Welcome to 2026, where the “Hub City” is learning that being the center of the agricultural universe doesn’t actually mean you can afford a burger. According to the USDA, the national cattle inventory has plummeted to a 75-year low. We’re currently sitting at 86.2 million head, the thinnest the herd has been since the 1950s—back when people still thought smoking was a vitamin and Lubbock had, like, two paved roads.
Our local experts are blaming the usual West Texas suspects: a drought that’s lasted longer than a Tech football rebuilding phase and the “New World Screwworm” (which sounds like a terrible local indie band but is actually a border-closing parasite). Producers have been liquidating herds because, turns out, cows actually need to eat and drink to stay “edible.” Who knew?
Naturally, the laws of supply and demand are currently doing a victory lap over your empty wallet. Ground beef is averaging a cool $6.75 a pound. But don’t worry, Texas Tech economists say that even if cattle prices drop, your grocery bill won’t, because you “remarkably resilient” locals just won’t stop buying steak. Basically, the industry has realized you’ll pay anything for a ribeye, so why would they ever lower the price?
We’re pinning our hopes on a trade deal for Argentinian beef and some “replacement heifers,” but experts say it’s a “drop in the bucket.” We’re looking at another two years before the herd rebuilds. Until then, I hope you like the taste of “resilience” and beans, because that $7-a-pound ground chuck is the new fine dining.
Isn’t it great living in a state where cows outnumber people, yet we still have to pay airport-sushi prices for a backyard taco?
https://www.kcbd.com/2026/02/17/75-year-low-national-cattle-inventory-drops-historic-level/