HOUSTON — The average retail price for beef in the United States reached $9.64 per pound in April 2026, a 13% increase from April 2025, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The rise comes as the nation enters peak summer grilling season with cattle inventories at their lowest level in 75 years.

The American Farm Bureau Federation stated that strong consumer demand and historically low cattle inventories are driving meat prices higher. Economists reported that prolonged drought and rising operating costs have forced ranchers to reduce herd sizes, contributing to the tight supply.

Beef prices continued to climb into May 2026, rising 16% compared to May 2025. Other cookout staples also saw price increases: hot dogs were up 11%, tomato prices surged 40%, and seasonings and spices rose 4% year-over-year. In contrast, boneless chicken breast averaged $4.17 per pound in April 2026, slightly lower than the same month in 2025.

Ricardo Ballin of San Jose noted the broader trend of shrinking package sizes and higher prices. "As we all know, everything's smaller and everything's more expensive," Ballin said. He added, "The bags of charcoal, you used to be able to struggle carrying them. Now you pick up two bags and I think it was like $15."

Industry data shows U.S. meat sales topped $112 billion in 2025, with more than 98% of households purchasing meat that year. Economists noted that grocery stores often increase promotional discounts around major summer holidays such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.