Texans Will Pay More For Their 4th of July BBQ This Year

Texans across the state love to celebrate the 4th of July. From Amarillo to Laredo, El Paso to Orange, and everywhere in between, the grills will fire up. Families and friends will gather to enjoy the holiday with burgers, hot dogs, chicken, or steak.

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July 4th Backyard BBQs

Getting out in the backyard and grilling during the holiday is a big part of celebrating our independence.  However, it may be more difficult to celebrate July 4th behind the grill.  The prices of our favorite grilling meats and other items have skyrocketed.

• In 2022, the average cost of a 4th of July BBQ was $69.68.
• In 2023, the average cost of a 4th of July BBQ was $67.73.
• In 2024, we blew past 2022 and 2023 and the average cost to host your 4th of July BBQ this year will cost you $71.22.

The Meat

The cost to make hamburgers with 2 lbs of ground beef will run you close to $13.  If you make 1/4 burgers that will only feed 8 people.  The cost of ground beef could be contributed to the cattle inventory.   According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the inventory is the smallest it has been in 73 years.   Luckily, living in Texas we are closer to the cattle industry, and the cost of ground beef is somewhat cheaper in most places in the country.  In Amarillo, Texas you can go straight to your local processors and buy ground beef for about $5 per pound.

The cost of pork chops has risen 8% across the country, and pork has usually been the cheaper choice of meat.  This year the chicken may be the savior to your BBQ.  This year the prices of chicken have dropped 4%.

At least hot dogs are still cheap if you don't get the beef, you can get 3 lbs for less than $5, or one package for about $1.20.  But, the buns will cost you more this year.  Luckily, you can get the generic buns for under $2.

What About the Sides and Condiments?

The cost of your extras, like hamburger buns, cheese, and condiments have all seen price increases.   The cost of most of your side dishes has increased as well, however, potato salad is your cheaper option this year.   Unless you find a "buy this many" deal, your chips will cost you about $5 per bag.  Don't even get started on the cokes and beer.  You'll need a loan to buy more than a 12 pack on either of those items.

Unfortunately, in the world today we are paying higher prices for everything.  Celebrating with food this year will kick your bank account in the gut.

SOURCE: Record-High July 4th Cookout Costs: Inflation Hits the Backyard

Since food prices have skyrocketed that might prevent you from buying rockets this 4th of July.