Crab legs are considered a delicacy by seafood lovers across the world. Their sweet succulent meat within the hard outer shell makes for an indulgent treat. However this popular crustacean delicacy comes at a significant price point. So how much can you expect to pay for crab legs?
The cost of crab legs depends on several key factors:
Types of Crab
There are many varieties of crab, and some are more expensive than others based on size and rarity
- King Crab – The largest variety, known for huge claws and thick, tender meat. Red king crab from Alaska is the most prized type, ranging from $50-$100+ per pound. Golden king crab is slightly cheaper.
- Snow Crab – Smaller legs but still very tasty and sweet. Around $15-$30 per pound.
- Dungeness Crab – A Pacific coast favorite, with smaller meat volume. $15-$25 per pound.
- Stone Crab – Found in Florida, claws can cost up to $50 per pound.
Size Grades
For king crab and snow crab, the size grade dramatically impacts cost:
- Small – Legs under 1 lb, lower meat yield.
- Medium – 1 to 1.5 lb legs, moderate meat.
- Large/Jumbo – 1.5 lbs+, highest meat yield. Jumbo Alaskan king can exceed $100/lb.
Condition
- Whole cooked legs – Most expensive, includes claws.
- Split legs – Halved lengthwise, lower cost than whole.
- Sections – Cut into smaller segments, more affordable.
- Lump crabmeat – Picked meat only, most expensive per pound.
Where You Buy
- Online seafood markets – Offer overnight shipping, competitive pricing.
- Local fish markets – Good for same-day fresh but varies by region.
- Grocery store seafood counter – Potentially pricier with lower turnover.
- *** membership warehouse** – Decent prices when in stock but limited availability.
- Restaurant dining – Expect to pay significantly more per pound.
To give a real-world snapshot, here are current prices from popular online seafood sellers:
- Jumbo Alaskan King Crab Legs – $89.99/lb
- Large Alaskan King Crab Legs – $69.99/lb
- Alaskan Snow Crab Legs – $19.99/lb
- Dungeness Crab Legs – $17.99/lb
As you can see, king crab commands a premium price of $80-$100+ per pound for large sizes, while snow crab and Dungeness offer cheaper options below $30/lb.
Tips for Saving on Crab Legs
Here are some tips to get the best value when buying crab legs:
- Buy in bulk quantities of 5-10 lbs to save $5-10/lb.
- Look for sales, specials, and coupons from retailers.
- Consider lesser-known crab varieties like dungy crab that cost less.
- Purchase leg pieces instead of whole legs for 15-30% savings per pound.
- Opt for frozen vs. fresh for better deals – same great taste.
- Buy direct online instead of local retail for better shipping rates.
- Check for a ** membership to access lower member-only prices.
- Only buy what you need to avoid waste – legs freeze very well.
Factors Influencing Crab Leg Prices
Several factors impact the pricing of crab legs:
- Supply & Demand – Prices rise when crab is scarce due to quotas or environmental factors.
- Processing Costs – Labor-intensive catching & preparing drives up costs.
- Shipping Expenses – Remote crab harvesting regions incur high transportation fees.
- Seasonality – Prices dip during peak harvesting seasons when supply is high.
- Export Taxes & Tariffs – Added fees on imported crab like King from Russia.
- Wholesale Markups – Each middleman adds their own profit margin.
Are Premium Crab Legs Worth the Price?
At the end of the day, only you can decide if splurging for Alaskan king crab is worthwhile for special occasions or not. There’s no denying the sublime taste and tender texture of king crab that keeps fans paying top dollar. For more regular indulging, snow crab and Dungeness offer a more wallet-friendly crab fix. With proper storage and handling, frozen legs can provide premium quality at home. Now get cracking on some buttery, delicious crab legs – you deserve it!
East Coast Crab Selection
Though slightly different, our East Coast selection is just as exceptional. The primary East Coast crab we offer is the “Jonah or Rock Crab. This crab is available in various forms, including Jonah Crab Leg Meat, Jonah Crab Cocktail Claws, delicious Jonah Crab Roll Kits, Jonah Crab “Triple Scores” Claws, and we even use this delectable meat in our in-house Jonah Crab Cakes. Call us biased, but us New Englanders LOVE Jonah Crab.
Domestic Alaskan Snow Crab
The two primary species of snow crab are the Opilio crab (Chionoecetes opilio) and the Tanner crab (Chionoecetes bairdi). These species are often collectively referred to as snow crab, and they are harvested for their sweet and delicate meat, primarily in the northern Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea. Both Opilio and Tanner crabs are popular seafood choices known for their delicious flavor and versatility in various culinary dishes.
How to Cook Crab Legs, 4 Ways I Taste of Home
FAQ
What is the average price of crab legs?
Jumbo king crab legs can sell for $60 or more per pound, while smaller legs and clusters may cost less.
How many is 1 lb of crab legs?
Our King Crab Legs and Claws are smaller, but have an amazing sweetness. Fully cooked ready to heat. One pound will yield 4-5 legs.
Why are crab legs so expensive?
Supply and Demand: Crab legs, especially from species like King and Snow crabs, are highly sought after for their flavor and texture. This high demand contributes to their higher price. In contrast, crab meat can be more abundant and is often sold in larger quantities, which can drive the price down.
How much crab legs for 2 people?
For two people, you should plan to purchase at least 3 pounds of crab legs if you are serving them as the main course. This will provide a generous portion, and you might consider purchasing even more if you anticipate hearty appetites or want leftovers.
How many king crab legs per pound?
There is only 1 piece of king crab leg per pound but it is HUGE. There is a big difference between the King Crab leg and the snow crab leg. Aside from its size, it tastes better too. Sweeter.
How much do Alaskan king crab legs weigh?
Alaskan king crab legs typically weigh between a half pound and two pounds each. Keep in mind that there may be variation in size and weight, with one leg potentially being heavier than the other, but their overall density is balanced.
Where do king crab legs come from?
King crab legs are typically harvested from the frigid waters of the Bering Sea in Alaska. I typically get them at our Costco, but note that they’re not available all year long though. Due to their size and abundance of meat, king crab legs are often served as a centerpiece for special occasions or gourmet meals.