How Much Does a Bushel of Oysters Cost in Florida?

Oysters are one of the most popular seafood items in Florida. With miles of coastline and abundant oyster beds, Florida provides some of the best oysters in the world. But if you’re looking to buy oysters in bulk, you may be wondering – how much does a bushel of oysters cost in Florida? In this article, we’ll break down oyster prices per bushel and other common units like dozen and pound. We’ll also explore what impacts oyster prices in the state.

Oyster Pricing Per Bushel in Florida

A bushel of oysters contains approximately 8 gallons or about 150 oysters. Here are some typical per bushel prices in Florida:

• Unshucked Oysters – $60 to $100 per bushel Unshucked means the oyster is sold in the shell This is the most affordable option.

• Shucked Oysters – $120 to $200 per bushel. Shucked oysters have been removed from the shell which makes them more expensive.

• Specialty Oysters – Up to $300 per bushel for premium varieties like Apalachicola.

So on average, expect to pay around $100 to $150 per bushel for a standard bag of oysters in Florida. The range depends on whether they are shucked or unshucked, and if it’s a specialty variety.

Oyster Prices Per Dozen and Pound

Some other common ways oysters are sold besides bushel include

• Dozen – A dozen oysters contains 12 oysters. Plan on spending $8 to $15 for a dozen.

• Pound – There are roughly 8-12 oysters per pound. Oysters can cost $6 to $12 per pound.

So a bushel equates to about 12-13 dozen oysters or 12-15 pounds. Buying in bulk by the bushel gives you the best price per oyster.

What Impacts Oyster Prices in Florida?

Several factors determine the retail cost of oysters in Florida:

• Type of Oyster – Specific varieties like Apalachicola and Gulf oysters command higher prices than generic oysters.

• Condition – Premium quality, fresh oysters are more expensive than older oysters.

• Shucked vs Unshucked – Shucking oysters is labor-intensive so shucked oysters cost more than unshucked.

• Supply and Demand – Prices increase when oyster supply is low and demand is high.

• Season – Oyster prices are typically higher in colder months when supply is lower.

• Location – Oysters sold directly at the dock are cheaper than buying from retailers or restaurants.

Where to Buy Bushels of Oysters in Florida

You can buy bushels of oysters in Florida at:

• Seafood markets and docks – The best prices are buying direct from local fishermen.

• Grocery stores – Many larger chains sell oysters in bushel bags during peak seasons.

• Online seafood retailers – Order bushels of oysters for delivery from sites like text Hull’s Seafood Markettext.

• Oyster festivals – Events like the Florida Seafood Festival often have vendors selling in bulk.

No matter where you buy or what type of oyster you choose, buying Florida oysters by the bushel is a great way to enjoy fresh, local seafood. Expect to pay on average $100 to $150 per bushel based on the oyster variety, condition, and whether they are shucked or unshucked. With proper storage and consumption within 7-10 days, bushels provide an affordable way to indulge in these briny bivalves.