Pumpkin spice lattes are back: How to treat yourself without thinking price

You don’t have to let the rising cost of coffee take away the simple joy of treating yourself to a Pumpkin Spice Latte this fall.

It’s that time of year again. For many, it’s not the crisp air or falling leaves that mark the start of autumn — it’s the warm, spiced comfort of a Pumpkin Spice Latte. One sip of that pumpkin-cinnamon blend, and fall officially begins.

Since Starbucks first introduced the PSL in 2003, it has become a global phenomenon, inspiring rival chains, grocery store products, and even scented candles. And now, as coffee shops roll out their fall menus, the Pumpkin Spice Latte once again takes center stage.

This year, though, the conversation is about more than just pumpkin and spice. With inflation, rising coffee prices, and President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs expected to take a real toll. The pressure of everyday expenses, many fans are asking: Is it still worth it? The short answer: absolutely — if you know how to treat yourself wisely.

PSL 2025: What’s Brewing This Season

Starbucks’ fall lineup returns on August 26th, featuring new additions as well as plenty of seasonal favorites:

• Pumpkin Spice Latte (classic hot, iced, or blended)
• Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew

• Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte

• Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte

• New Pecan Oatmilk Cortado (2025 debut)
• Italian Sausage Egg Bites for savory mornings

The good news? Prices for Starbucks fall drinks have not increased since last year, with a grande PSL costing between $5.75 and $7.25, depending on location. This stability is welcome news as global coffee bean prices rise. 

Other chains are getting in on the action, too:

• Dunkin’ is offering its Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte alongside new menu items, tapping into nostalgia.
• Peet’s Coffee rolled out a wide fall lineup, including a Pumpkin Chai Latte and even creative spins like an Iced Vanilla Latte with Popping Pearls.

Pumpkin spice latte has officially moved beyond Starbucks — but the latte remains its star.

Why We Still Splurge — The Psychology of “Little Treats”

Despite the rising costs, PSL is increasingly thriving, fueled by what some call “tretonomics,” or little treat culture. Instead of splurging on expensive luxuries, people are choosing affordable pick-me-ups like lattes, pastries, or small indulgences that brighten their day. 

Studies show these little purchases actually boost our mood by triggering “happy hormones” such as dopamine and serotonin. In other words: that $6 latte may feel like money well spent if it brings genuine joy.

But here’s the catch — small indulgences can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Surveys show that more than half of millennials and Gen Z admit to overspending on treats at least some of the time.

So how can you savor the PSL season without watching your budget disappear?

How to Treat Yourself Without Thinking Price

Here are some practical strategies for enjoying pumpkin spice season without guilt:

1. Set a Budget

Decide upfront how much you’re willing to spend on seasonal drinks. Maybe that’s two PSLs per month, or one per week — whatever feels realistic for you.

2. Go Premade

Grocery stores now stock a wide range of pumpkin spice products at a fraction of the cost of coffee shops:

• Starbucks Iced Espresso Pumpkin Spice Latte (40 oz): $6.99 (~3 grande lattes).
• Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate (32 oz): $11.99–13.99.
• Bottled Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino (13.7 oz): $4.19.
• Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Ground Coffee (11 oz): $7.90.

These let you enjoy the flavor at home for much less per serving.

3. DIY at Home

If you’re feeling creative, making your own latte is the best way to save. All you need is espresso (or strong coffee), milk, pumpkin puree, a touch of vanilla, sweetener, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Top it with whipped cream for that coffeehouse feel.

We put together a full guide with recipes and secret ingredient tips here: Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte 2025 DIY Recipes

4. Use Rewards Programs

Starbucks Rewards members can rack up points (Stars) toward free drinks. Look out for Double Star Days, happy hour BOGOs, and birthday freebies to stretch your PSL budget.

5. Gift Cards & Discounts

Websites like Gift Card Granny, Raise, and CardCash often sell Starbucks or Dunkin’ cards at a discount. Using one means your latte indulgence costs less without sacrificing flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Without Starbucks

Of course, the PSL season isn’t limited to one chain. Other Starbucks offerings this season include the pumpkin cream cold brew, iced pumpkin cream chai, pecan crunch oatmilk latte, the new pecan oatmilk cortado and pecan cold foam. Cold foam has become one of the coffee giant’s most popular modifiers, which grew 23% year over year, according to Starbucks. 

Exploring alternatives can keep things fresh — and sometimes cheaper:

• Dunkin’: Pumpkin Swirl drinks and new latte creations.
• Peet’s Coffee: Bolder spice blends and dairy-free options.
• Local Cafés: Independent shops often experiment with unique twists, like maple-pumpkin lattes or chai-pumpkin blends.

Sometimes, the best PSL is the one that surprises you.

The Cozy Factor: More Than Just Coffee

At the end of the day, Pumpkin Spice Lattes are about more than caffeine. They’re a way to mark the season, create small rituals, and pause for comfort. Pairing your PSL with fall activities — like a walk through crunchy leaves, a trip to the pumpkin patch, or simply curling up with a good book — makes the indulgence feel even richer.

Conclusion – Priceless Flavor in Every Sip

The Pumpkin Spice Latte has earned its place as fall’s most beloved drink, and in 2025, it’s back in full force. Yes, coffee prices are rising, but the joy of sipping a warm, spiced latte is something many of us aren’t ready to give up.

The key is balance. Treat yourself to a café PSL when you crave it, but also take advantage of pre-made bottles, grocery store creamers, loyalty programs, and DIY recipes to keep costs in check.

Because in the end, Pumpkin spice latte (PSL) season isn’t about the price — it’s about the feeling of fall in a cup. And that, truly, is priceless.