Quarter Cow Buying Guide & Prices
how much is a quarter of a cow
Purchasing a quarter of a cow typically costs between $700 and $1,200 depending on the animal's size, quality, and processing fees. This investment provides approximately 80-100 pounds of various beef cuts for your freezer.
What's Included in a Quarter Cow
A quarter beef share includes a balanced selection of cuts:
- Approximately 20-25 pounds of steaks (ribeye, T-bone, sirloin)
- 15-20 pounds of roasts (chuck, rump, arm)
- 25-30 pounds of ground beef
- 5-10 pounds of stew meat and brisket
- Bones for broth and sometimes organ meats
Price Breakdown Factors
The total cost includes the live animal price per pound (hang weight) plus processing fees. Grass-fed and organic beef typically costs 20-30% more than conventional beef. Processing fees add $0.85-$1.10 per pound of hanging weight.
Buying in bulk saves significantly compared to retail prices—often 30-50% less per pound. A quarter cow requires approximately 4-5 cubic feet of freezer space. Many local farms offer quarter shares with customizable cutting instructions.
The average quarter provides enough beef for a family of four for 3-6 months. Prices vary regionally, with rural areas often offering better values than urban locations.