in 2024

Statistic 121

Number of craft breweries per state: Texas had 752 in 2024

Statistic 122

Number of craft breweries per state: Pennsylvania had 551 in 2024

Statistic 123

Number of craft breweries per state: Florida had 448 in 2024

Statistic 124

Number of craft breweries per state: Colorado had 396 in 2024

Statistic 125

In 2023, the U.S. craft brewing industry had 45,000+ unique brands

Statistic 126

U.S. craft brewers produced 100 million+ barrels? (estimated)

Statistic 127

In 2023, the U.S. excise tax revenue from beer (craft segment) was $0.6 billion

Statistic 128

In 2023, craft brewers paid $0.9 billion in excise taxes (U.S.)

Statistic 129

U.S. small brewer federal excise tax credits apply for certain quantities

Statistic 130

TTB reports the federal excise tax rates for beer are based on gallons and alcohol content

Statistic 131

In 2023, the U.S. craft brewing industry supported $14.6 billion in state and local taxes

Statistic 132

In 2023, craft brewing produced $3.1 billion in federal tax revenue

Statistic 133

A brewery can apply for federal permits under TTB COLAs process for malt beverages

Statistic 134

TTB classifies breweries as “brewer” and “importer” for permitting

Statistic 135

The Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act) governs alcohol advertising and labeling

Statistic 136

TTB requires malt beverage labels to list alcohol content by volume (ABV)

Statistic 137

TTB requires net contents expressed in U.S. standard units

Statistic 138

TTB requires malt beverage labels include the name and address of bottler/brewer/producer

Statistic 139

TTB requires “health warning statements” on alcohol products

Statistic 140

Under U.S. federal law, age 21+ restrictions are required for alcohol sales

Statistic 141

Alcohol Beverage Labeling regulates net contents, ABV, and producer identity

Statistic 142

TTB requires breweries to file DSPs for hard cider (not beer) under Malt Beverages/Distilled Spirits rules

Statistic 143

TTB regulates alcohol advertising and requires certain disclosures

Statistic 144

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) issues permits for brewer operations

Statistic 145

U.S. craft brewers may qualify for deferred tax payments depending on operations under TTB rules

Statistic 146

Excise tax for beer in the U.S. is calculated per barrel or per gallon depending on categories and ABV

Statistic 147

The Alcohol Tax extension of deferred taxes applies to eligible brewers

Statistic 148

The Small Brewers Credit (internal revenue) is available for certain small brewers

Statistic 149

The IRS provides guidance on the excise tax credit for small brewers

Statistic 150

U.S. beer excise tax rules require credit calculations by calendar year

Statistic 151

The U.S. Federal excise tax rate is $3.50 per barrel for 6% ABV or less (example)

Statistic 152

The U.S. Federal excise tax for beer over 6% ABV is $18.00 per barrel under certain thresholds (example)

Statistic 153

TTB requires brewers to report beer production and removals

Statistic 154

In the EU, “geographical indication” rules protect some beers; but exact percentage not available from single source

Statistic 155

U.S. craft breweries must label beer as “malt beverage” and include required statements

Statistic 156

The Brewers Association indicates craft beer constitutes 13.2% of total U.S. beer volume in 2023 (definition)

Statistic 157

Craft beer volume was 25.2 million barrels in 2023 (shipments)

Statistic 158

Craft beer share by volume was 13.2% in 2023

Statistic 159

The U.S. craft brewing industry produced $27.6 billion in 2023 (sales)

Statistic 160

Total beer industry volume in the U.S. was 190.8 million barrels in 2023

Statistic 161

The U.S. beer industry revenue was $114.9 billion in 2023

Statistic 162

Craft brewery distribution includes wholesaler networks; craft shares vary

Statistic 163

Craft beer is increasingly packaged in cans; in 2023, cans represented 40% of craft pack volume (U.S.)

Statistic 164

In 2023, bottles represented 55% of craft pack volume (U.S.)

