If you've been shopping for groceries and noticed that ground beef is more expensive than ever—you're not imagining things. As of June 2025, the average price of 100% ground beef has jumped to $6.12 per pound, according to new Consumer Price Index data. That’s the highest price on record.

And experts say this trend isn’t going anywhere soon. If you're wondering why beef is so expensive in 2025, here’s everything you need to know—including how to get more value out of your beef by hiring a personal chef or learning how to cook it yourself.

Why Are Beef Prices Going Up in 2025?

The main reason? There just aren’t enough cows.

As of early 2025, the U.S. cattle herd is at its lowest level since 1951, with only 86.7 million cattle and calves. That’s a huge drop, caused by several issues that have built up over the last few years:

Severe droughts across cattle-producing regions

Rising feed and grain costs

High interest rates and inflation

Farmers reducing herd sizes to cut losses

According to agriculture experts, this leaner supply is driving up costs at every stage of the beef supply chain.

Rebuilding the Cattle Herd Takes Time

Cattle farming doesn’t bounce back overnight. Cows typically give birth to one calf per year, and it can take 2–3 years before that calf is old enough to produce beef or breed future generations.

That means we’re at the very beginning of a long rebuilding process. Prices may continue to rise before they begin to stabilize.

> “It might be at least two to three years before we see a meaningful change in beef supply,” said agricultural economist Derrell Peel.

Global Trade Issues Are Making It Worse

Besides domestic challenges, international issues are also pushing beef prices higher:

A temporary USDA beef import ban from Mexico (due to screwworm parasite outbreaks) caused supply disruptions this spring.

Ongoing trade tensions could lead to new tariffs of 25–50% on beef imports from Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and others.

These restrictions mean less imported beef and higher costs for what still enters the U.S. market.

How Much Has Beef Really Increased?

Here’s how meat prices compare year over year (June 2024 to June 2025):

Ground beef: ↑ 10.3%

Steak: ↑ 12.4%

Chicken: ↑ 3.9%

Pork: ↑ 0.5%

Behind the scenes, live cattle are now selling for $200+ per hundredweight, and calves for nearly $400, which pushes retail prices even higher.

Make the Most of the Beef You Buy

With prices this high, every cut of beef counts. So instead of risking an overcooked steak or a bland burger, why not make your beef meal an experience?

That’s where Chef007 comes in.

Hire a Personal Chef for a Steak Dinner or Private Cooking Class

Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or finally want to master steak night at home, hiring a personal chef in Colorado can turn high beef prices into a luxury worth savoring.

👨‍🍳 Chef007 is available for:

Private in-home steak dinners

Interactive cooking lessons for individuals, couples, or small groups

Ingredient sourcing and menu planning using only the best available cuts

From reverse-seared ribeyes to Tuscan grilled steaks, Chef007 brings restaurant-quality flavor and knowledge right to your kitchen.

This is perfect if you:

Want to maximize your investment in high-cost beef

Are planning a date night, birthday, or dinner party

Love learning and want to level up your cooking skills

> 💡 Bonus: Steak cooking classes make great gifts and unique group activities.

What’s Next for Ground Beef Prices?

Unfortunately, beef prices are expected to stay high through 2026 and beyond, with limited short-term relief. The USDA anticipates lower domestic production for the rest of 2025, though beef imports may increase slightly.

Until then, the best move might be to cook smarter, not cheaper—and make every steak count.

📍 Based in Colorado? Book Chef007 Today

If you're in Colorado and want to hire a personal chef for a steak dinner or cooking class, now’s a great time. Chef007 offers:

✅ Customized steak menus

✅ Hands-on lessons for all skill levels

✅ Unforgettable, stress-free meals at home

👉 Contact Chef007 here to check availability and pricing.