Maine is famous for its delicious meaty lobsters caught fresh from the cold Atlantic waters off its rocky coast. As America’s biggest lobster producer Maine’s lobster fishery is an important part of the state’s economy and food culture. Lobster lovers everywhere relish the chance to indulge in a fresh Maine lobster dinner. But with fluctuating market prices, what can you expect to pay for these tasty crustaceans?
How Lobster Prices Are Determined in Maine
Several factors impact the current per-pound price of lobster in Maine including
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Supply and demand – Prices typically peak in summer when demand rises from tourists and drops in winter when fewer lobsters are caught.
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Weather – Storms and rough seas limit fishing trips, reducing supply and raising prices.
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Fishing regulations – Strict statewide rules cap total catches, affecting availability.
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Processing costs – Expenses for storage, transport, and distribution add to retail costs.
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Export market – Strong demand from Asia and Europe can drive U.S. prices higher.
So lobster prices in Maine ebb and flow seasonally based on a variety of influences. Understanding these dynamics helps explain pricing fluctuations.
Current Price Ranges for Maine Lobster
Lobster prices vary across Maine due to localized factors, but here are some typical per-pound retail costs:
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Soft-shell – $18-$30 (more affordable, best in early summer)
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Hard-shell – $27-$40 (premium flavor and texture)
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Jumbo – $40-$70 (impressive sizes over 3 pounds)
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Live – $35-$50 (pricier than pre-cooked)
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Meat – $25-$35 (picked from the shell)
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Claws – $15-$25 (fewer calories than tail)
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Tail – $25-$40 (most tender, elegant meat)
So you can expect to pay $25-$50 per pound retail for whole cooked lobsters. Live, meat, claws, and tails cost more due to higher processing expenses.
Buying Directly from Lobstermen
To find better prices, buy directly from local lobstermen at the docks or through community supported fishery (CSF) programs. Prices are typically 30-50% below retail when you eliminate distributor markups. Expect to pay $15-$30 per pound buying direct, but order in bulk quantities. Check regulations to ensure holders have valid commercial licenses.
Factors That Affect Lobster Size and Price
Within each category above, larger lobsters cost more per pound. Why? Because big lobsters have higher meat yields after cooking, providing more claw, tail, and body meat. Fishermen earn premium prices for jumbo lobsters over 3 pounds landing $40-$60 each. More work is also required to haul larger, heavier traps. Low supply keeps prices high.
Hard shell lobsters are another pricey variety, costing around 1.5 times more than soft shell. Their shells are filled out after molting so you get excellent meat quality with no loss during cooking and handling. Soft shells absorb more water diluting taste and texture.
When Are Lobster Prices Lowest?
For budget buys, target May and June. Prices dip when lobstermen are busiest hauling in soft-shell lobsters emerging from spring molts. Their shells are still tender making handling easier. Supply surges just before peak tourist season letting you capitalize on lower costs. Avoid July to October when rising demand pushes prices higher at $35-$60 per pound.
How to Get the Best Lobster Value
- Buy direct from the source in May/June
- Choose affordable soft-shell or firm shells
- Pick smaller 1 to 1.5 pound lobsters
- Buy live lobsters on sale and cook yourself
- Opt for whole cooked lobsters instead of meat
- Eat lobster rolls made with shell pieces
With savvy shopping, you can enjoy fabulous fresh Maine lobster without overspending. Supporting local lobstermen also benefits Maine’s iconic maritime culture and economy. Just be flexible on timing and lobster types selected to find great values on this legendary seafood treat.
Maine lobster prices fluctuate, with current market rates ranging from $18-$70+ per pound retail depending on season, size, shell hardness, and product type. Buying direct from lobstermen nets 30-50% savings off retail. While live Maine lobster is a premium product, lower-cost options exist like soft-shells in late spring and smaller whole lobsters. With flexible expectations, you can savor affordable Maine lobster even on a budget. Just be willing to eat lobster when lobstermen are catching strong and choose value-oriented products. Eat like a local!
Taylor Lobster Company is a family owned and operated provider of the highest quality Maine lobster and finest seafood, available at our market, and by local and nationwide wholesale delivery. For four generations, our family has harvested and distributed local Maine lobster. Our heritage and commitment to the lobster industry guarantees our customers a quality product and a memorable experience.
HOLIDAY HOURS: Tuesday 4/15 – Saturday 4/19 9am- 5pm Closed Easter Sunday
**REMINDER – we no longer ship for home delivery**
High lobster prices now, but businesses confident customers will come
FAQ
What is the current price for lobster in Maine?
Current Market Price – $10.99 lb. – * Market Price is based on price picked up at our local seafood shops in Ellsworth and Bangor, ME.
What time of year is lobster cheapest in Maine?
Prices will peak in early spring, but as the weather warms, lobster fishing picks up, and prices drop in May and June. May is typically one of the best months of the year to buy live lobsters. The supplies are very good as the demand from summer resorts has yet to kick in.
What is the market value of a lobster?
| Product | Unit Price | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| LIVE LOBSTER | ||
| 2-3 lb. Hard Shell Lobster | $15.49 | lb. |
| 1.25 lb. – 1.75 lb. Hard Shell Lobster | $12.49 | lb. |
| Firm Shell Lobster (any size in stock) | $8.99 | lb. |
How much is a 1 1/4 pound lobster?
| Buy More + Save | Quantity Range | Per Item Price |
|---|---|---|
| Live Lobsters 1.25 lbs. | 2 – 4 | $42.00 |
| Live Lobsters 1.25 lbs. | 5 – 12 | $39.00 |
| Live Lobsters 1.25 lbs. | 13 + | $38.00 |
How much does Maine lobster cost?
“The place is pretty relax. They have a bar side and dining area. Came with good friends here. Make sure you make a reservation for a big party otherwise, you’ll have to wait for at least 30mins. Came around early Aug and they had Maine Lobster special (I think they said Mon & Wed) for $15/lobster $25/2 & $35/3.
How much does a live lobster cost?
They have a great fresh fish store and they always have live lobster at a reasonable price (usually under $8.00). We have bought it twice and it was delicious.
How much lobster did Maine fishermen bring in last year?
Maine fishermen brought in about $464 million worth of lobster last year, a $72 million increase over the previous year’s haul, which had been the lowest in the decade. The rebound was mostly driven by higher lobster prices.