Boulder, CO – The U.S. craft beer industry faced another challenging year in 2025, with overall production declining amid softer beer sales nationwide. Despite the headwinds, craft brewers showed notable resilience by gaining a bit more market share and holding steady in key segments.
Craft Beer Outperforms the Broader Beer Category
Total U.S. craft beer production reached 21,859,000 barrels in 2025, down 5.1% from the previous year. Among reporting breweries, 60% saw declines, 39% posted growth, and 1% remained flat.
Performance varied by brewery type:
- Brewpubs: -1.7%
- Taprooms: -3.9%
- Microbreweries: -8.9%
- Regional breweries: -5.9%
Even with the decline, craft beer held up better than the overall U.S. beer category, which fell 5.7% in volume. This relative strength underscores craft’s enduring appeal in a contracting market.
Craft Beer Market Share Edges Higher
Craft beer’s share of total U.S. beer volume by volume increased slightly from 13.2% to 13.3%, reflecting steady consumer interest in independent and small brewers.
Retail dollar sales of craft beer dipped 3.6% to $27.8 billion. The drop was milder than the volume decline thanks to higher average prices and a continued shift toward on-site consumption at taprooms and brewpubs, where margins tend to be stronger. As a result, craft maintained a stable 24.6% share of total beer retail dollar sales.
Workforce Adjusts to New Realities
Employment in the craft brewing sector fell to 189,000 jobs, a decrease of 8,000 positions or about 4%. Hospitality-focused models (brewpubs and taprooms) helped cushion the impact, as these operations typically require more staff per barrel produced.
Number of U.S. Craft Breweries Declines to 9,578
The total number of operating craft breweries in the United States dropped 2.9% to 9,578.
Breakdown by category:
- Microbreweries: 1,994 (-4.4%)
- Brewpubs: 3,525 (-2.5%)
- Taprooms: 3,784 (-2.7%)
- Regional breweries: 275 (-0.4%)
New brewery openings slowed dramatically to just 300 (down from 518 in 2024), while closures eased to 481 (from 591). This slowdown points to a more mature, competitive craft beer market with fewer easy opportunities for new entrants.
Regional Highlights and Standout Performers
Results varied by region. The East North Central division performed best with a modest +0.3% growth, followed by the Pacific division at nearly flat (-0.1%). Both outperformed the national average.
Breweries with strong brand identities and clear positioning continued to fare better. Notable gainers included Garage Beer Co. and Outlaw (from Tivoli Brewing Company). Hospitality-driven models—especially those offering great value and unique experiences—also proved more resilient with budget-conscious drinkers.
Looking Ahead: Cautious Optimism for Craft Beer
Industry observers point to several encouraging trends: potential improvement in consumer sentiment toward beverage alcohol, the continued strength of well-differentiated brands, and growing demand for experience-focused brewery visits that deliver more than just the beer itself.
“The industry outlook points toward cautious optimism, as shifting trends offer hope for a more stable path forward after several challenging years,” said Matt Gacioch, staff economist at the Brewers Association. “While it’s probably premature to declare a ‘new normal,’ there are many signs we’re heading in that direction. What’s nearly guaranteed is that future success will depend on creating something meaningful and memorable for consumers. Breweries that deliver consistent quality, genuine human connection, and unique experiences will continue to stand out.”
2025 Top 50 Craft Breweries by production
1. D.G. Yuengling and Son Inc – PA
D.G. Yuengling and Son Inc stands as America’s oldest operating brewery, crafting bold, flavorful lagers and traditional ales that have quenched American thirsts for generations with a rich heritage dating back to 1829. Known for its flagship Traditional Lager and a commitment to quality, Yuengling delivers approachable beers perfect for backyard barbecues or casual gatherings.
Address: 420 Mahantongo St, Pottsville, PA 17901
Website: https://www.yuengling.com/
2. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co – CA
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co pioneered the American craft beer movement with its iconic Pale Ale, celebrated for fresh hops, balanced bitterness, and exceptional quality from its California roots since 1980. The brewery offers a wide range of innovative styles alongside year-round favorites, making it a go-to for beer enthusiasts seeking adventure in every sip.
