LUBBOCK, TX – Ground beef prices are rising faster than cattle values, widening the disconnect between what consumers pay and what producers receive. The national average for regular ground beef reached about $6.89 per pound in July, roughly 10% above a year earlier.
Over the same period, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, choice retail beef increased about 8%, while five-market fed steer prices rose roughly 5%. Wholesale Choice beef prices were slightly lower than last year.
Ground beef has its own supply pressures. It depends heavily on lean beef and trim from cows, fed cattle, and imports. Historically low beef cow slaughter means less domestic cow beef is available for grinding.
Consumer demand may also be contributing. As steak and roast prices remain elevated, shoppers seeking lower-cost beef options can shift toward hamburger, adding pressure to already-tight supplies.
The comparison does not measure retailers’ profits because processing, labor, transportation, and merchandising costs vary across products. But the faster rise in ground beef shows retail price pressure is reaching even basic beef purchases.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Tight ground beef supplies and strong consumer demand are pushing hamburger prices higher faster than cattle values.