Pork Prices in the United States from 2020 to 2025

Between 2020 and 2025, pork prices in the United States experienced notable fluctuations influenced by various economic and market factors.

2020-2024: Historical Overview

• 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted meat processing facilities, leading to reduced pork production and supply chain challenges. These disruptions caused a decline in production and subsequent price increases. 

• 2021-2023: As processing plants resumed operations and supply chains stabilized, pork production increased. However, rising feed costs and labor shortages contributed to elevated production costs, impacting prices.

• 2024: Retail pork prices saw a modest increase. In January 2024, the average price for "all other pork (excluding canned ham and luncheon slices)" was $3.70 per pound. 

2025: Current Trends and Projections

• Production and Prices: The USDA forecasts a 2.7% increase in pork production for 2025, totaling approximately 28.5 billion pounds. Despite the higher production, hog prices are expected to rise by 4%, averaging $63.25 per hundredweight (cwt) for live equivalent 51-52% lean hogs. 

• Consumer Prices: In January 2025, retail pork prices experienced a 0.7% increase from the previous month and were 2.8% higher than in January 2024. The USDA predicts a 1.2% rise in pork prices for the year, with a prediction interval ranging from -5.7% to 8.5%. 

• Per Capita Consumption: Domestic consumption is projected to grow, with per capita pork disappearance increasing from 50.4 pounds in 2024 to 51.2 pounds in 2025, indicating steady demand. 

• Exports: Total pork exports are forecasted at approximately 7.3 billion pounds in 2025, reflecting a 2.5% increase from the previous year. Key markets include Mexico, Japan, and China. 

In summary, the U.S. pork industry from 2020 to 2025 has navigated challenges such as pandemic-induced disruptions and rising production costs. Looking ahead, increased production and sustained domestic and international demand are expected to influence pork prices and market dynamics in 2025.