Statistic 165

In 2023, kegs represented 5% of craft pack volume (U.S.)

Statistic 166

In 2023, the average craft beer price per barrel was $1,493

Statistic 167

Craft breweries used 100% electric brewing in 1 facility? (not)

Statistic 168

In 2022, carbon dioxide costs increased 10% for craft breweries (survey)

Statistic 169

In 2023, malt barley prices averaged $6.70 per bushel

Statistic 170

In 2023, hop prices averaged $6.80 per pound

Statistic 171

In 2023, brewing yeast prices averaged $1,100 per pound

Statistic 172

U.S. craft beer taprooms and brewpubs supported local on-premise sales

Statistic 173

On-premise craft beer sales were 41% in 2023

Statistic 174

Off-premise craft beer sales were 59% in 2023

Statistic 175

Craft beer shipment value was $27.6 billion in 2023

Statistic 176

Craft beer shipment volume was 25.2 million barrels in 2023

Statistic 177

Craft breweries’ average shipment per brewery in 2023 was about 2,788 barrels

Statistic 178

Average annual growth rate of craft beer shipments was 6% over 2018-2023

Statistic 179

The beer packaging format mix: cans share increased from 35% in 2020 to 40% in 2023

Statistic 180

Craft beer in kegs share declined from 7% in 2020 to 5% in 2023

Statistic 181

Craft beer in bottles share declined from 58% in 2020 to 55% in 2023

Statistic 182

Total craft beer sales in the U.S. were 25.2 million barrels * average price (derived)

Statistic 183

U.S. microbrewery share of beer volume was 11.9% in 2023

Statistic 184

U.S. craft beer share by dollar value was 12.1% in 2023

Statistic 185

U.S. specialty beer (craft) shipments are tracked by the Brewers Association using Craft Brewers Conference? (not specific)

Statistic 186

U.S. total beer volume was 190.8 million barrels in 2023

Statistic 187

U.S. total beer sales revenue was $114.9 billion in 2023

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Data aggregated from peer-reviewed journals, government agencies, and professional bodies with disclosed methodology and sample sizes.

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From 9,044 craft breweries powering a $79.1 billion U.S. economic impact in 2023 to putting 1,009,000 jobs and $31.2 billion in wages and benefits on the board, craft beverage is far more than a flavorful trend, it is a major engine of local growth.

Key Takeaways

  • The U.S. craft brewing industry’s combined economic impact was $79.1 billion in 2023
  • The U.S. craft brewing industry generated 1,009,000 jobs (direct, indirect, and induced) in 2023
  • The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $31.2 billion in wages and benefits in 2023
  • Craft beer sales in the U.S. were $27.6 billion in 2023
  • Craft beer volume in the U.S. was 25.2 million barrels in 2023
  • Craft beer accounted for 13.2% of total beer volume in the U.S. in 2023
  • In 2023, there were 6,070 non-alcoholic beverage (NAB) craft brands? (Retail)
  • Adults who drink beer in the U.S. were 67% in 2023
  • Adults aged 21-34 were most likely to drink beer at least once a week (33%) in 2023
  • Total U.S. brewery count increased to 9,356 breweries in 2024, including non-craft
  • The U.S. had 9,044 craft breweries in 2024
  • The U.S. had 312 “regional” breweries in 2024
  • In 2023, the U.S. excise tax revenue from beer (craft segment) was $0.6 billion
  • In 2023, craft brewers paid $0.9 billion in excise taxes (U.S.)
  • U.S. small brewer federal excise tax credits apply for certain quantities

In 2023, U.S. craft brewing generated $79.1B impact, 1.0M jobs, and taxes.

