LUBBOCK, TX – U.S. hog prices have reached their highest level in three years, bringing a welcome boost to producers. At the end of June, average barrow and gilt carcass prices rose to $113.14 per hundredweight, up from $88.79 at the same time last year.
The price jump has carried over into wholesale pork markets, where products like hams, bellies, loins, and trimmings have all seen increases. The seasonal summer slowdown in pork production is contributing to the price rise. Weekly pork production in June averaged 507.5 million pounds — down from 555.3 million pounds in January.
Hog slaughter is also down 2% over the past two months compared to last year, while total pork production is off 0.7%. Meanwhile, lower feed costs have improved profitability across the sector.
Though the sow herd continues to shrink, down to 5.979 million head — the lowest since 2016 — productivity remains high. Pigs saved per litter hit a record 11.7. USDA’s June Hogs and Pigs report indicates producers plan to increase farrowings in late 2025, suggesting production will likely rebound in the first half of 2026.