How Much Does 1 Ounce of Beef Jerky Cost?

Beef jerky is a popular high-protein snack that’s made by drying and curing sliced beef With its portability and long shelf life without refrigeration, beef jerky can be a convenient snack to grab when you’re on the go But with so many brands and package sizes available, how much does an ounce of beef jerky cost?

In this article, we’ll break down the average cost per ounce of beef jerky and what impacts the price. We’ll also provide tips on getting the best deals and where to find affordable jerky.

Average Price per Ounce of Beef Jerky

Beef jerky prices can vary quite a bit depending on factors like brand, package size retailer and quality. But here’s a general overview of average per ounce pricing

• At grocery stores, an ounce of name-brand beef jerky typically costs $1.50 – $3.

• Bulk packs at warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club run about $0.60 – $1 per ounce.

• Buying in bulk online can cost as low as $0.40 – $0.80 per ounce.

• At convenience stores and gas stations, an ounce of jerky is usually $1 – $2.50.

• Premium artisanal brands range from $3 – $7 per ounce.

As you can see, buying larger bulk packages generally offers a better deal per ounce compared to smaller pouches.

What Impacts the Price of Beef Jerky?

There are several factors that influence the retail price per ounce of beef jerky:

• Brand: Big name brands cost more than generic store brands.

• Meat Quality: Grass-fed or organic jerky costs more than conventional.

• Package Size: Larger bulk bags offer a lower cost per ounce.

• Retail Location: Prices run higher at convenience stores.

• Processing Method: Handmade artisanal jerky costs more than mass-produced.

• Ingredients: Premium spices and flavorings drive up costs.

• Convenience: Pre-sliced and seasoned jerky costs more.

Tips for Finding the Best Beef Jerky Deals

Here are some tips to help you find affordable beef jerky prices:

• Buy in bulk bags rather than single 2-3 oz pouches.

• Opt for warehouse club brands instead of national brands.

• Shop online specialty shops with discount bulk pricing.

• Avoid buying jerky at convenience stores or airports.

• Compare cost per ounce rather than total package price.

• Look for online deals, coupons and promo codes.

• Buy whole strips and slice them yourself.

• Make your own jerky from fresh beef at home.

Where to Buy Budget-Friendly Beef Jerky

Here are some of the best places to find cheaper beef jerky:

• Costco: Kirkland jerky under $1 per oz.

• Sam’s Club: Member’s Mark brand for $0.60/oz.

• Amazon: Bulk bags from various brands.

• Walmart: Great Value or Jack Link’s for under $2/oz.

• Aldi: Clancy’s brand jerky for $0.70/oz.

• Dollar Stores: Jerky sticks under $1.50/oz.

• Online Shops: Offer discount pricing on bulk jerky.

• DIY at Home: Make your own for $0.50/oz or less.

Average Pricing of Popular Beef Jerky Brands

To give you an idea of real-world beef jerky prices, here’s what you can expect to pay per ounce for some top brands:

• Jack Link’s (2.85 oz): $1.40/oz

• Slim Jim (5 count): $1.60/oz

• Oberto (3 oz): $2.00/oz

• Krave (1.5 oz): $2.00/oz

• Duke’s (1.5 oz): $1.33/oz

• Tillamook (1.5 oz): $1.33/oz

• Perky Jerky (1.2 oz): $2.50/oz

Buying larger bulk sizes can reduce the per ounce costs. But this provides a general price range for popular jerky brands found in stores.

Making Homemade Jerky to Save Money

To get the best value on jerky, consider making it at home. Here’s a quick overview:

• Buy eye of round roast on sale for $3 to $5 per pound.

• Slice into 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick strips.

• Marinate overnight in a jerky cure.

• Dehydrate 4-6 hours at 145°F to 155°F.

• Cost comes out to around $0.40 to $0.60 per ounce.

So for the price of one bag from the store, you can make multiple pounds of jerky at home to enjoy!

Is Beef Jerky Worth the Price?

At around $2 per ounce, beef jerky can seem expensive compared to other protein snacks. But fans feel it’s worthwhile for the portability, shelf life, nutrition and convenience it provides.

To get the best deal, shop for bulk packages online or at warehouse clubs whenever possible. And consider making your own jerky at home for the most affordable way to enjoy this tasty and protein-packed snack!

The Bottom Line

The average cost of beef jerky is typically $1.50 – $3 per ounce at major grocery stores. But buying in bulk, comparing cost per ounce, and looking for deals can reduce the price to around $0.60 – $1 per ounce or less.

While a bit pricy, beef jerky remains popular for its high protein content, portability, and long shelf life without refrigeration. With some savvy shopping and buying in bulk, beef jerky can still be a reasonably priced snack choice for many jerky lovers.