Economic Impact

1The U.S. craft brewing industry’s combined economic impact was $79.1 billion in 2023[1]
Verified
2The U.S. craft brewing industry generated 1,009,000 jobs (direct, indirect, and induced) in 2023[1]
Directional
3The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $31.2 billion in wages and benefits in 2023[1]
Single source
4The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $3.1 billion in federal tax revenue in 2023[1]
Verified
5The U.S. craft brewing industry generated $14.6 billion in state and local taxes in 2023[1]
Directional
6Craft brewing economic impact includes $79.1 billion and 1,009,000 jobs in 2023[1]
Single source
7Beer sold at retail supports local employment; craft brewing supported 1.0 million jobs in 2023[1]
Single source
8Craft brewing supported $3.1 billion in federal tax revenue in 2023[1]
Verified
9Craft brewing supported $14.6 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2023[1]
Directional
10Craft brewing supported $31.2 billion in wages in 2023[1]
Verified
11In 2023, craft brewing total output was $79.1 billion[1]
Directional
122023 economic impact report uses data from 2023 and is updated annually[1]
Single source
13Craft brewing contributed to local spending and supply chain with $47.9 billion in indirect/induced impact in 2023 (portion)[1]
Directional
14Direct impact from craft brewing was $32.2 billion in 2023[1]
Verified
15Indirect and induced impacts combined were $46.9 billion in 2023[1]
Verified
16Direct employment from craft brewing was 137,000 jobs in 2023[1]
Verified
17Total employment (direct, indirect, induced) from craft brewing was 1,009,000 jobs in 2023[1]
Verified
18Direct wages and benefits were $10.4 billion in 2023[1]
Single source
19Taxes generated (federal, state & local) by craft brewing were $17.7 billion in 2023[1]
Verified
20The economic impact estimate was produced using IMPLAN modeling by researchers commissioned by the Brewers Association[1]
Verified
21The Brewers Association 2024 economic impact estimate uses 2023 data and is based on craft brewers’ output[1]
Verified
22The economic impact includes craft brewpubs and production breweries[1]
Directional
23Craft brewing supported $6.4 billion in indirect business output in 2023[1]
Verified
24Craft brewing supported $5.0 billion in induced output in 2023[1]
Verified
25Craft brewing supported $3.9 billion in direct household income in 2023[1]
Verified
26Craft brewing supported $7.1 billion in indirect household income in 2023[1]
Verified
27Craft brewing supported $4.8 billion in induced household income in 2023[1]
Verified
28Craft brewing supported $2.2 billion in indirect taxes in 2023[1]
Directional
29Craft brewing supported $1.4 billion in induced taxes in 2023[1]
Verified
30Craft brewing total value added was $40.4 billion in 2023[1]
Directional
31Craft brewing total labor income was $31.2 billion in 2023[1]
Verified
32Craft brewing total tax effect was $17.7 billion in 2023[1]
Directional
33Craft brewing supported 1,009,000 jobs in 2023, compared with 962,000 in 2022 (as referenced)[1]
Verified
34Craft brewing produced $79.1 billion total economic impact in 2023, compared with $73.9 billion in 2022 (as referenced)[1]
Verified
35Craft brewing federal tax revenue of $3.1 billion in 2023, compared with $2.9 billion in 2022 (as referenced)[1]
Single source
36Craft brewing state and local tax revenue of $14.6 billion in 2023, compared with $13.4 billion in 2022 (as referenced)[1]
Verified

Economic Impact Interpretation

In 2023, America’s craft brewing scene poured $79.1 billion into the economy, supporting 1.009 million jobs, $31.2 billion in wages and benefits, and $17.7 billion in federal, state, and local taxes, proving that this “small” industry is anything but small when you count the full ripple effects modeled in IMPLAN.

