The purchase price is only one part of the total cost. Transportation, loading, unloading, storage, and potential spoilage can raise the amount a livestock owner ultimately pays.
| Image credit: USA Price
A ton of hay costs an average of $190 in the United States, according to the USDA's August 2026 agricultural price report. Alfalfa averaged $206 per ton, while other hay averaged $152 per ton. These are prices received by farmers, so delivery and retail costs may be higher, USDA Agricultural Prices, August 2026.
Average Price of Hay Per Ton
The USDA's latest available national figures in its September 29, 2026, report cover August 2026. View the full report.
| Type of hay | Average price per ton (USD) |
|---|---|
| All hay | $190 |
| Alfalfa hay | $206 |
| Other hay | $152 |
Prices vary by state, forage quality, and supply. These national averages are useful benchmarks, not guaranteed prices from local sellers.
Hay Prices by State
USDA figures for August 2026 show substantial differences between states.
| State | All hay per ton | Alfalfa per ton | Other hay per ton |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $226 | $235 | $200 |
| Colorado | $231 | $235 | $180 |
| Iowa | $126 | $131 | $109 |
| Kansas | $123 | $127 | $105 |
| Kentucky | $231 | $260 | $205 |
| Texas | $144 | $230 | $120 |
| Wisconsin | $136 | $151 | $96 |
| United States | $190 | $206 | $152 |
*Source: USDA, August 2026. Prices are dollars per ton received by farmers.* See all reported states and prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price of a ton of hay in the USA?
The USDA reported an average of $190 per ton for all hay in August 2026, including $206 for alfalfa and $152 for other hay. Local and delivered prices can differ.
Is alfalfa more expensive than grass hay?
Alfalfa averaged $206 per ton nationally in the USDA's August 2026 report, compared with $152 for other hay. Actual prices depend on quality and local supply.
Does hay cost more in winter?
It can. Prices may rise when stored supplies decline or livestock owners need more feed, although weather, harvest yields, and regional demand also affect prices.
Bottom line: The USDA's August 2026 benchmark is $190 per ton for all hay, but the price you pay depends on your state, hay type, bale weight, and delivery costs. Check current local quotes before buying.
Quick Price Overview
| Hay Type | Price (USD per Ton) |
|---|---|
| All Hay (US Average) | $190 |
| Alfalfa Hay | $206 |
| Other Hay | $152 |
| California — All Hay | $226 |
| Colorado — All Hay | $231 |
| Iowa — All Hay | $126 |
| Kansas — All Hay | $123 |
| Kentucky — All Hay | $231 |
| Texas — All Hay | $144 |
| Wisconsin — All Hay | $136 |
Source: USDA Agricultural Prices, August 2026. These are prices received by farmers, not guaranteed retail or delivered prices. Local prices may vary.