How Much Does a Pound of Ground Beef Cost? A Detailed Look at Prices and Trends

Ground beef is one of the most popular and versatile meats in American cuisine. From hamburgers to meatballs, tacos to chili, it’s a staple ingredient in many household kitchens. But with prices fluctuating over time, how much does a pound of ground beef cost on average? Let’s take a closer look at current prices, historical trends and factors impacting costs.

Current Prices for Ground Beef per Pound

As of April 2025, the average price for a pound of 100% ground beef in US city retail markets is $5.801 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This represents the highest price on record for the month of April.

Prices can vary between specific grocery stores and locations. For example, a spot check of Walmart.com in May 2025 showed prices ranging from $3.28 per pound for 85% lean ground beef to $7.47 per pound for 90% lean organic ground beef. So prices for a pound can range significantly based on the specific type, fat content, brand and retailer.

Historical Trends in Ground Beef Prices

Over the past several decades the nominal price of ground beef has been on an upward trajectory with some fluctuations from year to year. Here is a look at historical prices since 2000

• 2000: $1.51 per pound
• 2005: $2.50 per pound
• 2010: $2.83 per pound
• 2015: $4.10 per pound
• 2020: $4.33 per pound

In the last couple years prices have spiked to unprecedented levels

• 2022: $4.81 per pound (yearly average)
• 2023: $5.02 per pound
• 2024: $5.35 per pound (highest yearly average on record)

So in the last 5 years alone, average ground beef prices have increased around 27% from $410 per pound in 2015 to over $530 per pound currently.

Why Are Beef Prices Rising? Key Factors

There are several interrelated factors driving the increase in ground beef prices over the long term:

• Increased global demand – Rising incomes and changing diets in developing countries like China and India have driven up export demand for American beef. This puts upward pressure on prices within the US.

• Supply chain disruptions – Issues like labor shortages, high transportation costs, and supply chain bottlenecks have increased production and distribution costs for beef in recent years. These higher costs get passed onto consumers.

• Elevated feed costs – Crops like corn and soybeans used for cattle feed have seen prices rise significantly, pushing up production costs and beef prices. The Russia-Ukraine war has recently exacerbated this.

• Meat processing capacity – Consolidation in the meatpacking industry has reduced capacity and ability to meet growing beef demand, increasing prices. Worker shortages during COVID made this worse.

• Weather impacts – Droughts, flooding and other weather extremes have impacted grazing lands and cattle herd sizes regionally, restricting supply and raising prices.

• High inflation – Broad inflationary pressure from stimulative fiscal and monetary policies has impacted the prices of many goods, including beef. Ground beef prices have risen faster than general inflation though.

Price Differences by Fat Percentage

Not all ground beef is the same when it comes to fat content. The amount of fat marbling affects the taste, texture, and price. Here’s an overview:

• 80% lean / 20% fat – The least expensive option but also the greasiest. Good for burgers and dishes where fat content isn’t as important. Average price around $4.50 per pound.

• 85% lean / 15% fat – The most commonly purchased ground beef. Provides a balanced taste and texture. Average price around $4.75 per pound.

• 90% lean / 10% fat – A healthier option with less fat and calories. However, may be drier for burgers. Average price around $5.25 per pound.

• 95% lean / 5% fat – Very low in fat but not well-suited to hamburgers and may dry out. Often used for chili or tacos. Average price around $5.50 per pound.

So fat percentage presents trade-offs between price, taste, and health. Paying a bit more per pound for 90-95% lean can provide health benefits but compromise texture and moisture.

Saving Money on Ground Beef

Given the high and rising prices, many consumers are looking for ways to save money on ground beef purchases without sacrificing quality:

• Buy larger packages or in bulk – The per pound cost is usually lower with family packs or bulk-sized packages.

• Look for sales, coupons and loyalty card discounts – Retailers frequently discount ground beef so watch for deals.

• Purchase fattier blends – Getting 80% lean versus 95% will provide big savings, albeit with higher fat content.

• Consider store brands – Rather than national brands, look for lower priced store or generic options.

• Choose chuck roast or round roast – Grinding your own can be cheaper than pre-ground beef.

• Substitute occasionally with turkey or veggie burgers – Not for everyone but lowering beef consumption can save money.

• Focus on most economical cuts and dishes – Use ground beef for patties, meatloaf, and chilis rather than higher priced steaks or roasts.

With some shopping strategies and flexibility, you can still enjoy ground beef in your cooking while easing the impact on your grocery budget. But overall, consumers should expect elevated ground beef prices for the foreseeable future given high inflation and fundamental supply and demand dynamics. The days of $2 per pound ground beef are likely a relic of the past, unfortunately.

So now you know the average price per pound for ground beef, historical trends and context, price differences by fat content, and some ways to keep your costs in check. With this overview, you can now better understand the prices you see at the grocery store and make informed purchasing decisions for your household. Bon appétit with your next meal using ground beef!