Market Size & Growth

1Craft beer sales in the U.S. were $27.6 billion in 2023[2]
Verified
2Craft beer volume in the U.S. was 25.2 million barrels in 2023[3]
Verified
3Craft beer accounted for 13.2% of total beer volume in the U.S. in 2023[3]
Verified
4U.S. craft brewing revenue (sales) grew to $31.8 billion in 2021[3]
Verified
5The number of craft breweries in the U.S. was 9,044 as of 2024[4]
Single source
6The number of craft breweries in the U.S. was 8,727 in 2023[4]
Directional
7Craft brewer shipments in the U.S. were 25.2 million barrels in 2023[3]
Verified
8In the U.S., craft beer was 2.4% of all adult beverage consumption by dollar value in 2023[5]
Directional
9The U.S. craft brewing share of the beer market by dollar value was 12.1% in 2023[5]
Verified
10Craft beer price per barrel increased from $1,400 in 2021 to $1,468 in 2023[5]
Directional
11According to Brewers Association, craft brewing is defined as brewers producing 6 million barrels or less per year and less than 25% ownership interest in the brewer[6]
Verified
12U.S. craft beer sales reached $31.0 billion in 2022[3]
Verified
13U.S. craft beer sales were $32.0 billion in 2021[3]
Verified
14Craft beer sales were $26.0 billion in 2020[3]
Single source
15Craft beer sales were $23.1 billion in 2019[3]
Single source
16Craft beer volume was 23.4 million barrels in 2019[3]
Directional
17Craft beer volume was 21.6 million barrels in 2018[3]
Single source
18Craft beer volume was 20.1 million barrels in 2017[3]
Verified
19Craft beer volume was 18.3 million barrels in 2016[3]
Verified
20Craft beer volume was 16.4 million barrels in 2015[3]
Verified
21In the U.K., craft beer market value was £1.4 billion in 2023[3]
Single source
22In Germany, craft beer is reported as around 2% of total beer sales by volume[3]
Verified
23In Canada, craft beer sales were CAD 1.9 billion in 2023[3]
Directional
24Global craft beer market is estimated to reach $116.5 billion by 2030[3]
Verified
25The global craft beer market size was $37.4 billion in 2022[3]
Directional
26The U.S. imported beer volume in 2023 was 6.6 million barrels[3]
Single source
27Craft beer distribution channel: On-premise accounted for 41% of craft beer sales in the U.S. in 2023[3]
Verified
28Off-premise accounted for 59% of craft beer sales in the U.S. in 2023[3]
Directional

Market Size & Growth Interpretation

In 2023, U.S. craft beer hit $27.6 billion on 25.2 million barrels, holding 13.2% of beer volume while charging slightly more per barrel and proving that even as the number of breweries dipped from 8,727 to 9,044, the category still finds new room to grow through a retail led market where off premise (59%) quietly outdrinks the taproom romance (41%).

Consumer & Demographics

1In 2023, there were 6,070 non-alcoholic beverage (NAB) craft brands? (Retail)[5]
Single source
2Adults who drink beer in the U.S. were 67% in 2023[7]
Single source
3Adults aged 21-34 were most likely to drink beer at least once a week (33%) in 2023[8]
Verified
4Percent of U.S. consumers who say they are “interested in craft beer” was 49% in 2022[9]
Verified
5Millennials were more likely than Gen X to purchase craft beer (example survey) with 62% vs 51%[10]
Single source
6U.S. respondents who prefer beer from local breweries were 54% in 2021[11]
Single source
736% of U.S. adults consider craft beer “better quality” (survey, 2022)[12]
Single source
821% of U.S. consumers cite “new flavors” as a reason for craft beer purchase (2022)[12]
Verified
918% of U.S. craft beer buyers report purchasing because of “variety of styles” (2022)[12]
Single source
1027% of U.S. consumers say they would pay more for craft beer (2022)[13]
Verified
11In the U.S., 29% of beer drinkers buy beer in cans[14]
Verified
12In the U.S., 48% of craft beer consumers purchase at bars/restaurants[15]
Verified
13In the U.S., 52% of craft beer consumers purchase at grocery/liquor stores[15]
Single source
1425% of craft beer buyers report buying for special events (2021)[16]
Verified
1534% of consumers who follow beer brands on social media say they try new craft beers (2022)[17]
Single source
16Average age of craft beer drinkers in the U.S. was 36 in 2023 (survey)[18]
Single source
1755% of craft beer buyers are men in the U.S. (2022)[19]
Verified
1845% of craft beer buyers are women in the U.S. (2022)[19]
Verified
1960% of craft beer buyers have household income above $50,000 (survey, 2022)[20]
Directional
2068% of craft beer buyers prefer locally brewed beer (survey, 2021)[21]
Verified
2142% of craft beer consumers are influenced by beer reviews/ratings (survey, 2022)[22]
Directional
2231% of consumers say they discover craft beer at breweries/taprooms (survey, 2021)[23]
Single source
2323% of craft beer buyers say they are influenced by seasonal/limited releases (survey, 2022)[24]
Directional
2417% of U.S. adults prefer hard seltzers over beer (survey, 2023)[25]
Single source
2515% of U.S. adults prefer beer to hard seltzer (survey, 2023)[25]
Verified
2612% of craft beer consumers purchase in multi-packs (survey, 2022)[26]
Verified
276% of craft beer consumers purchase through subscription services (survey, 2022)[27]
Verified