Address: 1075 East 20th Street, Chico, CA 95928
Website: https://sierranevada.com/
3. Boston Beer Co – MA
Boston Beer Co, the force behind Samuel Adams, blends traditional brewing techniques with bold innovation to create award-winning beers like the Boston Lager and seasonal specialties that capture New England’s spirit. Founded in 1984, it continues to push the boundaries of craft beer while maintaining a focus on quality ingredients and community.
Address: One Design Center Place, Suite 850, Boston, MA 02210
Website: https://www.bostonbeer.com/
4. Tilray Beer Brands – NY
Tilray Beer Brands brings together a portfolio of respected craft breweries, delivering diverse high-quality beers that appeal to a wide range of tastes through innovative production and distribution. With a focus on growth in the beverage space, it supports beloved labels that emphasize flavor and craftsmanship.
Address: (Associated with operations including Breckenridge and others; headquarters influence in NY)
Website: https://www.tilray.com/
5. Duvel Moortgat USA – NY
Duvel Moortgat USA imports and represents world-class Belgian-style specialties alongside American craft favorites like Boulevard and Firestone Walker, known for their refined flavors and brewing excellence. The company elevates the beer experience with premium offerings that celebrate tradition and innovation.
Address: 2501 Southwest Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 (USA operations)
Website: https://www.duvelmoortgat.com/
6. Athletic Brewing Company – CT
Athletic Brewing Company leads the non-alcoholic craft beer revolution, brewing great-tasting beers without alcohol so active adults can enjoy bold flavors anytime without compromise. From hoppy IPAs to refreshing lagers, its lineup delivers craft quality for runners, athletes, and mindful drinkers alike.
Address: (Main operations in Milford, CT area)
Website: https://athleticbrewing.com/
7. Gambrinus – TX
Gambrinus serves as a powerhouse marketer and producer of beloved craft beers, including Shiner Bock from the historic Spoetzl Brewery in Texas, offering approachable, flavorful brews with deep regional roots and consistent quality.
Address: 14800 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX 78232
Website: https://www.gambrinus.com/
8. Brooklyn Brewery – NY
Brooklyn Brewery has been a cornerstone of New York craft beer since 1988, famous for its Brooklyn Lager and an eclectic range of innovative ales that reflect the vibrant energy of Williamsburg. The tasting room offers a lively spot to enjoy fresh pours and community vibes.
Address: 79 N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Website: https://brooklynbrewery.com/
9. Monster Brewing – CO
Monster Brewing unites a collective of craft powerhouses like Oskar Blues, delivering bold, can-forward beers packed with flavor and attitude that have reshaped the independent craft scene across the country.
Address: (Operations centered in Longmont, CO and beyond)
Website: https://www.canarchy.beer/
10. Deschutes Brewery – OR
Deschutes Brewery crafts damn tasty beers in Bend, Oregon, with flagship favorites like Mirror Pond Pale Ale and Black Butte Porter showcasing Pacific Northwest hops and creativity since 1988.
Address: 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR 97702 (main brewery)
Website: https://deschutesbrewery.com/
11. Artisanal Brewing Ventures – NC
Artisanal Brewing Ventures supports a family of exceptional craft breweries, bringing expertise and resources to deliver diverse, high-quality beers that celebrate creativity and passion across multiple locations.
Address: 4001 Yancey Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217
Website: https://artbrewventures.com/
12. Garage Beer Co – OH
Garage Beer Co keeps it simple and fun with approachable, flavorful light beers designed for easy drinking and good times right here in Ohio.
Address: 1610 Oak Street, Columbus, OH 43205
Website: https://drinkgaragebeer.com/
13. New Glarus Brewing Co – WI
New Glarus Brewing Co creates unique, fruit-forward beers and classics that capture Wisconsin pride, with favorites like Spotted Cow delighting fans from its hilltop brewery.
