How Many Breweries Are There in the US?

There were 80 breweries operating in the US in 1983, but by 2011, there were 1,989 — an increase of more than 2,400%. More than 1,900 of these beer-making businesses are small, independent enterprises that are known as craft breweries. Experts attribute the increase in the number of American breweries to an increased demand for quality beer.

More about US breweries:

• In 2010, there were 767 breweries in the United Kingdom. As is true in the US, many of the newer breweries in the UK are craft breweries, founded in response to increased demands for high-quality beer.


• The American Homebrewers Association has estimated that 1 million people in the US brew beer or make win at home at least once a year.


• In 1873, the US had 4,131 breweries. More efficient distribution of beer caused the number to decline, because fewer breweries were needed to keep up with demand.