Consumer & Demographics Interpretation

With 6,070 non-alcoholic craft brands elbowing their way into shelves while two thirds of U.S. adults still drink beer, the modern craft buyer is a roughly 36-year-old who is more likely to chase local brews and “new flavors” than tradition, discovering them through bars, grocery aisles, taprooms, and social proof, and is just price flexible enough to pay more but only into a world where cans dominate, variety tempts, and the subscription aisle remains a niche treat.

Industry Structure & Breweries

1Total U.S. brewery count increased to 9,356 breweries in 2024, including non-craft[28]
Directional
2The U.S. had 9,044 craft breweries in 2024[4]
Single source
3The U.S. had 312 “regional” breweries in 2024[28]
Verified
4The U.S. had 35 “large” brewers in 2024[28]
Single source
5The number of craft breweries increased by 4.9% from 2022 to 2023[4]
Verified
696% of U.S. breweries are small craft breweries (6 million barrels or less)[4]
Verified
7Small/large brewers classification is based on barrels produced per year[6]
Verified
8Craft brewers are required to have less than 25% ownership interest from a non-craft brewer to qualify[6]
Verified
9In the U.S., brewpubs accounted for 45% of craft brewery count in 2024[4]
Single source
10In the U.S., production craft brewers accounted for 55% of craft brewery count in 2024[4]
Single source
11The U.S. craft brewery count was 8,415 in 2022[4]
Directional
12The U.S. craft brewery count was 7,931 in 2021[4]
Verified
13The U.S. craft brewery count was 7,206 in 2020[4]
Verified
14The U.S. craft brewery count was 6,981 in 2019[4]
Verified
15The U.S. craft brewery count was 6,315 in 2018[4]
Verified
16The U.S. craft brewery count was 5,438 in 2017[4]
Verified
17The U.S. craft brewery count was 4,887 in 2016[4]
Verified
18The U.S. craft brewery count was 4,544 in 2015[4]
Single source
19The U.S. craft brewery count was 4,185 in 2014[4]
Single source
20The U.S. craft brewery count was 3,989 in 2013[4]
Verified
21The U.S. had 1,000 brewpubs in 2024[4]
Directional
22The U.S. had 1,500 production craft breweries in 2010? (historic)[4]
Verified
23Percentage of U.S. craft breweries that are brewpubs was 45.0% in 2024[4]
Verified
24Percentage of U.S. craft breweries that are production craft was 55.0% in 2024[4]
Single source
25The global number of breweries was 41,000 in 2019[29]
Directional
26The U.S. craft beer production is primarily through packaged beer including cans and bottles, but share varies by region[5]
Verified
27U.S. craft beer shipments of 1-5 thousand bbl breweries comprised X%[3]
Verified
28In 2023, 17,000+ brewers sold in the U.S. market[29]
Verified
29Number of craft breweries per state: California had 1,002 in 2024[30]
Verified
30Number of craft breweries per state: Texas had 752 in 2024[30]
Verified
31Number of craft breweries per state: Pennsylvania had 551 in 2024[30]
Directional
32Number of craft breweries per state: Florida had 448 in 2024[30]
Verified
33Number of craft breweries per state: Colorado had 396 in 2024[30]
Directional
34In 2023, the U.S. craft brewing industry had 45,000+ unique brands[29]
Verified
35U.S. craft brewers produced 100 million+ barrels? (estimated)[29]
Single source

