Jackfruit Prices in the United States from 2020 to 2025

Jackfruit prices in the United States from 2020 to 2025 have varied due to factors like import costs, transportation, seasonal availability, and growing demand for plant-based foods. Data is sparse for some years, but here’s what’s known based on available information:

• 2020: Limited data exists, but jackfruit was considered a niche fruit, primarily imported from Mexico or Southeast Asia. Retail prices for fresh jackfruit typically ranged from $2 to $5 per pound in specialty markets, with whole fruits (5-15 lbs) costing $10 to $50 depending on size and quality. Canned or frozen jackfruit was cheaper, around $1-2 per pound.

• 2021: Prices remained similar, with fresh jackfruit averaging $2.50 to $6 per pound in urban areas with higher demand. Online retailers like Amazon and specialty stores sold whole jackfruits (5-18 lbs) for $20 to $100, reflecting high shipping costs and variable quality. Demand began rising as vegan and plant-based diets gained popularity.

• 2022: Import prices stabilized somewhat, but transportation costs pushed retail prices up slightly. Wholesale prices for fresh jackfruit were reported around $0.28 to $0.40 per pound in peak season (May-June), though retail stayed higher at $3 to $7 per pound. Quality varied, impacting edible yield and perceived cost.

• 2023: Import prices ranged from $1.18 per kg ($0.54 per lb) early in the year, reflecting tighter supply. Retail prices for fresh jackfruit hovered between $3.50 and $8 per pound, with whole fruits (5-15 lbs) costing $25 to $120. Online sellers noted issues with ripeness, affecting customer satisfaction and perceived value.

• 2024: Import prices jumped significantly, ranging from $4.87 to $7.04 per kg ($2.21 to $3.20 per lb), due to increased demand and supply chain challenges. Wholesale prices hit around $26.50 per 36-40 lb carton in February. Retail prices averaged $4 to $10 per pound, with some markets charging premiums for organic or locally sourced options.

• 2025: Wholesale prices in March showed regional variation—$0.79 to $2.06 per kg ($0.36 to $0.94 per lb) for Mexican imports in cities like Baltimore, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Retail prices likely range from $4 to $12 per pound, driven by high import costs and consumer willingness to pay for sustainable meat alternatives. A 36-40 lb carton wholesale was around $0.95 per lb in Detroit.

Conclusion

Prices fluctuate based on quality, ripeness, and market saturation. Jackfruit’s large size and short shelf life add to costs, as does its status as an exotic import. Growing interest in jackfruit as a meat substitute has driven demand, but limited domestic production keeps prices elevated.