How Much Is a Cow: Prices and Factors Affecting Cattle Costs

Factors affecting cow prices and the cost of cattle

• Weight and type:

  • Feeder steers (750-800 lbs) cost about $244 per cwt
  • Fed steers average $184 per cwt
  • Steers generally bring a $13.34 per cwt premium over heifers

• Breed and color:

  • Black-hided, black-faced cattle bring the highest prices
  • Red Angus-sired lots of bred heifers and cows sold for the greatest sale price ($1,643 and $1,752/head, respectively)

• Health and vaccination status:

  • 5-way vaccinated cattle bring $14.59 per cwt more than unvaccinated cattle
  • Unknown vaccination status can result in a discount of $22.52 per cwt

• Lot size and uniformity:

  • Larger, uniform lots tend to receive price premiums
  • Lots of 21-50 head can bring $7.82 per cwt more than smaller lots

• Season and location:

  • Highest prices are typically achieved between June 1 and July 31
  • Region of origin influences prices in video auctions

Current market trends affecting how much a cow costs (as of August 2024)

• Tight supplies: Expected to push cattle prices and the cost of cattle higher year-over-year in 2024

• Feeder steer price forecast:

  • 2024: $254.96 per cwt
  • 2025: $258.50 per cwt

• Fed steer price forecast:

  • 2024: $184.01 per cwt
  • 2025: $188.50 per cwt

• Beef production: Slowing in the latter half of 2023, leading to higher cattle prices

Cost considerations for cattle buyers: Understanding how much a cow is

• Total finishing cost: Estimated at $2,570 per head for a steer in 2024, up 17% from 2023

• Feed costs: Approximately $511 per head for cattle placed in feedlots

• Breakeven point: For cattle marketed in early 2024, the breakeven was $183.54 per cwt

FAQ

How much does a typical cow cost?

A typical Angus beef cow costs around $3.75 per pound. For a 1,200-pound cow, this would amount to approximately $4,500. However, prices can vary widely depending on factors such as breed, age, and market conditions.

What factors affect cow prices?

Cow prices are influenced by several factors, including weight, breed, health status, lot size, uniformity, season, and location. Black-hided, black-faced cattle typically bring the highest prices, while larger, uniform lots and vaccinated cattle also command price premiums.

How much do feeder steers and fed steers cost?

As of August 2024, feeder steers (750-800 lbs) cost around $244 per hundredweight (cwt), while fed steers average about $184 per cwt. These prices are expected to increase in the coming years due to tight supplies and market trends.

What is the total cost of finishing cattle?

The total finishing cost for a steer in 2024 is estimated at $2,570 per head, which is a 17% increase from 2023. This cost includes feed expenses, which are approximately $511 per head for cattle placed in feedlots.

How do seasonal trends affect the cost of cattle?

Seasonal trends play a significant role in cattle prices. The highest prices are typically achieved between June 1 and July 31. Additionally, the region of origin influences prices in video auctions, and market forecasts predict higher cattle prices year-over-year in 2024 due to tight supplies.