By Jamie Martin
According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the average cost of a 10-person Fourth of July cookout in 2025 is $70.92, slightly lower than last year but 19% higher than in 2019.
Key food items like ground beef, lemonade, and strawberries saw noticeable price increases. Ground beef rose to $13.33 for two pounds, while canned pork and beans jumped 8.2%, driven by labor costs and aluminum tariffs.
Strawberries now cost 8 cents more per pound, and lemonade costs 20 cents more per pitcher, reflecting higher wages in the specialty crop sector.
On the other hand, pork chops dropped by nearly 9%, now priced at $14.13 for three pounds, due to ample domestic supply. Chicken prices fell slightly, but higher egg prices raised the cost of homemade potato salad.
Egg imports have surged tenfold since January to counter supply gaps from avian influenza. Though wholesale prices dropped, the consumer cost for four eggs is up 54% over last year.
The USDA noted an 8% drop in cattle herd size since 2019, which has driven up beef prices and imports.
Regionally, the East Coast had the cheapest cookouts at $63.79, while the West paid the most at $73.50.
Despite higher food prices, farmers earn only 16 cents per dollar spent, says the National Farmers Union. “Farmers deserve a fair share of the food dollar, and consumers deserve a food system that works for everyone,” said NFU President Rob Larew.
As consumers plan for July Fourth, price remains the top concern, but many still value supporting local farmers in their holiday celebrations.
Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation
Categories: National