WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. honey production declined sharply in 2025, highlighting ongoing challenges for beekeepers even as stronger prices helped offset lower output. The latest annual report from USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service shows fewer colonies and reduced yields contributed to the drop in total production.
U.S. honey production totaled 116 million pounds in 2025, down 14 percent from the previous year. Honey-producing colonies declined 7 percent to 2.41 million, while average yield fell 7 percent to 48 pounds per colony. USDA notes colonies producing honey in multiple states are counted in each location, which can slightly understate yield at the national level, but does not affect total production.
Operationally, tighter production pushed prices significantly higher. U.S. honey prices averaged $3.05 per pound in 2025, a 27 percent increase from $2.41 in 2024. Prices reflect honey sold through cooperatives, private buyers, and retail channels, with some 2024 prices revised due to sales that occurred in 2025.
Regionally, producer honey stocks totaled 34.8 million pounds on December 15, down 15 percent from the prior year. Stocks reported by USDA exclude honey held under commodity loan programs.
Looking ahead, pollination services remain a major revenue source for beekeepers, generating $225 million in 2025, while other honey bee-related income totaled $48 million. Average prices for bee inputs reached $22 per queen, $110 per package, and $130 per nuc.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower production is tightening honey supplies across markets.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
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