Pork Prices Reach Record Highs With Holiday Demand Ahead

Retail pork prices hit record levels this summer and are expected to remain high heading into the holiday season, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension experts. In July, the national average retail pork price reached $5.01 per pound, up from $4.92 a year ago. Tight supplies are driving the increase as U.S. pork production remains flat due to reduced sow numbers, despite higher productivity per litter. With no major herd expansion underway, consumers can expect elevated prices through the fall and into early next year.

Not all cuts are affected equally. Pork loins are currently a relative bargain at $1.13 per pound wholesale, compared to $1.26 last year. Consumer demand also shifts with the seasons—ribs and shoulders dominate during summer grilling, while hams rise in demand during the fall and winter holidays. Packers and retailers are already booking hams for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and bacon demand remains strong. Despite higher prices overall, pork remains a cost-competitive protein compared to beef and poultry, both of which are seeing higher retail prices as well. This puts pork in a favorable position as an affordable option for many households.

Texas is not a leading pork-producing state, but the industry still plays an important role. A large Panhandle operation supplies hogs to a major processor, while smaller producers and processors across the state cater to niche ethnic markets that prefer lighter hogs or specialty cuts. Texas also boasts a unique $50 million-a-year show pig industry, supporting thousands of youth participants in stock shows, with many animals eventually entering the food supply chain. Global trade also plays a major role in pricing. Exports continue to drive U.S. pork demand, with Mexico now the largest buyer—importing 230 million pounds in June alone. Meanwhile, exports to China have plummeted due to retaliatory tariffs, falling from nearly 38 million pounds monthly last year to just 4 million in May.

Experts say the strongest price pressure will remain on hams and bacon this holiday season. While cuts like pork loins and trimmings may ease later in the year, overall tight supplies and steady demand are expected to keep prices at or near record levels. Without significant production growth, elevated prices are likely to continue into early 2026.