Address: 218 Hoesly Dr, New Glarus, WI 53574
Website: https://newglarusbrewing.com/
14. Matt Brewing Co – NY
Matt Brewing Co, producers of Saranac beers, carries on a family legacy since 1888 with a diverse lineup of craft lagers, ales, and seasonal releases from Utica, New York.
Address: 811 Edward Street, Utica, NY 13502
Website: https://www.saranac.com/
15. Georgetown Brewing Co – WA
Georgetown Brewing Co crafts darn tasty beers like the iconic Manny’s Pale Ale in Seattle, delivering balanced, approachable flavors that have made it Washington state’s largest independent brewery.
Address: 5200 Denver Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108
Website: https://georgetownbeer.com/
16. Gordon Biersch Brewing Co – CA
Gordon Biersch Brewing Co specializes in German-style lagers brewed with traditional four ingredients, offering crisp, naturally carbonated beers paired with great food experiences.
Address: 357 East Taylor St, San Jose, CA 95112
Website: https://gordonbiersch.com/
17. Fiddlehead Brewing – VT
Fiddlehead Brewing produces approachable, multidimensional beers in Vermont, with standout Double IPAs like Second Fiddle earning a loyal following among hop lovers.
Address: 6305 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482
Website: https://fiddleheadbrewing.com/
18. Tivoli Brewing Company – CO
Tivoli Brewing Company revives Denver’s historic lager heritage with quality brews that honor tradition while embracing modern craft sensibilities in Colorado.
Address: 900 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 (historic location)
Website: https://tivoli-brewing.com/
19. Rhinegeist Brewery – OH
Rhinegeist Brewery brings people together in Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood with hop-forward beers like Truth IPA, ciders, and a vibrant taproom experience.
Address: 1910 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Website: https://rhinegeist.com/
20. Narragansett Brewing Co – RI
Narragansett Brewing Co is Rhode Island’s hometown favorite since 1890, now brewing fresh in Providence with a lineup of crisp lagers and innovative ales that celebrate local heritage.
Address: 271 Tockwotton St, Providence, RI 02903
Website: https://www.narragansettbeer.com/
21. Allagash Brewing Company – ME
Allagash Brewing Company is renowned for its world-class Belgian-inspired beers, particularly its wild and sour program that has influenced the American craft scene from Portland, Maine.
Address: 50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103
Website: https://www.allagash.com/
22. Tröegs Brewing Co – PA
Tröegs Brewing Co crafts imaginative, award-winning beers like Troegenator and Perpetual IPA with a focus on quality and creativity in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Address: 200 E Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033
Website: https://troegs.com/
23. Barrel One Collective – MA
Barrel One Collective brings together expertise in barrel-aged and specialty beers, delivering complex, flavorful experiences rooted in Massachusetts craft brewing. Beers include Harpoon, Smuttynose, UFO, Long Trail, Clown Shoes, and Greater Good
Address: 306 Northern Ave. Boston, MA 02210
Website: https://barrelonecollective.com/
24. August Schell Brewing Company – MN
August Schell Brewing Company, Minnesota’s oldest family-owned brewery since 1860, produces traditional German-style lagers and seasonal specialties with authentic craftsmanship.
Address: 1860 Schell Rd, New Ulm, MN 56073
Website: https://schellsbrewery.com/
25. Three Floyds Brewing – IN
Three Floyds Brewing is legendary for its bold, hop-centric beers like Alpha King and Dark Lord, pushing flavor boundaries from Munster, Indiana.
Address: 9750 Indiana Pkwy, Munster, IN 46321
Website: https://www.3floyds.com/
26. Great Lakes Brewing Company – OH
Great Lakes Brewing Company has been a Cleveland staple since 1988, known for its Dortmunder Gold and a range of balanced, high-quality beers that highlight Midwest pride.
