By Jamie Martin
Hog prices in the United States have climbed to their highest level in three years, bringing a welcome return of profits to pork producers.
According to recent reports, national average barrow and gilt carcass prices reached $113.14 per cwt by the end of June 2025. This is the highest level since September 2022, well above last year’s $88.79 per cwt.
The rise in hog prices has also driven up wholesale pork prices. Hams, bellies, loins, ribs, and sausage trimmings have all seen price increases. These price shifts are partly due to seasonal production declines during summer.
In fact, barrow and gilt slaughter has dropped by 2% compared to last year, and total pork production is down 0.7% over the past eight weeks.
Weekly pork production averaged 507.5 million pounds in June, compared to 555.3 million pounds in January. While this decline is seasonal and expected, it helps tighten supply and support higher prices.
The price boost, along with reduced feed costs, has brought profits back to producers who had been facing financial challenges since 2022.
The sow herd has continued to decline, reaching 5.979 million head as of June 1—the lowest since 2016. However, productivity is increasing, with a record average of 11.7 pigs per litter over the past six months.
It appears the improved market conditions are beginning to influence future production. The USDA’s June Hogs and Pigs report shows that producers plan to increase sow farrowings in late 2025.
As one analyst notes, “The price increase, especially when combined with lower feed costs, has brought some much-needed profits to the production side of the industry.”
This trend could lead to greater pork supply in the first half of 2026 as more pigs per litter and increased sow numbers come into play.
Photo Credit: istock-srdjan-stepic
Categories: National