How Much Does 8 Ounces of Salmon Cost? A Price Breakdown

Salmon is one of the most popular and nutritious fish on the market. Salmon is very good for you because it is full of protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Many health organizations recommend eating salmon 1-2 times per week. But because there are so many kinds of salmon with different prices, you might be curious about how much an 8-ounce serving really costs.

In this article we’ll break down the price of 8 ounces of different types of salmon so you know what to expect to pay. We’ll also look at some of the factors that affect salmon pricing and provide tips for getting the best deal on salmon so you can enjoy the health and taste benefits of this superfish without breaking the bank.

Average Cost of 8 Ounces of Salmon

An 8-ounce salmon fillet can cost anywhere from $3 for farmed Atlantic salmon to $14 or more for Copper River Sockeye or other very high-end wild-caught salmon. Here is a general pricing breakdown:

Farmed Atlantic Salmon

• $3 to $8 for an 8 ounce fillet or steak

Wild Pacific Salmon

• $8 to $12 for Coho, Sockeye, Pink, Chum, Salmon

Premium Wild Salmon:

• $12 to $16 for Wild Alaskan King, Copper River, Organic

Smoked Salmon:

• $8 to $16 for an 8 ounce package of sliced smoked salmon

So on average, expect to pay about $6 to $12 for an 8 ounce portion of fresh salmon fillet, depending on factors like the type, origin, farming method and more.

What Impacts the Cost of Salmon?

Several factors account for the wide range of pricing on salmon. Here are some of the main ones:

• Farm-Raised vs Wild-Caught – Farmed salmon is more budget friendly while wild salmon commands a premium price.

• Salmon Species – King (Chinook) and Sockeye are the most expensive types of wild salmon. Pink and Chum are the most affordable.

• Where It’s Caught – Famous regions like Copper River and Scottish Salmon fetch higher prices.

• Processing – Fresh fillets cost more than frozen. Smoking adds value as well.

• Sustainability Certifications – Organic, sustainable and responsibly farmed salmon can cost more.

• Time of Year – Prices fluctuate based on supply and seasonal availability.

Tips for Getting a Good Deal on Salmon

Here are some insider tips to help you get high-quality salmon at a reasonable cost:

• Check prices at big box stores like Costco and Sam’s Club – they often have farmed salmon at just a few dollars per 8 ounce portion.

• Buy in bulk whenever possible and freeze extra portions in airtight bags for later use.

• Look for sales, coupons and markdowns at grocery stores and warehouse clubs. Stock up when deals are available.

• Buy frozen salmon to save a few dollars per pound over fresh. It retains nutrients and eats well when thawed.

• Opt for more affordable wild salmon like pink and chum instead of king or sockeye. The flavor and nutrition is still excellent.

• Consider canned salmon for an budget way to get your omega 3s. It’s inexpensive and versatile.

• Don’t assume higher cost always means better quality. Ask trusted fishmongers for good value recommendations.

Health Benefits of Eating Salmon Regularly

With its stellar nutritional profile, enjoying salmon 1-2 times per week provides some great health perks. Here are just a few of the benefits you can gain by adding this superfish to your diet on a regular basis:

• Heart Health – Salmon is rich in omega-3s EPA and DHA which support cardiovascular health by lowering triglycerides, blood pressure, inflammation and more.

• Brain Function – Omega-3 fats also promote healthy brain aging and development. They may help fend off dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

• Vision – Eating salmon provides antioxidants like astaxanthin that can reduce risk of macular degeneration and other eye diseases.

• Joint Health – The anti-inflammatory effects of salmon’s omega-3s help reduce joint pain and stiffness from arthritis.

• Better Immunity – Salmon contains key nutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and antioxidants that boost immune function.

• Healthy Skin – The omega-3s in salmon can prevent premature aging of skin and give your complexion a healthy glow.

So don’t be afraid to spend a little more on this nutritional powerhouse of a fish. An investment in salmon is an investment in your long-term health!

Is Wild Salmon Worth the Higher Price?

Wild salmon generally costs $5 to $10 more per pound than farmed Atlantic salmon. But many seafood experts argue this premium price is justified. Here are some of the key benefits you get by spending more for wild:

• Superior Nutrition – Wild salmon has a better omega-3 content and antioxidant levels compared to farmed. The natural diet makes a difference.

• Better Flavor – Connoisseurs often prefer the richer, more complex taste of wild salmon over milder farmed varieties.

• Less Contaminants – Farmed salmon may contain antibiotics, pesticides and other contaminants that wild salmon don’t.

• More Sustainable – Wild populations are better managed for sustainability compared to some salmon farms.

• Supports Fishermen – Buying wild salmon helps the livelihoods of local fishermen and communities.

While farmed salmon has improved, there are still compelling reasons to splurge on wild whenever you can. Prioritize purchasing sustainable wild salmon a few times per month if it fits in your budget.

Simple Ways to Cook 8 Ounces of Salmon

One of the best parts about salmon is how quick and easy it is to cook. Here are some foolproof ideas for cooking an 8 ounce salmon fillet or steak:

• Bake at 400F for 12-15 minutes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon
• Grill over medium high heat, 3-4 minutes per side, basting with teriyaki
• Pan sear skin-side down in an oiled skillet for 6-8 minutes
• Broil in the oven 7 minutes, then switch to low and cook until done
• Poach gently in broth, white wine or water with aromatics like dill
• Cold smoke salmon for rich flavor, then enjoy raw in poke bowls or salads

With endless options for preparing salmon simply and deliciously, you can easily enjoy this incredible fish multiple times per week and get the full range of health benefits.

So don’t let price deter you – salmon is hands down one of the best bang-for-your-buck foods out there, rich in vital nutrients that our bodies need. Spend within your budget, look for bargains, and work this oily fish into your routine to enhance your health.