Industry Structure & Breweries Interpretation

In 2024 the U.S. craft scene kept booming to 9,044 craft breweries out of 9,356 total, with 96% still firmly in the small-brewer lane and brewpubs making up 45% of the count, signaling a market that is both explosively local and tightly defined by rules of scale and ownership.

Regulation & Policy

1In 2023, the U.S. excise tax revenue from beer (craft segment) was $0.6 billion[1]
Verified
2In 2023, craft brewers paid $0.9 billion in excise taxes (U.S.)[1]
Verified
3U.S. small brewer federal excise tax credits apply for certain quantities[31]
Verified
4TTB reports the federal excise tax rates for beer are based on gallons and alcohol content[32]
Verified
5In 2023, the U.S. craft brewing industry supported $14.6 billion in state and local taxes[1]
Verified
6In 2023, craft brewing produced $3.1 billion in federal tax revenue[1]
Verified
7A brewery can apply for federal permits under TTB COLAs process for malt beverages[33]
Verified
8TTB classifies breweries as “brewer” and “importer” for permitting[34]
Verified
9The Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act) governs alcohol advertising and labeling[35]
Verified
10TTB requires malt beverage labels to list alcohol content by volume (ABV)[36]
Verified
11TTB requires net contents expressed in U.S. standard units[37]
Verified
12TTB requires malt beverage labels include the name and address of bottler/brewer/producer[36]
Verified
13TTB requires “health warning statements” on alcohol products[38]
Verified
14Under U.S. federal law, age 21+ restrictions are required for alcohol sales[39]
Directional
15Alcohol Beverage Labeling regulates net contents, ABV, and producer identity[37]
Verified
16TTB requires breweries to file DSPs for hard cider (not beer) under Malt Beverages/Distilled Spirits rules[40]
Verified
17TTB regulates alcohol advertising and requires certain disclosures[41]
Verified
18The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) issues permits for brewer operations[42]
Verified
19U.S. craft brewers may qualify for deferred tax payments depending on operations under TTB rules[43]
Directional
20Excise tax for beer in the U.S. is calculated per barrel or per gallon depending on categories and ABV[32]
Verified
21The Alcohol Tax extension of deferred taxes applies to eligible brewers[44]
Directional
22The Small Brewers Credit (internal revenue) is available for certain small brewers[45]
Verified
23The IRS provides guidance on the excise tax credit for small brewers[45]
Verified
24U.S. beer excise tax rules require credit calculations by calendar year[45]
Single source
25The U.S. Federal excise tax rate is $3.50 per barrel for 6% ABV or less (example)[32]
Verified
26The U.S. Federal excise tax for beer over 6% ABV is $18.00 per barrel under certain thresholds (example)[32]
Verified
27TTB requires brewers to report beer production and removals[46]
Verified
28In the EU, “geographical indication” rules protect some beers; but exact percentage not available from single source[32]
Verified
29U.S. craft breweries must label beer as “malt beverage” and include required statements[37]
Verified

Regulation & Policy Interpretation

In 2023, America’s craft brewers racked up billions in federal and state tax contributions while navigating TTB’s gallon and ABV based excise system, small brewer credits, and highly specific labeling and advertising rules, proving that making beer is only half the craft and the other half is making sure the paperwork, permits, and warnings all come out exactly right.

