How Much Per Pound Does Lobster Cost in 2024? A Detailed Breakdown

Lobster is one of the most prized seafood delicacies across the globe. Its sweet, tender meat is loved by many and it is a feature of luxury dining. But being a premium product, lobster does not come cheap. So how much does lobster cost per pound in 2024?

In this article we provide a detailed breakdown of lobster prices per pound in the current year. We look at how prices differ based on lobster type, size form (whole vs meat vs tails vs claws), and seasonality throughout the year. Read on to find out everything you need to know about lobster prices and how to get the best value lobsters.

Overview of Lobster Prices Per Pound in 2024

Lobster prices fluctuate throughout the year due to seasonal supply and demand factors. But generally, the range is:

• Whole live lobster: $16.99 – $38.49 per lb
• Lobster meat: $55 – $96.49 per lb
• Lobster tails: $39.99 – $45 per lb
• Lobster claws: $39.5 – $70 per lb

The most expensive type of lobster pound-for-pound is the Pearl lobster from Indonesia, which can retail for over $99 per kg or $45 per lb Maine lobster, California spiny lobster, and Florida spiny lobster are more common varieties in the US market

Prices by Type of Lobster

There are a few major varieties of lobster commercially fished and sold in the US

Maine Lobster

• Lowest Price: $22.39 per lb
• Highest Price: $38.49 per lb

Maine lobster has a sweet, tender meat and commands premium pricing. It is considered one of the best tasting lobsters. Due to high demand, expect to pay at least $22.39 per lb, going up to $38.49 per lb for large, high-quality specimens.

California Spiny Lobster

• Lowest Price: $26 per lb
• Highest Price: $30 per lb

California spiny lobster has a more nutty, firmer texture than Maine lobster. It is seasonally available from October to March. Out of season, prices can be higher. Expect to pay $26 – $30 per lb for fresh California spiny lobster.

Florida Spiny Lobster

• Lowest Price: $16.99 per lb
• Highest Price: $19.99 per lb

Florida spiny lobster is very similar in taste to California spiny, with a slightly less nutty flavor. It has a long 8 month season so commands lower pricing of $16.99 – $19.99 per lb.

Prices by Product Type

Lobster can be purchased whole live, as raw meat, as tails, or as claws:

Whole Live Lobster

• Price Range: $16.99 – $38.49 per lb

Whole live lobster includes the entire lobster in its shell. It is generally the most affordable way to buy lobster. Prices range from $16.99 for small Florida spiny lobsters up to $38.49 for premium large Maine lobsters.

Lobster Meat

• Price Range: $55 – $96.49 per lb

Lobster meat usually comes from the tail and claws, with the shell removed. Expect to pay a premium for the convenience of processed meat ready to cook. Prices range from $55 – $96.49 per lb.

Lobster Tails

• Price Range: $39.99 – $45 per lb

Lobster tails are the prized tail meat sold separately. You can expect to pay around $39.99 – $45 per lb for a lobster tail. Florida spiny tails are slightly cheaper while Maine tails command the highest prices.

Lobster Claws

• Price Range: $39.5 – $70 per lb

The succulent claw meat is sold separately as lobster claws. Due to small size, expect to pay $39.5 – $70 per lb. Larger claws are at the premium end while cheaper claws may be quite small.

Seasonal Lobster Prices

Lobster prices fluctuate throughout the year with supply and demand. Here is a breakdown of prices by season:

• Winter (December – February): High – $30+ per lb
• Spring (March – May): Low – $20 – $25 per lb
• Summer (June – August): Moderate – $25 – $28 per lb
• Fall (September – November): Moderate – $25 – $30 per lb

May to early June offers the best prices when supplies are high from peak harvests. Prices are highest in winter when bad weather limits lobster fishing.

Getting the Best Deal on Lobsters

Here are some tips to get the most value when buying lobster:

• Buy in season – Prices are lower when lobster is abundant
• Buy from lobster docks – You’ll pay less buying directly from the source
• Choose whole lobsters – Much cheaper than buying processed meat or tails
• Buy larger lobsters – Big lobsters can offer better meat value per pound
• Order in bulk – You can save per pound when buying multiple lobsters

Buying direct from lobster fishermen allows you to get lobsters for as low as $3-$5 per pound. Retail prices at restaurants or markets are much higher after processing, storage, transportation and labor costs.

While whole live lobster offers the best bang for your buck, lobster meat and tails provide convenience since the hard work of extracting the meat is already done for you. It comes down to your priorities and budget.

Is Lobster Worth the Price in 2024?

Lobsters are not cheap. But for many seafood lovers, the sweet flavor and tender texture is worth the splurge. Lobster is a delicacy and luxury food that makes a meal feel special and indulgent.

Prices in 2024 are on par with historic norms, with seasonal fluctuations. While lobsters may seem expensive, they are still an affordable luxury for special occasions and a unique delicacy not found in other seafood.

For the best value, buy in season, choose whole lobsters, and purchase directly from lobster docks. With some strategic shopping, you can land delicious lobsters for under $20 per pound. Keep an eye out for lobster deals in the late spring and early summer.

So if you have a hankering for lobster, go ahead and treat yourself in 2024. Just be ready to shell out $25 per pound on average. With some savvy buying, lobster can still be a great meal option for your next special dinner or event.