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What you can expect when your beef is processed.
When an 1,200lb animal is taken in for processing, we can expect an average yield of 60%, although that can range from 57% – 61%, and a 720lb hanging carcass weight (after the head, hide, and leg bones have been removed). The percentage of cuts yielded from a whole beef averages 48% of hanging carcass; the cut yield can range from 45-50%. For a 1200lb animal with a hanging carcass weight of 720lbs, you will receive an average of 345lbs of beef. Our steers average weight range is 1,000-1,200lbs. Most of our beef is processed in February/ March time frame depending on our finishing schedule.
You may have noticed that beef prices are at record highs. Due to overall beef demand, this year's prices and weights in the beef market are higher than those of previous years. For custom quality beef, estimated prices may be $7.00-$8.00 per pound plus cut and wrap. Hanging weights typically range from 300-400 pounds, resulting in a price range of $2,100 - $2,800 not including cut and wrap fees.
What the beef market is telling us.
Retail ground beef prices rose dramatically from 2024 to 2025, reaching all-time highs due to shrinking cattle supplies and steady consumer demand. In July 2025, the average price of ground beef peaked at $6.34. per pound, an 11.3% increase over the $5.62 average in July 2024. As for steak prices in July 2024, the average was $10.86, compared to August 2025, when prices climbed further to $12.22, marking a 16.6% jump.
We understand this may affect how you purchase your beef, so we want to be up front about how the beef economy is doing.
How much will your 1/2 beef cost?
The prices below are estimates based on average-sized beef. Your cost may vary based on the weight of your animal. Due to market fluctuations and processing fees, our prices are subject to change without notice.
Average Beef Costs
Half Beef: $2,100 - $2,800