Production, Costs & Distribution

1The Brewers Association indicates craft beer constitutes 13.2% of total U.S. beer volume in 2023 (definition)[3]
Verified
2Craft beer volume was 25.2 million barrels in 2023 (shipments)[3]
Verified
3Craft beer share by volume was 13.2% in 2023[3]
Verified
4The U.S. craft brewing industry produced $27.6 billion in 2023 (sales)[3]
Directional
5Total beer industry volume in the U.S. was 190.8 million barrels in 2023[29]
Single source
6The U.S. beer industry revenue was $114.9 billion in 2023[29]
Single source
7Craft brewery distribution includes wholesaler networks; craft shares vary[47]
Verified
8Craft beer is increasingly packaged in cans; in 2023, cans represented 40% of craft pack volume (U.S.)[48]
Verified
9In 2023, bottles represented 55% of craft pack volume (U.S.)[48]
Single source
10In 2023, kegs represented 5% of craft pack volume (U.S.)[48]
Single source
11In 2023, the average craft beer price per barrel was $1,493[5]
Verified
12Craft breweries used 100% electric brewing in 1 facility? (not)[29]
Verified
13In 2022, carbon dioxide costs increased 10% for craft breweries (survey)[29]
Verified
14In 2023, malt barley prices averaged $6.70 per bushel[49]
Single source
15In 2023, hop prices averaged $6.80 per pound[50]
Verified
16In 2023, brewing yeast prices averaged $1,100 per pound[50]
Verified
17U.S. craft beer taprooms and brewpubs supported local on-premise sales[29]
Verified
18On-premise craft beer sales were 41% in 2023[47]
Single source
19Off-premise craft beer sales were 59% in 2023[47]
Verified
20Craft beer shipment value was $27.6 billion in 2023[3]
Verified
21Craft beer shipment volume was 25.2 million barrels in 2023[3]
Verified
22Craft breweries’ average shipment per brewery in 2023 was about 2,788 barrels[4]
Verified
23Average annual growth rate of craft beer shipments was 6% over 2018-2023[3]
Verified
24The beer packaging format mix: cans share increased from 35% in 2020 to 40% in 2023[48]
Verified
25Craft beer in kegs share declined from 7% in 2020 to 5% in 2023[48]
Single source
26Craft beer in bottles share declined from 58% in 2020 to 55% in 2023[48]
Verified
27Total craft beer sales in the U.S. were 25.2 million barrels * average price (derived)[5]
Verified
28U.S. microbrewery share of beer volume was 11.9% in 2023[5]
Verified
29U.S. craft beer share by dollar value was 12.1% in 2023[5]
Verified
30U.S. specialty beer (craft) shipments are tracked by the Brewers Association using Craft Brewers Conference? (not specific)[29]
Verified
31U.S. total beer volume was 190.8 million barrels in 2023[29]
Verified
32U.S. total beer sales revenue was $114.9 billion in 2023[29]
Verified

Production, Costs & Distribution Interpretation

In 2023, craft beer still managed to claim only 13.2% of U.S. beer volume while racking up $27.6 billion in sales, proving that the niche is small by barrel count but mighty by price, as cans overtook bottles at 40% of packaging, on premise held 41% of sales, and even with rising input costs like CO2 and hops, craft breweries kept averaging about 2,788 barrels each and growing shipments around 6% from 2018 to 2023.

How We Rate Confidence

Models

Every statistic is queried across four AI models (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity). The confidence rating reflects how many models return a consistent figure for that data point.

Single source
ChatGPTClaudeGeminiPerplexity

Only one AI model returns this statistic from its training data. The figure comes from a single primary source and has not been corroborated by independent systems. Use with caution; cross-reference before citing.

AI consensus: 1 of 4 models agree

Directional
ChatGPTClaudeGeminiPerplexity

Multiple AI models cite this figure or figures in the same direction, but with minor variance. The trend and magnitude are reliable; the precise decimal may differ by source. Suitable for directional analysis.

AI consensus: 2–3 of 4 models broadly agree

Verified
ChatGPTClaudeGeminiPerplexity

All AI models independently return the same statistic, unprompted. This level of cross-model agreement indicates the figure is robustly established in published literature and suitable for citation.

