Meat prices in Pittsburgh have been climbing, with beef and pork up 4-5% year-over-year. But seasonal patterns still create opportunities for savings.
Beef: Grilling Season Spikes
Grilling is a summer time tradition
Beef prices follow a clear seasonal pattern driven by demand. Prices typically rise from May through July as grilling season kicks off, with steaks and ground beef seeing the biggest increases.
Best Times to Buy:
- January-March: Post-holiday lull means lower prices
- September-November: After summer grilling season ends
Avoid Buying:
- Memorial Day through July 4th (peak grilling season demand)
- Week before major holidays
Smopper Tip: Stock your freezer with ground beef and steaks in February and March. Beef freezes beautifully for 6-12 months.
Chicken: Relatively Stable with Summer Bumps
Buffalo chicken wings hit the spot!
Good news for Pittsburgh shoppers: fish and poultry prices have actually dropped in our area recently. Chicken prices remain more stable than beef throughout the year, though you'll still see slight increases during summer grilling season.
Best Times to Buy:
- Winter months (January-March)
- September-October
Smopper Tip: Whole chickens are almost always cheaper per pound than parts. Learn to break down a chicken yourself for maximum savings.
Pork: Holiday and Summer Peaks
Pork barbeque is a tasty anytime treat
Pork prices spike around major holidays and during grilling season, particularly for popular cuts like ribs and pork chops.
Best Times to Buy:
- January-February
- Late summer/early fall
Avoid Buying:
- Memorial Day through July 4th
- Thanksgiving week (ham prices spike)
- Easter week