Address: 2516 Market Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
Website: https://www.greatlakesbrewing.com/
27. Hendler Family Brewing Company – MA
Hendler Family Brewing Company focuses on quality and family tradition in crafting approachable, flavorful beers including Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers in Massachusetts.
Address: 100 Clinton St, Framingham MA 01702
Website: https://hendlerfamilybrewco.com/
28. Stevens Point Brewery – WI
Stevens Point Brewery carries on a proud Wisconsin tradition since 1857 with classic beers like Point Special and innovative craft offerings.
Address: 2617 Water St, Stevens Point, WI 54481
Website: https://www.pointbeer.com/
29. Creature Comforts Brewing Co – GA
Creature Comforts Brewing Co delights with tropical, hazy IPAs and smooth lagers from Athens, Georgia, creating beers that feel like a warm Southern welcome.
Address: 271 W Hancock Ave, Athens, GA 30601
Website: https://creaturecomfortsbeer.com/
30. Great Frontier Holdings – OR
Great Frontier Holdings supports quality craft production in Oregon with a focus on flavorful, innovative beers that capture the spirit of the Pacific Northwest including Ecliptic and Ninkasi beers.
Address: Eugene, Oregon
Website: https://www.greatfrontierbeverages.com/
31. Pittsburgh Brewing Co – PA
Pittsburgh Brewing Co produces iconic Iron City Beer and other favorites with deep Pennsylvania roots and a commitment to refreshing, reliable brews.
Address: 150 Ferry St, Creighton, PA 15030
Website: https://www.pittsburghbrewingco.com/
32. Odell Brewing Co – CO
Odell Brewing Co crafts balanced, hop-forward beers like 90 Shilling from Fort Collins, Colorado, emphasizing quality and drinkability since 1989.
Address: 800 E Lincoln Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524
Website: https://www.odellbrewing.com/
33. Maui Brewing Company – HI
Maui Brewing Company brings island vibes with fresh, flavorful beers like Big Swell IPA, using quality ingredients and a commitment to sustainability in Hawaii.
Address: 4405 Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI 96761 (and Kihei)
Website: https://mauibrewingco.com/
34. Abita Brewing Co – LA
Abita Brewing Co crafts unique, Louisiana-inspired beers like Turbodog and Purple Haze from its brewery north of New Orleans, blending local flavors with craft excellence.
Address: 21084 LA-36, Abita Springs, LA 70420
Website: https://abita.com/
35. BrewDog Brewing Co – OH
BrewDog brings its punk attitude and bold beers, including Punk IPA, to Ohio with a focus on independent craft and fun, flavorful experiences.
Address: 96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
Website: https://www.brewdog.com/
36. Alaskan Brewing Co – AK
Alaskan Brewing Co captures the wild spirit of the Last Frontier with beers like Amber Ale, using pure glacier water and local inspiration since 1986.
Address: 5425 Shaune Dr, Juneau, AK 99801
Website: https://alaskanbeer.com/
37. Kona Brewing Hawaii – HI
Kona Brewing Hawaii delivers refreshing, tropical-inspired beers like Big Wave Golden Ale and Liquid Sunshine, bringing the taste of the islands to life.
Address: 74-5612 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Website: https://konabrewingco.com/
38. Saint Arnold Brewing Co – TX
Saint Arnold Brewing Co, Houston’s oldest craft brewery, creates a diverse lineup including Fancy Lawn Mower and seasonal releases with Texas-sized flavor.
Address: 2000 Lyons Ave, Houston, TX 77020
Website: https://www.saintarnold.com/
39. Revolution Brewing – IL
Revolution Brewing fuels Chicago with bold beers like Anti-Hero IPA and deep community roots in a vibrant taproom setting.
Address: 2323 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Website: https://revbrew.com/
40. Summit Brewing Co – MN
Summit Brewing Co has been a Minnesota favorite since 1986, known for its Extra Pale Ale and a solid range of well-balanced craft beers.
