July Fourth Cookout Costs Remain Near Record Highs

Cookout Prices Dip Slightly From 2024 But Stay 19 Percent Higher Than 2019

The average cost of a traditional Fourth of July cookout for 10 people is $70.92 this year, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. While 30 cents lower than last year, it remains the second-highest total since the survey began in 2013 and 19% more expensive than in 2019.

The menu includes items like cheeseburgers, chicken breasts, pork chops, lemonade, potato salad, strawberries, and cookies. Beef saw the biggest jump, costing nearly $20 to make 10 cheeseburgers due to a smaller U.S. cattle herd and increased imports.

Canned pork and beans rose 8.2%, the highest increase among the items surveyed, driven by high aluminum tariffs and labor expenses. Homemade lemonade and potato salad are also more expensive, with strawberries and eggs adding to the rise due to labor costs and avian flu disruptions.

Chicken and pork chops offered some relief. Pork chop prices dropped nearly 9% due to an ample domestic supply, and chicken prices also declined slightly.

Cookout costs vary by region. East Coast gatherings are cheapest at $63.79, while the West averages $73.50. The Midwest and South fall in between.

Despite these price increases, farmers see little gain. On average, they receive only 16 cents of every dollar spent on food. “Family farmers and ranchers are working harder than ever, yet taking home less,” said Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union.

Consumers remain sensitive to price, especially in states like Iowa, where shoppers are focused on affordability. The report emphasizes how inflation and weather continue to challenge food producers and consumers alike, even during holiday celebrations.