How Much Does a Pound of Green Beans Cost?

Green beans are a healthy, versatile vegetable that can be used in all kinds of delicious recipes. When shopping for fresh green beans, most recipes will specify the quantity in pounds. But how much does a pound of green beans actually cost? Let’s take a look at the average prices for different types of green beans sold by the pound.

Factors Affecting the Price of Green Beans

Several factors impact the retail price of green beans:

• Form – Fresh, frozen, or canned
• Season – In-season beans are more abundant and cheaper
• Variety – Heirloom or specialty beans cost more
• Organic – Organic green beans typically cost 20-30% more
• Location – Regional availability affects prices

Knowing these factors helps explain pricing differences you may see.

Average Price for a Pound of Fresh Green Beans

Of all forms, fresh green beans are generally the most expensive per pound Look for prices ranging from

• Regular Green Beans – $1.99 to $2.49 per pound

• Haricots Verts – $399 to $499 per pound

• Specialty Beans – Up to $6 per pound for heirloom varieties

When fresh beans are in season during the summer months prices usually drop to their lowest. Stock up on fresh beans when abundant in your area.

Average Price for a Pound of Frozen Green Beans

Frozen green beans offer more consistent pricing year-round. A 16-ounce bag of frozen cut green beans typically costs between $1.25 to $2.15.

To determine cost per pound:

• A 16 oz bag is 1 pound
• So frozen beans range from $1.25 to $2.15 per pound

Store brands save money with prices as low as $1 per pound. Compare unit prices to find the best deals.

Average Price for a Pound of Canned Green Beans

Canned green beans offer convenience at a budget-friendly price point. A 15-ounce can equals approximately 1 pound. National brands range from:

• $0.79 to $1.29 for a 15 oz can

• Equating to $0.79 to $1.29 per pound

With sale prices, stock up on canned green beans for as low as $0.50 per pound. Opt for low or reduced sodium versions when possible.

Buying Green Beans in Bulk

To maximize savings, purchase fresh green beans in bulk when in season locally. Farmers markets and farm stands offer the best bulk pricing.

For bulk frozen beans, warehouse stores like Costco sell larger 2 to 3 pound bags at around $0.99 to $1.50 per pound.

For canned, buy multi-packs of 15-ounce cans when on sale at grocery stores.

Bulk buying and freezing lets you enjoy fresh-tasting green beans year-round at a fraction of the cost.

Organic vs Regular Green Beans

Organic green beans typically cost $1 to $2 more per pound compared to regular beans. You’re paying a premium for:

• Beans grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers
• Free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
• More sustainable farming practices

If your budget allows, organic is ideal. But regular green beans are fine too if you wash them thoroughly before eating.

Saving Money on Green Beans

Here are some tips to cut costs when buying green beans:

• Check weekly ads and stock up on sale prices

• Shop in season for the lowest prices on fresh beans

• Buy store brands of frozen or canned beans

• Purchase in bulk and freeze extra fresh beans

• Opt for regular instead of organic to save about $2 per pound

• Grow your own! Homegrown green beans cost just pennies per pound

Is a Pound of Green Beans a Good Value?

Compared to many other fresh vegetables, green beans provide a good value:

• At around $2 per pound, fresh green beans cost less than broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, peppers, and more.

• They offer an affordable source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and plant-based protein.

• Extremely versatile – use in sides, mains, soups, salads, and more.

For an everyday healthy vegetable, green beans are a budget and family-friendly choice. Just adjust your buying habits to get the best pound-for-pound value.