Nestled in the heart of Texas, Hays stands as a vibrant community, blending the charm of small-town living with the dynamism of a growing urban area. Its strategic location, just a stone's throw from bustling cities like Austin and San Antonio, positions it as a significant player in the region's economic landscape. Among its many facets, the alcohol sales market in Hays offers intriguing insights into local consumer behavior and business trends.
This article presents a data-driven analysis of alcohol sales in Hays, shedding light on the businesses and areas that drive this segment of the market. In the first section, readers will discover a meticulously curated table that ranks the top alcohol-selling establishments, accompanied by an analysis of what sets these venues apart. The following section delves into zip code-specific sales data, revealing which neighborhoods boast the highest concentrations of alcohol purchases.
To round off the exploration, a monthly trends analysis will trace the ebb and flow of alcohol sales over the past year, highlighting seasonal patterns and economic influences. Whether you're a business owner, a resident, or simply curious about the local economy, this detailed report offers a comprehensive view of Hays's alcohol sales landscape as of April 2025.
Top 25 Hays Businesses By October 2025 Alcohol Sales
| # | Establishment | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |
Peak Beverage Texas LLC
|
$369,746 |
$213,158
|
$58,194
|
$98,394
|
| 2. |
Camp Lucy
|
$259,434 |
$116,654
|
$108,893
|
$33,887
|
| 3. |
Logies on the Square
|
$233,870 |
$165,040
|
$338
|
$68,492
|
| 4. |
Hays City Store
|
$231,009 |
$158,468
|
$10,851
|
$61,690
|
| 5. |
Twin Peaks
|
$169,413 |
$59,180
|
$1,158
|
$109,075
|
| 6. |
Zelicks
|
$163,608 |
$108,168
|
$1,186
|
$54,254
|
| 7. |
Freddy C's Lounge/wildfiresmtx
|
$144,317 |
$112,863
|
$46
|
$31,408
|
| 8. |
Maverick's Dance Hall
|
$137,394 |
$91,076
|
$308
|
$46,010
|
| 9. |
Nate's at Buda Mill and Grain, Inc.
|
$135,894 |
$88,167
|
$7,064
|
$40,663
|
| 10. |
Chimy's San Marcos
|
$131,447 |
$101,795
|
$0
|
$29,652
|
| 11. |
Whiskey Ridge
|
$125,518 |
$85,971
|
$27,722
|
$11,825
|
| 12. |
The Vault
|
$124,660 |
$78,093
|
$37,999
|
$8,568
|
| 13. |
University Food Services #2222
|
$118,007 |
$40,315
|
$4,363
|
$73,329
|
| 14. |
Black Rabbit Saloon / Shade Rooftop Patio
|
$115,087 |
$92,882
|
$889
|
$21,316
|
| 15. |
Trattoria Lisina
|
$114,039 |
$39,342
|
$70,286
|
$4,411
|
| 16. |
Axis
|
$113,432 |
$98,593
|
$0
|
$14,839
|
| 17. |
Creek House
|
$112,027 |
$72,130
|
$23,728
|
$16,169
|
| 18. |
Dripping Springs Distilling
|
$110,865 |
$108,703
|
$0
|
$0
|
| 19. |
Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant
|
$105,966 |
$84,855
|
$3,688
|
$17,423
|
| 20. |
Mayloo's
|
$103,649 |
$97,015
|
$0
|
$6,634
|
| 21. |
Green Parrot
|
$101,208 |
$0
|
$0
|
$0
|
| 22. |
Taste on Main Steak & Seafood
|
$100,993 |
$65,067
|
$27,327
|
$8,599
|
| 23. |
Nutty Brown Cafe
|
$97,492 |
$44,400
|
$1,485
|
$51,607
|
| 24. |
The Let Go
|
$97,131 |
$67,797
|
$5,775
|
$23,559
|
| 25. |
Railhouse
|
$96,918 |
$54,943
|
$122
|
$41,853
|
Top Performers in Hays
Leading the pack this October in Hays is PEAK BEVERAGE TEXAS LLC with total receipts hitting $369,746. This establishment stands out with its impressive liquor sales, accounting for $213,158 of their total. Wine and beer also contribute significantly, making it a well-rounded performer.
Hot on their heels is CAMP LUCY, boasting $259,434 in total receipts. Unlike PEAK BEVERAGE, Camp Lucy has a more balanced alcohol sales distribution, with wine sales nearly matching liquor at $108,893. Beer sales, though lower, still make a notable contribution.
Noteworthy Establishments
LOGIES ON THE SQUARE and HAYS CITY STORE are neck-and-neck with total receipts of $233,870 and $231,009, respectively. LOGIES stands out with its high liquor sales, while HAYS CITY STORE offers a more diverse selection, with notable contributions from both beer and wine.
