US Honey Production Drops as Prices Rise

US Honey Production Drops as Prices Rise
Mar 17, 2025
By Farms.com

Honey Prices Surge Despite Production Decline

In 2024, US honey production totaled 134 million pounds, reflecting a 4% decline from the previous year. The number of honey-producing colonies rose by 3% to 2.60 million, but the average yield per colony decreased by 6% to 51.7 pounds. 

By December 15, 2024, producer honey stocks stood at 43.4 million pounds, a 2% decrease from the previous year. Lower yields contributed to this decline, although rising prices helped stabilize beekeeper revenues. 

Honey prices increased by 5%, reaching an average of $2.69 per pound. Prices varied by color and marketing channel, with retail sales fetching higher rates. The increase in price helped offset reduced production. 

Pollination income dropped to $226 million, an 11% decline from 2023, affecting beekeepers relying on pollination services. Other income, including sales of honey bee queens, beeswax, and propolis, also declined by 11%, totaling $51.3 million. The price of a queen bee averaged $18, while packages and nucs cost $89 and $109, respectively. 

The USDA report highlights the shifting dynamics in the US honey industry. While colony numbers increased, lower yields remain a challenge. However, the rise in honey prices offers a positive outlook for beekeepers managing production costs and market demand. 

Photo Credit: pexels-pixabay 

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