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10 Largest Craft Breweries In The United States

By Elsie Boskamp
May. 28, 2021
Last Modified and Fact Checked on: Jan. 27, 2026

10 Largest Craft Breweries in the United States (2026 Update)

The craft beer industry continues to thrive as beer enthusiasts seek unique flavors and experiences from independently owned breweries and taprooms across the United States. As of 2026, the craft beer market has solidified its position, now accounting for about 25% of the country’s beer market, which is valued at over $100 billion, with craft beer sales estimated at around $25 billion.

Independent, often family-run craft breweries produce a wide variety of styles, from ales and lagers to stouts and porters. The resilience of this market has been evident, with craft breweries producing an impressive volume and remaining competitive in a rapidly evolving beverage landscape.

This article presents a current look at the ten largest craft breweries in the United States, showcasing their production volumes, employee counts, and unique contributions to the craft beer scene.

  1. D.G. Yuengling and Son Jobs (Overview)

  2. Boston Beer Jobs (Overview)

  3. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Jobs (Overview)

  4. The Gambrinus Company Jobs (Overview)

  5. CANarchy Jobs (Overview)

  6. Bell’s Brewery Jobs (Overview)

  7. Stone Brewing Jobs (Overview)

  8. Deschutes Brewery Jobs (Overview)

10 Largest Craft Breweries in the United States (2026)

Here are the top 10 largest craft breweries in the United States by total annual production volume:

  1. D.G. Yuengling and Son Pottsville, Pennsylvania

    Production Volume: 2.6 million barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 350

    As the oldest craft brewery in the United States, D.G. Yuengling and Son continues to lead the industry. Founded in 1829, this family-owned brewery has seen substantial growth, recently expanding its operations and distribution network through a partnership with Molson Coors, improving its presence on the West Coast.

    The brewery produces popular offerings such as Yuengling Traditional Lager and Yuengling Hershey’s Chocolate Porter across its facilities in Pennsylvania and Florida.

    2. Find D.G. Yuengling and Son Jobs Near Me

  2. Boston Beer Boston, Massachusetts

    Production Volume: 1.75 million barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 2,128

    Founded in 1984, Boston Beer Company, known for its Samuel Adams brand, remains a leader in the craft sector. With a production capacity of over 60 beer styles, the company has also diversified into hard seltzers and ciders, maintaining a robust market presence across all fifty states.

    In 2020, Boston Beer Company achieved $1.74 billion in annual net revenue, showcasing its growth trajectory.

    3. Find Boston Beer Jobs Near Me

  3. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Chico, California

    Production Volume: 1.25 million barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 1,100

    Established in 1979, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company has maintained its reputation for quality, producing a variety of beers, including its flagship Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. The company has experienced consistent growth, generating approximately $300 million in annual sales.

    Sierra Nevada also operates several tasting rooms, enhancing its community engagement and brand image.

    4. Find Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Jobs Near Me

  4. Duvel Moortgat/Firestone Walker Brewing Company Paso Robles, California

    Production Volume: 1.17 million barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 360

    Duvel Moortgat, a renowned Belgian brewery, expanded its influence in the U.S. by partnering with Firestone Walker in 2015. This collaboration has allowed them to produce a diverse lineup of beers, celebrated for their unique European styles.

  5. The Gambrinus Company San Antonio, Texas

    Production Volume: 605,000 barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 124

    As the oldest independent craft brewery in Texas, The Gambrinus Company has maintained its traditional brewing roots while expanding its product line, including the iconic Shiner Bock. The brewery continues to thrive in a competitive market, focusing on quality and heritage.

    6. Find The Gambrinus Company Jobs Near Me

  6. CANarchy Longmont, Colorado

    Production Volume: 490,000 barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 900

    CANarchy, founded in 2015, operates as a collective of various craft breweries. It has quickly become a significant player in the craft beer industry, offering a diverse portfolio of brands and expanding its distribution across the U.S. and internationally.

    7. Find CANarchy Jobs Near Me

  7. Bell’s Brewery, Inc. Kalamazoo, Michigan

    Production Volume: 466,700 barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 600

    Starting as a homebrewing supply store, Bell’s Brewery has evolved into Michigan’s largest craft brewery. With a wide range of innovative beers, Bell’s has become a staple in the craft beer community, producing nearly 500,000 barrels annually.

    8. Find Bell’s Brewery Jobs Near Me

  8. Stone Brewing Escondido, California

    Production Volume: 325,645 barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 1,100

    Stone Brewing, founded in 1996, has become a leading brand in the craft beer market, known for its bold flavors and extensive lineup of hoppy beers. With a robust distribution network, Stone’s products are available in numerous countries around the globe.

    9. Find Stone Brewing Jobs Near Me

  9. Artisanal Brewing Ventures Charlotte, North Carolina

    Production Volume: 300,000 barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 128

    Founded in 2014, Artisanal Brewing Ventures has established itself as a significant player through its ownership of various craft breweries. The company has continued to grow, capitalizing on the rising demand for premium craft beers.

  10. Deschutes Brewery Bend, Oregon

    Production Volume: 250,000 barrels of beer
    Number Of Employees: 490

    Deschutes Brewery, established in 1988, has become a hallmark of the craft beer movement, with a focus on community and quality. Known for its flagship Black Butte Porter, Deschutes Brewery continues to innovate while maintaining a strong local presence.

    11. Find Deschutes Brewery Jobs Near Me

    Ranking the World’s Largest Craft Breweries

    This list ranks the largest craft breweries in the United States based on total annual production volume, measured in barrels of beer. Only breweries that meet the Brewers Association’s definition of a craft brewery are included, ensuring that all listed breweries are independently owned and produce less than 6 million barrels annually.

    This ranking provides insight into the growing influence of craft breweries in the broader beer market and highlights the importance of local, independent brewing in the United States.

Author

Elsie Boskamp

Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.

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