TWIN PEAKS and ZELICKS round out the top six, with TWIN PEAKS having the highest beer sales at $109,075, demonstrating a clear beer preference among its patrons.
Trends and Insights
Several establishments, such as FREDDY C'S LOUNGE/WILDFIRESMTX and CHIMY'S SAN MARCOS, focus heavily on liquor sales, with minimal to no wine sales. This could indicate a strategic focus on spirits, perhaps appealing to a specific clientele.
It's interesting to note that DRIPPING SPRINGS DISTILLING reports almost exclusively liquor sales, aligning with its identity as a distillery. Similarly, GREEN PARROT intriguingly reports no sales figures, which could warrant further investigation regarding its operations.
Potential Opportunities
For those in the business or looking to enter the market, the data suggests a strong preference for establishments offering diverse alcohol selections. However, niche markets like distilleries or beer-focused venues like TWIN PEAKS also show robust performance.
Overall, the Hays market presents a dynamic blend of opportunities, with a range of successful strategies in both focused and diverse alcohol sales. Understanding these trends can help new and existing businesses tailor their offerings to maximize profits and customer satisfaction.
Hays Zip Codes By October 2025 Alcohol Sales
| # | Zip Code | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |
78666
|
90 | $3,846,703 |
$2,328,636
|
$160,495
|
$1,174,344
|
| 2. |
78620
|
31 | $1,334,323 |
$832,433
|
$241,042
|
$258,686
|
| 3. |
78610
|
27 | $994,769 |
$547,174
|
$70,730
|
$316,295
|
| 4. |
78640
|
32 | $857,492 |
$485,853
|
$33,179
|
$297,320
|
| 5. |
78676
|
21 | $756,457 |
$388,836
|
$92,473
|
$151,265
|
| 6. |
78619
|
11 | $603,771 |
$370,360
|
$117,113
|
$116,298
|
Top Areas for Alcohol Sales
The zip code 78666 is leading the charge with a whopping $3,846,703 in total sales, accounting for nearly half of the total sales in Hays. This area hosts 90 establishments, making it a bustling hub for liquor, which dominates the sales mix with 61%.
Next in line is 78620, with total sales of $1,334,323 across 31 establishments. Here, liquor also takes the crown at 62%, but there's a notable higher interest in wine at 18% compared to other areas.
Alcohol Preferences by Zip Code
Across most zip codes, liquor is the top choice, but each area has its unique preferences. For instance, in 78676, wine sales are relatively higher at 12%, showing a different taste profile compared to 78666, where wine sales are only 4%.
Beer seems to be more popular in 78640, capturing 35% of the sales. This might indicate a stronger market for craft breweries or beer-focused events in that area.
Opportunities for New Establishments
With 11 establishments, 78619 shows potential for growth, especially since it has an even mix of wine and beer at 19%. New businesses might find opportunities by catering to these interests or expanding liquor selections.
Similarly, 78610, with 27 establishments and a solid preference for beer at 32%, could benefit from new entrants that focus on beer experiences or local brews.
Interesting Patterns and Insights
Overall, Hays showcases a strong preference for liquor across all zip codes, suggesting that new and existing businesses should emphasize this in their product offerings. However, the variations in wine and beer preferences point to niche opportunities for businesses to differentiate themselves.
The distribution of establishments and sales also suggests that areas like 78666, with a high density of businesses, might face stiff competition, whereas less saturated markets like 78619 could offer higher margins for new ventures.
Hays Alcohol Sales Trends: Last 12 Months
| Month | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer | Monthly Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 2025 | 225 | $8,774,290 |
$5,133,852
|
$776,361
|
$2,453,094
|
12.8%
↑
|
| Sep 2025 | 226 | $7,775,698 |
$4,641,797
|
$656,290
|
$2,217,884
|
1%
↓
|
| Aug 2025 | 224 | $7,853,980 |
$4,895,215
|
$610,486
|
$2,166,837
|
9.4%
↑
|
| Jul 2025 | 227 | $7,181,897 |
$4,432,644
|
$546,315
|
$2,045,324
|
5.8%
↓
|
| Jun 2025 | 225 | $7,621,787 |
$4,681,977
|
$636,052
|
$2,172,646
|
19.8%
↓
|
| May 2025 | 227 | $9,501,453 |
$5,855,682
|
$821,147
|
$2,583,225
|
15.3%
↑
|
| Apr 2025 | 229 | $8,237,212 |
$4,945,537
|
$754,475
|
$2,350,051
|
5%
↓
|
| Mar 2025 | 217 | $8,672,189 |
$5,315,138
|
$872,283
|
$2,461,806
|
29.9%
↑
|
| Feb 2025 | 217 | $6,676,038 |
$4,117,744
|
$604,433
|
$1,881,105
|
9%
↑
|
| Jan 2025 | 228 | $6,123,632 |
$3,751,978
|
$557,171
|
$1,766,352
|
18.9%
↓
|
| Dec 2024 | 224 | $7,549,158 |
$4,598,274
|
$753,514
|
$2,105,461
|
4.7%
↓
|
| Nov 2024 | 221 | $7,923,119 |
$4,777,715
|
$780,862
|
$2,288,572
|
0%
↑
|
Monthly Sales Overview
Over the past year, Hays has seen some interesting fluctuations in alcohol sales. The standout month was May 2025, with the highest total receipts of $9.5 million. This indicates a significant peak in consumer spending, possibly driven by seasonal events or promotions during that time. In contrast, January 2025 marked a low point with sales dipping to just over $6.1 million, showcasing a typical post-holiday sales slump.
