How Much Does a Slice of Bacon Cost?

Bacon is one of the most beloved breakfast foods, loved for its smoky, salty, savory flavor But with grocery prices fluctuating, many wonder – how much does a slice of bacon cost nowadays? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll breakdown the average cost per slice of bacon, factors impacting price, price comparisons to other pork products, tips for saving money on bacon purchases, and whether buying whole slabs can save you cash

Average Price per Bacon Slice

Let’s start with the key question – what’s the current going rate for a single slice of bacon? Based on recent grocery pricing data, here is the average cost for one slice of bacon in the United States:

• $0.60 – $0.75 per slice of bacon on average

This price range accounts for differences across bacon brands, thicknesses, packaging and retailers. Of course there are always deals that allow you to stock up on bacon for less. Some key determinants of per slice bacon pricing are:

• Brand – Premium bacon brands can cost nearly double value brands.

• Thickness – Thick cut or artisanal bacon costs more per slice than thin.

• Package Size – Bulk family packs offer better per slice value than smaller quantities.

• Store – Specialty grocers charge a premium over big box discount retailers

• Coupons & Sales – Watch for promotions, especially on holiday weekends.

So while 60 to 75 cents per slice is typical, buying strategies like opting for value packs during sales can lower your bacon slice cost considerably.

Bacon Price per Pound Comparison

Another useful metric is the price per pound for packaged bacon. This table illustrates the per pound cost differences across various bacon types and thicknesses:

As shown, thin cut bacon offers the most affordable per pound pricing, while specialty thick cut bacon commands a premium price.againallows you to maximize savings per pound.

Price Compared to Other Pork Cuts

How does bacon stack up cost-wise compared to other common pork products? Here is a price per pound comparison of bacon versus other popular pork cuts:

• Bacon – $7.50
• Pork Chops – $7.00
• Pork Tenderloin – $9.00
• Ham – $5.50
• Sausage – $6.00

So bacon is moderately priced when compared to other household pork staples. While not the cheapest, its unique flavor profile makes bacon a standout breakfast meat.

Tips for Saving Money on Bacon

Here are some tips for getting high-quality bacon without overspending:

• Compare per unit prices – buy in bulk size packs.
• Opt for thinner slices to stretch your bacon buy.
• Watch for sales, coupons and seasonal promotions around holidays.
• Store brands offer big savings over premium labels.
• Check warehouse stores for bacon deals on multipacks.
• Freeze extras when buying large quantities while on sale.

With some strategic shopping, you can enjoy delicious bacon flavor while sticking to your food budget.

Does Buying Pork Belly Save Money?

Some thrifty shoppers recommend buying pork belly and slicing your own bacon to save substantially. But does DIY bacon really payoff? Here is the cost comparison:

• Pork belly per pound: $5.50
• 1 pound yields ~15 slices bacon
• Cost per slice: $0.37

Compared to store-bought bacon at $0.60 to $0.75 per slice, the savings of slicing your own from pork belly is significant. However, the process is time and labor intensive. For those willing to put in the work, whole pork belly can mean big bacon savings. But for convenience, pre-packaged is likely worth the small premium.

Current Bacon Costs and Trends

Like many goods, bacon prices have seen inflationary pressures in recent years. Here are the current costs and price trends:

• 2022 average price per lb – $7.73, up 16% vs. 2021
• 2023 forecast average price per lb – $8.25, up 6.6% year-over-year

So expect to pay 10-15% more for your bacon in 2023 as prices are predicted to keep rising. Higher feed, fuel, labor costs on farms and processing plants contribute to bacon’s increasing price tag.

Inflation means we all have to watch our budgets closely these days. But with some savvy shopping techniques, you can still enjoy bacon without breaking the bank. Nothing quite beats the smell of sizzling bacon to start your day!

What’s your best bacon buying strategy or preparation tip? Share your thoughts on maximizing both savings and delicious bacon flavor!