How Much Per Pound Is Turkey? A Detailed Breakdown of Turkey Prices

Turkey is a staple for many holiday meals and family gatherings. But with prices fluctuating many wonder – how much should I expect to pay per pound for a turkey? In this article, we’ll break down the average cost per pound for whole turkeys so you can budget and plan accordingly.

Key Factors That Influence Turkey Prices Per Pound

Several key factors impact how much a turkey costs per pound:

• Weight – Turkey prices are usually priced per pound Larger birds over 18 lbs cost more total than smaller sizes

• Fresh vs Frozen – Fresh turkeys are more expensive per pound because they have a shorter shelf life, Frozen costs less per pound

• Organic/Free-Range vs Conventional – Specialty turkeys like organic and free-range cost more per pound than standard turkeys.

• Time of Year – Prices per pound are highest around Thanksgiving/Christmas when demand goes up.

• Where Purchased – Per pound prices can vary between grocery stores, warehouse clubs, local farms, etc.

Knowing what impacts per pound pricing helps estimate costs.

Average Turkey Prices Per Pound by Type

On average, expect to pay the following turkey prices per pound:

• Frozen Turkey: $1.15 to $1.99 per lb

• Fresh Turkey: $1.99 to $2.99 per lb

• Organic/Free-Range Turkey: $2.49 to $4.99 per lb

• Kosher Turkey: $2.99 to $3.99 per lb

• Heritage Breed Turkey: $4.99+ per lb

As expected, standard frozen turkeys are the most budget-friendly per pound. Kosher, organic, fresh, and heritage turkeys cost more per pound due to slower growth, special feeds, and labor required to raise them.

Average Turkey Prices Per Pound by Size

Larger turkeys are more economical per pound than smaller sizes. Here are typical per pound prices by turkey size:

• 10-12 lb Turkey: $1.50 to $2.50 per lb

• 12-16 lb Turkey: $1.25 to $2.25 per lb

• 16-20 lb Turkey: $1.10 to $2.10 per lb

• 20-24 lb Turkey: $0.95 to $1.95 per lb

A 16 lb frozen turkey at $1.25 per pound would cost $20 total. The same turkey at $2.25 per lb would be $36 total. Buying large can save per pound.

What is the Average Price Per Pound for a 15 lb Turkey?

The most common turkey size for holiday meals is around 15 lbs. Here’s what to expect per pound:

• Frozen: $1.20-$2.00 per lb (Avg: $1.60 per lb)

• Fresh: $1.99-$2.99 per lb (Avg: $2.49 per lb)

• Organic: $2.49-$4.99 per lb (Avg: $3.74 per lb)

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the average per pound cost for a 15 lb frozen turkey in 2022 was $1.47 per lb.

How to Get the Best Turkey Price Per Pound

To maximize savings, follow these tips:

• Shop early – Buy frozen turkeys on sale 1-2 months in advance.

• Check ads – Look for turkey coupons and promotions at grocery chains.

• Buy in bulk – Warehouse clubs offer discounts for large turkeys.

• Allow thawing time – Don’t pay extra for thawed birds.

• Check per pound cost – Focus on price per pound, not just total cost.

With the right shopping strategies, you can serve up delicious holiday turkey meals while keeping prices low on a per pound basis!

Regional Price Differences: Where Turkey Is Most/Least Expensive Per Pound

Turkey prices per pound can vary depending on where you live. According to a 2021 survey by the American Farm Bureau Federation, the most expensive state for turkey was Hawaii at $3.65 per lb. The least expensive state was Oklahoma at $1.17 per lb.

Here were the top 5 most expensive and least expensive states for turkey prices per pound:

Most Expensive States for Turkey Per Pound

1. Hawaii – $3.65 per lb
2. California – $2.99 per lb
3. Alaska – $2.76 per lb
4. Nevada – $2.01 per lb
5. Arizona – $1.89 per lb

Least Expensive States for Turkey Per Pound

1. Oklahoma – $1.17 per lb
2. Michigan – $1.20 per lb
3. Wisconsin – $1.25 per lb
4. Iowa – $1.28 per lb
5. Ohio – $1.29 per lb

Factors like shipping costs and local demand impact regional pricing. Shoppers in Hawaii and coastal states pay more per pound than those in Midwest farm states.

Get the Best Turkey Price Per Pound This Holiday Season

When shopping for your holiday turkey, keep these average per pound costs in mind for different types and sizes. Compare prices across stores. Look for sales, bulk discounts, and coupons to maximize savings. With the right intel, you can serve up the perfect turkey without overpaying per pound!