Beef brisket has become an increasingly popular cut of meat in recent years, especially among barbecue enthusiasts. However, with rising popularity comes rising prices. Brisket costs have steadily climbed over the past several years due to a variety of factors.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about current brisket prices so you can determine if it fits your budget
What Influences the Cost of Brisket?
Several key factors impact the average price per pound for brisket:
- Quality grade – Select, Choice, Prime, Wagyu
- Type of cut – Whole packer, flat, point
- Weight – Prices quoted are usually per pound
- Where it’s sold – Grocery store, butcher shop, online
- Time of year – Prices fluctuate seasonally
Higher quality grades like Prime and Wagyu cost more due to extra marbling The flat cut tends to be more expensive than a whole packer brisket as well
Current Average Prices for Brisket
Here are the average prices you can expect to pay for brisket currently:
- Select Grade: $3.50-$4.00 per pound
- Choice Grade: $4.50-$5.50 per pound
- Prime Grade: $5.50-$7.00 per pound
- Wagyu: $9.00+ per pound
Of course, prices vary depending on exact weight, retailer, and location. Local butcher shops also tend to charge a premium over grocery stores.
Pro Tip: Look for markdowns during the winter when demand drops. And buy larger sizes like whole packers to get a lower per-pound price.
Grocery Store Brisket Prices
Grocery stores offer a convenient brisket source. Here’s an overview of pricing across top national supermarket chains:
Walmart
- Choice grade whole brisket: ~$3.50/lb
- Choice grade flat cut: ~$7.50/lb
- Prime grade limited availability
Kroger
- Choice grade whole brisket: ~$4.99/lb
- Choice grade flat cut: ~$9.99/lb
- Prime grade whole brisket: ~$6.99/lb
Publix
- Choice grade whole brisket: ~$6.30/lb
- Choice grade flat cut: ~$12.50/lb
- Prime grade limited availability
Costco
- Choice grade whole brisket: ~$3.50/lb
- Prime grade whole brisket: ~$5/lb
Key Takeaway: Costco frequently has the best brisket selection and prices among grocery stores.
Specialty Shop Pricing
Local butchers and online meat retailers offer premium brisket options at higher price points:
- Choice whole brisket: $7-$9/lb
- Prime whole brisket: $9-$12/lb
- Wagyu brisket: $12-$15+/lb
For the best quality like American Wagyu, shops like Crowd Cow and Snake River Farms are ideal. The convenience of delivery comes at a cost though.
Brisket Prices at BBQ Restaurants
Ordering smoked brisket at a restaurant costs significantly more than buying it yourself. Here’s what to expect:
- Fast casual BBQ: $18-$25/lb
- Mid-range BBQ: $25-$35/lb
- Upscale BBQ: $30-$40+/lb
These elevated prices account for high meat costs, extensive labor for long smoking times, and overhead expenses. Brisket prices have risen at restaurants across the country in recent years.
Buying Less Expensive Brisket
Here are 5 tips to get brisket at better prices:
- Buy choice grade instead of prime
- Purchase whole packers rather than pre-trimmed flats
- Look for markdowns in winter months
- Check warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club
- Buy in bulk quantities and freeze extras
With some savvy shopping, you can find brisket for $3.50-$4.50/lb on average for choice packers.
How Much Brisket Should You Buy?
- Raw Meat: Plan on 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 lb per person
- Cooked Brisket: Estimate 1⁄3 to 1⁄2 lb per person
A 10-15 lb packer brisket feeds 10-15 people typically. Remember it loses 30-40% of its weight when cooked.
For big gatherings, allow extra for leftovers. Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze for later.
Is Brisket Worth the High Price?
- Brisket remains affordable compared to premium steaks on a per serving basis
- The flavorful point cut transforms into burnt ends
- Leftovers make amazing sandwiches and meals all week long
With proper preparation, brisket delivers outstanding value, even with higher prices. The cost is well worth it for this exceptionally tasty, quintessential barbecue meat.
The Bottom Line on Brisket Prices
- Expect to spend $4.50-$7.00 per pound on average
- Prime grade and specialty cuts cost more
- Look for deals on packers at warehouse stores
- Prices at BBQ joints are significantly higher
Understand the current market rates in your area, choose an affordable grade and cut, and use leftover brisket creatively. This helps offset the higher prices while letting you enjoy amazing barbecue beef brisket at home.
