Crab Prices Explained

In 2025, crab prices vary by species, form, and market. In the U.S., wholesale prices range from USD 4.98 to 21.14 per pound (USD 10.99 to 46.60 per kilogram). Retail prices range from USD 7.12 to 30.19 per pound, depending on the crab type and form (e.g., live, cooked, lump meat).

For example, King Crab legs retail between USD 30 and 60 per pound due to their high demand and limited supply.

In specific U.S. markets, Northwest Dungeness crab may sell for around USD 5.00 per pound at the dock during tight seasons.

Overall, consumer prices range from USD 5 to 60 per pound, with most standard products like cooked clusters or frozen meat falling between USD 7 and 25 per pound.

Why are Crab Prices Fluctuating?

1. Seasonal Catch and Supply Constraints

Delays in fishery openings, such as those in the Dungeness season, limit daily catches and increase dockside prices.

2. Species Variation and Rarity

King Crab is rarer and harder to catch, which raises its market price compared to more common species.

3. Tariffs and Trade Disruptions

Import costs fluctuate due to tariffs and global trade changes, sometimes leading to higher prices for restaurants and retailers.

4. Consumer Demand and Luxury Positioning

Crab is viewed as a delicacy. Growing demand for premium crab options, like soft-shell or sashimi-grade, increases prices.

Which Variables Impact the Price of Crab?

• Species & Rarity (e.g., King, Snow, Dungeness)
• Seasonal Harvest Volume & Timing
• Tariffs, Trade Policy & Supply Chain Costs
• Consumer Demand in Foodservice vs. Retail
• Form & Processing Level (live, cooked, meat extraction)

Where Does Crab Come From?

Crabs are decapod crustaceans found worldwide. Around 1.5 million tonnes are caught or farmed each year. The Asian blue crab (Portunus trituberculatus) accounts for over 300,000 tonnes, mostly harvested off China’s coast.

Harvesting methods include wild capture and aquaculture, depending on the region and species.

What are the Uses of Crab?

1. Fine Dining and Seafood Lounges – Crab is featured in deluxe dishes like crab legs, soft-shell preparations, and sashimi-grade offerings.

2. Processed Products – Crab is commonly found in crab cakes, ready-to-eat items, and canned crab meat.

3. Quick-Service Outlets and Meal Kits – Crab is increasingly used in pre-packaged meals, meal delivery services, and frozen entrees.

What is the Future Price of Crab?

Crab prices are expected to rise modestly in the coming years, following overall market growth and input costs.

Global market forecasts predict steady growth for the crab market through 2030:

• Mordor Intelligence estimates the market will grow from USD 13.04 billion in 2025 to USD 16.17 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.4%.
• Technavio projects an increase of USD 6.07 billion between 2025 and 2029, with a CAGR of 5.8%, driven by higher nutritional demand and automation.
• 360iResearch expects the market will rise from USD 11.45 billion in 2025 to USD 14.07 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.17%.

As a result, annual price increases are expected to range from 3% to 6%, particularly for premium species like King and Snow crab.

• Compact crab products, such as frozen lump meat or canned crab, may rise in price from USD 7 to 15 per pound today to USD 8 to 17 per pound in high-demand years.
• Fresh, live, or specialty crabs may rise in price from USD 25 to 60 per pound today to USD 30 to 70 per pound or higher by 2030 if supply is limited or if demand from luxury dining increases.