ATLANTA — As Americans gear up for red, white and blue celebrations, a new report from the American Farm Bureau Federation says 2024 Fourth of July cookout prices have unsurprisingly reached a new record high amid inflation.
The American Farm Bureau of Federation estimates that this year's average July 4th cookout will cost $71.22 for ten guests, which is an increase of 5% from 2023 and nearly 30% from five years ago.
"Nationally, this means we are surpassing $7 per person for the first time, with the total meal coming to $7.12 a person. Only two dishes decreased in price while everything else on your table rose, on average," the report stated.
Here's a look at this year's prices for popular BBQ fixings and how the costs compared in 2023.
Hamburger buns
First, let's start hamburger buns. According to the American Farm Bureau of Federation's report, on average, one package of hamburger buns will cost $2.41 in 2024, which is 7% more than in 2023.
Ground beef
As for the actual burger, the report stated the average price this year for 2 lbs. of ground beef comes in at $12.77, which is an increase of 11% since 2023.
Chicken breast
However, there is some good news for summer cookouts! The cost of chicken breasts is down 4% this year compared to last year. The bureau's report estimates the average 2024 cost of 2 lbs. of chicken breasts is $7.83.
Potato salad
Additionally, potato salad is 4% less expensive this year than last year. According to the bureau's report, 2 ½ pounds of potato salad will cost $3.32 in 2024.
Lemonade
But the price of lemonade isn't so sweet this year. The bureau's report states that 2 ½ quarts of lemonade will cost $4.19 this year, which is up 12% from the previous year.
Scroll below to see the full list of 2024 summer cookout prices.
Average 2024 summer cookout prices
- 2 pounds of ground beef, $12.77 (+11%)
- 2 pounds of chicken breasts, $7.83 (-4%)
- 3 pounds of pork chops, $15.49 (+8%)
- 1 pound of cheese, $3.57 (+1%)
- 1 package of hamburger buns, $2.41 (+7%)
- 2 ½ pounds of homemade potato salad, $3.32 (-4%)
- 32 ounces of pork and beans, $2.49 (+2%)
- 16 ounces of potato chips, $4.90 (+8%)
- 13-ounce package of chocolate chip cookies, $3.99 (+2%)
- ½ gallon of ice cream, $5.65 (+7%)
- 2 pints of strawberries, $4.61 (+1%)
- 2 ½ quarts of lemonade, $4.19 (+12%)
For an in-depth look at the bureau's report, click here.