Beef prices hit a new record high, and tariffs have nothing to do with it

While the latest inflation numbers show overall price increases slowing down, that's not the case in the beef aisle this summer.

Beef prices continue to climb, reaching record highs and putting pressure on consumers' wallets.

The government reports prices have increased 11% over the past year, far above the 2.7% inflation rate, with ground beef now averaging a record $6.99 a pound.

Watch shoppers and a market owner talk about the impact of record-high beef prices:

We spoke with Regina Gertsen, who was shopping at Luken Meats inside Cincinnati's Findlay Market, about how she's had to adjust her buying habits.

"I had to cut back some because the meat is very high now," Gertsen said.

Ground beef hits a record $6.99 a pound

Grocery store beef

Photo by: Niloo / Shutterstock

Grocery store beef.

By: John Matarese

Posted 2:32 PM, Aug 14, 2025

CINCINNATI — While the latest inflation numbers show overall price increases slowing down, that's not the case in the beef aisle this summer.

Beef prices continue to climb, reaching record highs and putting pressure on consumers' wallets.

The government reports prices have increased 11% over the past year, far above the 2.7% inflation rate, with ground beef now averaging a record $6.99 a pound.

Watch shoppers and a market owner talk about the impact of record-high beef prices:

We spoke with Regina Gertsen, who was shopping at Luken Meats inside Cincinnati's Findlay Market, about how she's had to adjust her buying habits.

"I had to cut back some because the meat is very high now," Gertsen said.

Bruce Quillen, hoping to cook some steaks on the grill, describes beef prices as "absolutely ridiculous."

Reasons for price hikes

So why does beef continue to rise?

While some grocery items like eggs have seen price decreases this year, beef prices continue their upward trend.