Address: 910 Montreal Cir, St Paul, MN 55102
Website: https://www.summitbrewing.com/
41. Pizza Port – CA
Pizza Port combines award-winning beers with excellent pizza across Southern California locations, famous for its hoppy offerings and beachy brewpub vibe.
Address: (Multiple CA locations, e.g., Solana Beach)
Website: https://pizzaport.com/
42. New Trail Brewing Company – PA
New Trail Brewing Company explores bold trails with flavorful, adventurous beers from its Pennsylvania brewery, appealing to those seeking new experiences in craft.
Address: 240 Arch Street, Building 18, Williamsport, PA 17701
Website: https://newtrailbrewing.com/
43. pFriem Family Brewers – OR
pFriem Family Brewers crafts elegant, European-inspired beers with Northwest ingredients in Hood River, Oregon, emphasizing balance and quality.
Address: 707 Portway Ave #101, Hood River, OR 97031
Website: https://pfriembeer.com/
44. Russian River Brewing Co – CA
Russian River Brewing Co is a benchmark for sour and barrel-aged beers, with Pliny the Elder defining the West Coast IPA style from California.
Address: 2300 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Website: https://russianriverbrewing.com/
45. The Florida Brewery – FL
The Florida Brewery produces approachable, high-volume favorites with a focus on refreshing beers suited to the Sunshine State’s lifestyle.
Address: 202 Gandy Road, Auburndale, FL, 33823
Website: https://floridabrewery.com/
46. Maine Beer Company – ME
Maine Beer Company emphasizes “Do what’s right” with clean, hop-driven beers like Lunch IPA and a strong commitment to sustainability and quality in Freeport.
Address: 537 US-1, Freeport, ME 04032
Website: https://www.mainebeercompany.com/
47. Surly Brewing Company – MN
Surly Brewing Company transformed the Minneapolis scene with aggressive, flavorful beers like Furious and a massive beer hall experience.
Address: 520 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Website: https://surlybrewing.com/
48. BJ’s Restaurants, Inc – CA
BJ’s Restaurants, Inc brews its own award-winning beers alongside a full menu, offering a relaxed brewpub experience with house favorites across its locations.
Address: (Multiple CA locations; headquarters in Huntington Beach)
Website: https://www.bjsrestaurants.com/
49. Coronado Brewing Co – CA
Coronado Brewing Co delivers island-inspired beers like Mermaid’s Red from its San Diego roots, pairing great brews with coastal vibes.
Address: 170 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Website: https://coronadobrewing.com/
50. Fat Head’s Brewery – OH
Fat Head’s Brewery crafts bold, award-winning beers like Head Hunter IPA with a fun, flavorful approach from its Ohio locations and beyond.
Address: 17450 Engle Lake Dr, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
Website: https://fatheadsbeer.com/
More information about the Brewers Association.
The Brewers Association traces its roots back to the early days of the American craft beer movement. Formed in 2005 through the merger of the Brewers’ Association of America (originally established in 1942 as the Small Brewers Committee) and the Association of Brewers, the organization built upon decades of advocacy that began with homebrewing pioneer Charlie Papazian’s founding of the American Homebrewers Association in 1978. What started as a small group focused on securing basic resources for independent brewers has evolved into the leading voice for small and independent craft brewing in the United States, helping transform a niche hobby into a vibrant national industry.
Today, the Brewers Association serves as the not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s small and independent craft brewers, their beers, and the broader community of brewing enthusiasts. Representing more than 9,000 U.S. breweries, the association provides essential industry data and research, advocates for favorable policies at the state and federal levels, organizes major events such as the Craft Brewers Conference, Great American Beer Festival, and World Beer Cup, and publishes valuable resources through Brewers Publications and CraftBeer.com. With a strong focus on education, community building, and celebrating innovation, the Brewers Association continues to champion the independent craft brewer seal and support breweries as they navigate a dynamic and competitive marketplace.
Address:1327 Spruce Street Boulder, CO 80302 United States
Website: https://www.brewersassociation.org/
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