Here's Where You'll Find The Cheapest Beer In The World

Many cities worldwide sell pints for under $1

Identifying a single city as the most affordable for beer is challenging, as many urban areas fall within a similar price range, and costs can fluctuate annually. Freetown, Sierra Leone, was highlighted as the top contender in a 2022 Time Out article and ranked second in a 2023 Mirror piece on the same subject. However, a 2024 study by Finder reveals that the West African capital has been surpassed by several other African cities. The updated rankings now place Maseru, Lesotho as the city with the cheapest beer, averaging just 81 cents per pint. Most of the cities on the list are located in sub-Saharan Africa, although Vientiane, Laos has also experienced a consistent decline in beer prices, with pints now costing 86 cents.

Southeast Asia is another region known for its budget-friendly beer options, with Vietnamese cities ranking among the most economical destinations. A 2022 Statista report identified Hanoi, Vietnam as one of the cheapest beer cities globally, with an average price of 77 cents for half a liter. Additionally, the Finder study mentions Ho Chi Minh City as another excellent choice for affordable beer. Travelers, especially in the northern part of the country, will enjoy trying Bia Hoi, freshly brewed street beers that can be found for as little as 20 cents.

Lastly, Central Asia is worth noting, as beer consumption has become increasingly popular, influenced by neighboring countries like China and Russia. Tashkent, Uzbekistan was recognized in the aforementioned Mirror article as the cheapest beer city in 2023, while Almaty, Kazakhstan also appears on several lists.

Most of the world's beer comes from large companies

While the allure of exploring the globe and tasting new beers is undeniable, the reality is that many options can be surprisingly similar. According to Statista, around 88% of global beer production is dominated by just 40 brewing companies. Major players like Anheuser Busch InBev and Heineken account for more than a third of the world's beer production, meaning their products are often what you'll find on tap. So, there's no need to worry about distinguishing a Kölsch from a pilsner when ordering abroad—the majority are produced in the macro lager style.

However, this doesn't apply to every city, bar, or beer; after all, we're looking at the entire globe. For instance, beer lovers should pay special attention to Prague. While it may not be the cheapest destination worldwide, it ranks among the top ten most affordable beer cities in Europe, with an average price just over $2 per pint. Not only does the Czech Republic have the highest beer consumption per capita, but its offerings are particularly delightful. The pilsner style originated here, and you can easily find fresh Pilsner Urquell throughout the city. In places like this, and in other cities with rich brewing traditions, you can comfortably visit a local bar, enjoy a quality brew, and savor several rounds without a care in the world.