Planning a party, a tailgate, or just stocking up for a long weekend? If you’re looking to serve beer, cider, or even soda to a crowd, buying a keg can be a cost-effective and convenient option. But before you commit, you’re probably wondering, “How Much Are Kegs going to set me back?”. This guide breaks down the typical costs associated with full-size kegs, what factors influence pricing, and what you can expect to pay for some popular brands.
Understanding Keg Sizes
Before diving into prices, it’s essential to know what we mean by a “full-size” keg. Generally, a full-size keg, also known as a half-barrel, holds either 15.5 gallons or roughly 13.2 gallons of liquid.
- 15.5 Gallon Keg: This is the standard full-size keg. It holds approximately 124 pints (16 oz) or 165 twelve-ounce servings.
- 13.2 Gallon Keg: Some breweries offer kegs in this slightly smaller size. It contains about 105 pints (16 oz).
The number of pours you get from a keg makes it ideal for large gatherings.
What Factors Influence Keg Prices?
Several factors can affect the final price you pay for a keg.
- Brand: Premium and craft beers typically command higher prices than domestic lagers. Imported beers may also be more expensive due to shipping costs and import taxes.
- Type of Beverage: Specialty beverages like ciders, stouts, or IPAs often have higher prices than lighter beers.
- Location: Prices can vary significantly depending on your location due to differences in taxes, distribution costs, and local market demand.
- Supplier: Different retailers may have varying markups.
- Seasonality: Some seasonal beers or ciders may be priced higher due to limited availability.
- Market Conditions: Current supplier pricing will have impact on the final price.
Full-Size Keg Price Examples
To give you a general idea of what to expect, here’s a list of approximate prices for various full-size kegs. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on the factors mentioned above.
| Beer/Cider | Size | Approximate Price |
|---|---|---|
| ACE CALIF PERRY CIDER | 15.5 Gallon | $240.00 |
| ACE CALIF PINEAPPLE CIDER | 15.5 Gallon | $240.00 |
| AK Amber | 15.5 Gallon | $128.00 |
| AK Freeride APA | 15.5 Gallon | $118.00 |
| Alibi Pale Ale | 15.5 Gallon | $225.00 |
| Alibi Porter | 15.5 Gallon | $195.00 |
| Alibi Saison | 15.5 Gallon | $195.00 |
| All Day IPA Founders | 15.5 Gallon | $192.00 |
| Alpine Captain Stout | 15.5 Gallon | $211.00 |
| Alpine Duet IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $226.00 |
| Alpine Hoppy Birthday | 15.5 Gallon | $230.00 |
| Alpine Nelson IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $245.00 |
| Alpine Pure Hoppiness | 15.5 Gallon | $256.00 |
| Ballast Point Big Eye IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $191.00 |
| Ballast Point Black Marlin Porter | 15.5 Gallon | $173.00 |
| Ballast Point Calico Amber Ale | 15.5 Gallon | $180.00 |
| Ballast Point Dorado Double IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $265.00 |
| Bud Light | 15.5 Gallon | $165.00 |
| Budweiser | 15.5 Gallon | $140.00 |
| Blue Moon Belgium White | 15.5 Gallon | $195.00 |
| Blue Moon Mango White | 15.5 Gallon | $195.00 |
| Blanche de Bruxelles | 13.2 Gallon | $205.00 |
| Brooklyn B Chocolate Stout | 15.5 Gallon | $250.00 |
| Brooklyn Brmst Rsv Red Sumac | 15.5 Gallon | $190.00 |
| Brooklyn Brown Ale | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn Defender IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $190.00 |
| Brooklyn Dry Irish Stout | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn East India Pale | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn Greenmarket Wheat | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn Insulated Lager | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn Lager | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn Oktoberfest | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Brooklyn Pilsner | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Corona Light | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Coors Light | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Coors BNQ Reg | 15.5 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Deschutes Fresh Squeezed IPA | 13.2 Gallon | $200.00 |
| Deschutes Mirror Pond Pale Ale | 13.2 Gallon | $185.00 |
| Deschutes Black Butte Porter | 13.2 Gallon | $170.00 |
| Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $205.00 |
| Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $255.00 |
| Dogfish Head Indian Brown | 15.5 Gallon | $205.00 |
| Drakes Dinoggonizir Ipa | 15.5 Gallon | $260.00 |
| Dos Equis Amber | 20 Liter | $140.00 |
| Dos Equis Lager | 15.5 Gallon | $175.00 |
| Depot Beer The Ranch Hand | 15.5 Gallon | $175.00 |
| Depot Beer The Voyager IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $221.00 |
| Firestone 805 Ale | 13.2 Gallon | $175.00 |
| Firestone Union Jack IPA | 13.2 Gallon | $195.00 |
| Firestone Velvet Merlin | 13.2 Gallon | $175.00 |
| Firestone Wookey Jack IPA | 13.2 Gallon | $192.00 |
| Full Sail Amber Ale | 15.5 Gallon | $150.00 |
| Full Sail IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $150.00 |
| Genesee Beer | 15.5 Gallon | $102.00 |
| Genesee Cream Ale | 15.5 Gallon | $102.00 |
| Green Flash West Coast IPA | 15.5 Gallon | $226.00 |
| Hamms | 15.5 Gallon | $100.00 |
| High Life | 15.5 Gallon | $105.00 |
This is just a small sample, and prices fluctuate. The best way to find out the exact cost is to contact your local beer distributor or liquor store.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the price of the keg itself, there are a few other expenses to factor in:
- Keg Deposit: Most retailers require a deposit, typically around $50, which is refunded when you return the empty keg.
- Tap Rental: If you don’t own a kegerator or tap system, you’ll need to rent a tap. Rental fees vary but usually range from $10 to $20.
- CO2 Tank (if needed): Some tap systems require a CO2 tank to dispense the beer.
- Ice: You’ll need plenty of ice to keep the keg cold, especially if you’re serving outdoors.
- Cups: Don’t forget the cups!
Tips for Finding the Best Keg Prices
- Shop Around: Call multiple distributors to compare prices.
- Consider Domestic Brands: Domestic beers are generally more affordable.
- Ask About Discounts: Some retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases or special events.
- Plan Ahead: Ordering in advance can sometimes secure better pricing.
Is a Keg Right for You?
Buying a keg is a great option if you’re hosting a large gathering and want to save money compared to buying individual bottles or cans. However, it’s essential to consider whether you can consume the beer before it goes flat (typically within 24-72 hours of tapping). Otherwise, you might end up with a lot of wasted beer. It is also important to consider where the keg will be stored to keep the beer cold and fresh.
Alternative text: A group of friends cheers with beers drawn from a keg at an outdoor party, exemplifying the communal enjoyment of keg beer.
Conclusion
“How much are kegs?” The answer depends on several variables, including the brand, type of beverage, location, and supplier. By doing your research and considering all the associated costs, you can make an informed decision and enjoy fresh, affordable beer at your next event. Remember to factor in the keg deposit, tap rental, and other expenses to get an accurate estimate of the total cost. Cheers to a successful and budget-friendly gathering!