Trends in Product Categories
The sales mix in Hays has consistently favored liquor, which has maintained the largest share of total receipts across all months. In May 2025, liquor sales reached a peak of $5.9 million, highlighting its dominant role in the market. Beer sales tend to follow liquor as the second most popular category, with a notable increase in May that aligns with the overall sales peak. Wine, while the smallest category, saw its highest sales in March 2025, suggesting a potential seasonal or event-driven spike.
Establishment Dynamics
The number of establishments has fluctuated slightly, with a high of 229 in April 2025 and a low of 217 in March 2025. Despite these changes, sales have shown resilience, indicating that consumer demand remains strong even as the market adjusts. The slight decline in establishments during high-sales months suggests that fewer locations may be capturing a larger share of the market.
Seasonal Patterns and Market Insights
Seasonal patterns are evident, with sales typically climbing from February through May before experiencing a dip in the summer months. This could reflect consumer behavior patterns, where spending increases during warmer months and around holidays. The marked increase in sales during these periods suggests opportunities for businesses to capitalize on promotional activities and targeted marketing strategies.
Year-Over-Year Comparisons
While exact year-over-year data isn't provided, comparing the recent trend to previous years' trends could provide insights into growth areas and market stability. The notable increases in March and May 2025, coupled with a strong rebound in October, may suggest a recovery or growth from the previous year's performance.
Economic Overview
Hays, Texas, is a burgeoning hub that benefits from its strategic location between Austin and San Antonio, two of the state's economic powerhouses. The city's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the technology sector, manufacturing, and education services. Hays has attracted a range of tech startups, capitalizing on the talent pool from nearby universities and the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Additionally, the manufacturing industry, particularly in advanced materials and machinery, plays a crucial role in the local economy.
The business climate in Hays is characterized by a supportive local government that fosters innovation and growth. Incentive programs and a streamlined permitting process make it an attractive destination for new businesses. Over recent years, there has been a noticeable trend of increasing investment in infrastructure, which has further stimulated economic development and created a robust environment for business expansion.
Cultural Scene
Hays boasts a rich cultural scene that reflects the diversity and creativity of its residents. The city is known for its annual festivals, such as the Hays Arts and Music Festival, which draws artists and musicians from across Texas and beyond. This event, among others, has positioned Hays as a cultural destination in the region.
For art enthusiasts, the local galleries and public art installations offer a constant source of inspiration and connection to the community. The Hays Cultural Center frequently hosts exhibitions and performances, making it a cornerstone of the city's cultural life. These events and attractions not only enrich the community but also attract visitors, contributing to the local economy.
Lifestyle
Hays offers a unique lifestyle that combines the charm of a small town with the conveniences of urban living. Popular neighborhoods such as Plum Creek and Sunfield provide residents with a variety of housing options, from modern apartments to family-friendly homes. These areas are known for their community spirit and accessibility to parks and recreational facilities.
The city's entertainment districts are vibrant with a mix of local eateries, boutique shops, and entertainment venues. Downtown Hays is particularly popular for its eclectic mix of independent businesses and lively street markets. The local character is defined by a strong sense of community and a commitment to sustainability, making it an appealing place for families and young professionals alike.
Future Outlook
The future of Hays looks promising, with several development plans aimed at accommodating its growing population while maintaining its unique character. Infrastructure projects are underway to improve transportation links and support economic growth, including expansions to road networks and public transit systems.
Hays is experiencing a steady influx of new residents and businesses, driven by its attractive quality of life and economic opportunities. The city is actively planning for sustainable growth, ensuring that development projects align with environmental and community goals. As Hays continues to evolve, it remains a compelling prospect for investors and businesses looking to tap into its dynamic market and thriving community.