Seattle Residents Outraged as Coffee Prices SkyrocketSeattle Residents Outraged as Coffee Prices Skyrocket The once-affordable cup of coffee has become a luxury in Seattle, as residents grapple with soaring prices that have left them fuming. Over the past few months, the cost of a regular cup of coffee at popular coffee shops has soared by as much as 20%, while specialty drinks have experienced even steeper increases. “It’s outrageous,” lamented Sarah, a daily coffee drinker who frequents local cafes. “I used to get my morning latte for $5, but now it’s gone up to $6. That’s a 20% price hike overnight.” Several factors have contributed to the surge in coffee prices, including supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic, rising labor costs, and the impact of climate change on coffee-growing regions. Seattle’s love affair with coffee runs deep, and the price increase has cast a shadow over the city’s daily routine. Long lines have become commonplace at coffee shops as residents struggle to find affordable options. Some are resorting to brewing coffee at home to save money, while others are cutting back on their daily caffeine fix. “I’m a faithful Starbucks customer, but I’m considering switching to cheaper alternatives,” said Mark, a tech worker in the city. “I used to spend $50 a week on coffee, but now it’s become a $60 expense.” Local coffee businesses have also felt the pinch of rising prices. Many have been forced to increase their prices to cover costs, leading to a backlash from customers. “We’ve tried everything to keep our prices down, but we’ve reached a point where we have no choice but to pass on the increases to our customers,” said Matt, the owner of a small, independent coffee shop. “We’re losing business because people are looking for cheaper options.” The situation has sparked outrage among Seattle residents, who are demanding action from local and state governments. Petitions have been launched, and protests have been held in front of popular coffee shops. City Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda has introduced legislation that would temporarily cap coffee prices in Seattle. However, the proposal faces an uphill battle in the state legislature. As the debate continues, Seattle residents are left with the bitter reality of paying exorbitant prices for their beloved coffee. The once-affordable cup has become a symbol of a changing city, where the cost of living continues to rise, leaving many feeling squeezed and powerless.