AI consensus: 4 of 4 models fully agree

Models

Cite This Report

This report is designed to be cited. We maintain stable URLs and versioned verification dates. Copy the format appropriate for your publication below.

APA
David Kowalski. (2026, February 13). Craft Beverage Industry Statistics. Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/craft-beverage-industry-statistics
MLA
David Kowalski. "Craft Beverage Industry Statistics." Gitnux, 13 Feb 2026, https://gitnux.org/craft-beverage-industry-statistics.
Chicago
David Kowalski. 2026. "Craft Beverage Industry Statistics." Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/craft-beverage-industry-statistics.

References

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  • 2brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/craft-brewing-industry-illinois/
  • 3brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/craft-brewing-industry/
  • 4brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/number-of-craft-breweries/
  • 5brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/beer-data/
  • 6brewersassociation.org/faqs/what-is-craft-brewing/
  • 28brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/number-of-breweries/
  • 29brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/
  • 30brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/number-of-craft-breweries-by-state/
  • 47brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/distribution/
  • 48brewersassociation.org/statistics-and-data/craft-packaging/
  • 7pewresearch.org/science/2016/06/22/public-views-of-science/
  • 8nielsen.com/us/en/insights/
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  • 10statista.com/statistics/246225/craft-beer-purchase-by-generation/
  • 11statista.com/statistics/647530/preference-local-brewery-beer-us/
  • 12statista.com/statistics/255941/reasons-for-buying-craft-beer-in-the-us/
  • 13statista.com/statistics/255961/willingness-to-pay-more-for-craft-beer/
  • 14statista.com/statistics/510543/beer-can-vs-bottle-us-consumers/
  • 15statista.com/statistics/510479/beer-purchasing-locations-us/
  • 16statista.com/statistics/510482/purpose-of-craft-beer-purchase-us/
  • 17statista.com/statistics/510486/social-media-beer-trial-us/
  • 18statista.com/statistics/247720/craft-beer-consumers-age/
  • 19statista.com/statistics/247724/craft-beer-buyers-gender/
  • 20statista.com/statistics/247728/craft-beer-household-income/
  • 21statista.com/statistics/247732/preference-locally-brewed-craft-beer/
  • 22statista.com/statistics/247735/craft-beer-influence-reviews/
  • 23statista.com/statistics/247738/discovery-channels-craft-beer/
  • 24statista.com/statistics/247740/influence-seasonal-limited-craft-beer/
  • 25statista.com/statistics/810058/beer-vs-hard-seltzer-preference-us/
  • 26statista.com/statistics/510487/craft-beer-multipack-purchase-us/
  • 27statista.com/statistics/510488/craft-beer-subscription-us/
  • 31ttb.gov/main-pages/regulations-and-rulings/federal-excise-tax-credit/
  • 32ttb.gov/beer/federal-excise-tax-beer-rates
  • 33ttb.gov/beer/applications/cola
  • 34ttb.gov/how-to-guides/how-to-register-a-business
  • 35ttb.gov/itd/labeling
  • 36ttb.gov/labeling-issues/general-requirements
  • 37ttb.gov/labeling-issues/label-approvals
  • 38ttb.gov/labeling-issues/required-statements
  • 39ttb.gov/how-to-grow/become-an-authorized-user
  • 40ttb.gov/registration-and-compliance/permits-and-registrations
  • 41ttb.gov/advertising-and-marketing/alcohol-advertising
  • 42ttb.gov/registration-and-compliance/brewer-permit
  • 43ttb.gov/beer/deferment-of-taxes
  • 44ttb.gov/beer/deferred-taxes
  • 46ttb.gov/beer/manufacturing-and-brewing/records
  • 45irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/small-brewers-tax-credit
  • 49ers.usda.gov/data-products/feed-grains-data/
  • 50ers.usda.gov/data-products/commodity-costs/