Understanding the Whole Brisket.
The whole packer brisket includes both the flat and point cuts, providing a larger, more flavorful option for those who enjoy a more extended cooking process.
Purchasing a whole brisket from reputable sources like Snake River Farms or Costco can offer both quality and quantity. You can also purchase a brisket that has the flat or the point cut separated if you prefer one or the other.
What influences the price of brisket?
The price of brisket is influenced by various factors, and these can vary depending on the region, market conditions, and other economic factors. Here are some key factors that can determine the price of brisket:
- Quality and Grade: The quality and grade of the brisket play a significant role in its price. Higher-quality or graded meats, such as USDA Prime, are often more expensive than lower-quality cuts like choice or select.
- Cut and Trim Level: The way the brisket is cut and trimmed can affect its price. For example, a whole, untrimmed brisket might be less expensive than a trimmed or pre-packaged brisket.
- Supply and Demand: If there is a high demand for brisket and a limited supply, prices may rise. Conversely, if there is an oversupply or lower demand, prices may decrease.
- Seasonal Factors: Brisket prices might increase around popular grilling holidays like Memorial Day or Fourth of July.
- Geographic Location: The cost of living and regional preferences can also influence the price of brisket. Prices may vary from one location to another due to transportation costs, regional demand, and local economic factors.
- Processing and Packaging Costs: The way the brisket is processed, packaged, and distributed can affect its final price.
- Specialty or Organic Options: If the brisket is labeled as organic, grass-fed, or sourced from specialty breeds, it is likely to be more expensive than conventionally raised brisket due to higher production costs associated with these practices.
BBQ Math: How to determine the price you’ll charge for your brisket
FAQ
What is the average price of brisket?
Advertised beef brisket prices in the U.S. 2016-2021. Between December 10 and December 16, 2021, beef brisket was advertised at 8.84 U.S. dollars per pound on average at major U.S. supermarkets. In the previous year, beef brisket was priced at about five U.S. dollars per pound on average.
How much does a 10 pound brisket serve?
The best rule of thumb is to factor about 1/2 lb. raw brisket per person, which will yield a rough average of about 1/4 lb. of cooked brisket per person. If brisket is the star of the show and few side dishes accompany it, you might consider bumping that to 3/4 lb.
Is brisket the cheapest cut of meat?
Brisket. Untrimmed beef brisket is still one of the least expensive cuts of beef you can buy.Sep 18, 2019
How much does a brisket cost?
A whole USDA Choice brisket costs on average $9 per pound. Meanwhile, a whole USDA Prime brisket is an average of $10.50 per pound. For American Wagyu brisket, expect to pay about $12.41 per pound. Snake River Farms says this particular cut is the “secret ingredient” for many championship-winning barbecue teams.
How much does brisket cost at Costco?
Online prices can vary depending on the retailer, the quality of the meat, and the shipping costs. On average, you can expect to pay between $5 and $15 per pound for brisket online. Costco is known for offering high-quality meat at competitive prices, and brisket is no exception. If you are a Costco member, you can buy brisket at a great price.
How much does a pound of brisket cost in Memphis?
Let’s take a look at the current brisket price per pound at some of the country’s most recognized barbecue restaurants: As you’ll see, the cost greatly varies depending on location: Cozy Corner BBQ: The best BBQ Memphis has to offer, the price is the best, too. You’ll spend just $14.50 per pound of sliced beef brisket.
How much does beef brisket cost in 2025?
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about brisket prices in 2025 to help you make an informed purchasing decision. The average price for beef brisket in grocery stores currently ranges from $4 to $5 per pound for standard cuts.
Are brisket prices rising?
In America, brisket prices are up by 16 percent since last year, and the cost appears to be increasing. Until recently, beef brisket was a downright cheap cut of meat. These days, purchasing brisket is going to put a bigger dent in your wallet. What gives? One of the causes of rising beef prices is inflation.
How much does a pound of brisket cost in Houston?
Gatlin’s BBQ: Arguably the best barbecue in Houston, brisket costs $26.95/lb here right now. Hometown BBQ: Located in Brooklyn, you’re looking at $40 per pound for beef brisket in the big city. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que: At Joe’s, you’ll find brisket costing $20.99 per pound.