How Much Does It Cost for a Keg of Beer?

Purchasing a keg of beer involves more than just the cost of the beverage itself. Several components contribute to the total expenditure, ranging from the size and type of beer selected to various deposits and equipment rentals. Understanding these different financial aspects can help consumers budget effectively for their event or personal use.

Understanding Keg Sizes and Types

Kegs are available in several standard sizes, each holding a different volume of beer. The most common size in the United States is the half-barrel, which contains 15.5 gallons of beer, equivalent to approximately 165 twelve-ounce servings or 124 sixteen-ounce pints. Another frequently used option is the quarter-barrel, also known as a pony keg, which holds 7.75 gallons, providing around 82 twelve-ounce servings or 62 sixteen-ounce pints. The sixth-barrel, or sixtel, is smaller at 5.17 gallons, offering about 55 twelve-ounce servings or 41 sixteen-ounce pints.

Some imported beers may come in 50-liter kegs, which are roughly 13.2 gallons. The type of beer significantly influences its price, with domestic lagers being more economical than craft ales or specialty imports.

Core Costs of the Beer Itself

The primary expense when acquiring a keg is the beer it contains, and prices vary substantially based on beer type and keg size. For a half-barrel (15.5 gallons) of domestic beer, such as a popular lager, consumers might expect to pay in the range of $120 to $180. Craft beers in a half-barrel can range from $180 to $290 or higher. Imported specialty beers, often found in 13.2-gallon (50-liter) or 15.5-gallon sizes, can command prices from $200 to over $400.

Smaller kegs, such as quarter-barrels (7.75 gallons), cost less, with domestic options falling between $80 and $130. Craft and imported quarter-barrels can range from $100 to $180 or more. Sixth-barrels (5.17 gallons) are priced from $60 to $120 for domestic and some craft selections, while premium craft and imported varieties can exceed $150. These figures are estimates, as actual prices fluctuate based on the specific brand, the retailer’s pricing strategy, and the geographical market.

Additional Required Costs (Deposits and Equipment)

Beyond the price of the beer, several mandatory costs are incurred when renting a keg. A refundable keg shell deposit is standard. This deposit commonly ranges from $30 to $150, though some craft beer kegs might have a higher deposit. This amount is reimbursed upon the timely return of the undamaged keg.

To dispense the beer, a tap or pump is required, which is rented from the vendor. A refundable deposit for the tap ranges from $40 to $100, with an additional non-refundable rental fee of $5 to $20 per day or rental period. Some retailers may also require a deposit for a keg tub or cooler, which can range from $10 to $60, with a rental fee of $3 to $15. These deposits are returned once all items are brought back in good condition within the specified timeframe.

Other Potential Expenses

Several other expenses can contribute to the overall cost of a keg, though these may be variable or optional. Keeping the beer cold necessitates the purchase of ice. A large bag of ice, sufficient for a full-size keg, can cost between $5 and $20, depending on the quantity and retailer. Some retailers offer delivery services for kegs and associated equipment.

Delivery fees, where charged, might range from $15 to $30. Sales tax is another consideration, applied to the purchase price of the beer. States and local jurisdictions impose their own excise taxes and sales taxes, which vary widely by location. The total tax burden on beer can account for a significant portion of the final retail price.