As Americans gathered for their Independence Day celebrations, many noticed that their holiday shopping felt a little different this year. New data released just ahead of the Fourth of July revealed which traditional items have become more expensive and which ones are actually cheaper compared to last summer.
Prices for several holiday staples have shifted noticeably, largely due to changes in supply, demand, and broader economic conditions. While some groceries are giving shoppers a bit of relief, others are still putting pressure on wallets—particularly items tied to grilling and summer cookouts.
Meat and chicken prices ease up this summer
One of the biggest surprises for shoppers this Fourth of July was the drop in prices for several types of meat. Data showed that chicken breasts were down about 4% from last year, providing some comfort for those planning cookouts. The price of ground beef also fell slightly, by about 2%. This trend was attributed to improved supply conditions and adjustments in production.
These decreases were welcome news for families looking to keep their traditional barbecues affordable. With meat and chicken at lower prices, many were able to stick to their usual holiday menus without significant extra spending. However, the story wasn’t the same across the board, as other items saw cost increases.
Here’s how else typical Fourth of July costs are different in 2025
While grill-friendly items like beef and chicken eased in price, other categories went up. Notably, chips and snacks saw a jump of about 3% compared to last year. Beer prices also climbed roughly 2%. Experts say these increases are largely tied to higher transportation and packaging costs, which continue to impact the supply chain.
For shoppers, this meant paying more for the extras that round out a holiday meal. Even with some relief on main dishes, the overall cost of throwing a Fourth of July party still required careful budgeting. As inflation remains a key concern, holiday spending habits are shifting in subtle but noticeable ways.