The price of a head of cabbage in the United States typically varies by size, variety (green, red, Savoy), and season, with local market conditions also influencing cost. Buyers should expect a simple per-head price or a per-pound rate when available. Cost considerations include seasonality, quality, and regional supply chains.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of green cabbage | $0.90 | $1.40 | $2.20 | Typically 2–3 lb in supermarkets |
| Head of red cabbage | $1.20 | $1.80 | $2.80 | Often 2–3 lb; premium color |
| Savoy cabbage | $1.50 | $2.10 | $3.50 | Texture like lettuce; slightly pricier |
| Organic cabbage | $2.50 | $3.50 | $4.50 | Premium price tier |
| Delivery (optional) | $0 | $6 | $15 | Depends on distance and service |
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost ranges reflect per-head prices and per-pound rates across common varieties. For a standard grocery purchase, buyers usually see a price per head between $1 and $2 in non-organic cases, with organic options rising to $3–$4. In larger urban markets or specialty stores, prices may be higher. The main drivers are variety, size, season, and store format.
Cost Breakdown
| Cost Component | Typical Range | Notes | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Produce (Materials) | $0.90–$4.50 | Green, red, Savoy, organic; weight-equivalent may be used | Region, season, grade |
| Packaging | $0.05–$0.25 | Plastic wrap or bag included at checkout | Retail format |
| Delivery/Delivery Fees | $0–$15 | In-store pickup vs. local delivery | Distance, service level |
| Taxes | 0%–8% | State and local tax varies by jurisdiction | Location-based |
| Storage/Handling | $0–$0.50 | Facility or in-store handling | Not typically itemized at retail |
| Contingency | $0–$0.20 | Small buffer for price spikes | Market volatility |
Assumptions: region, variety, season, and store format.
Factors That Affect Price
Seasonality, variety, and location are the main price drivers for cabbage purchases. Green cabbage tends to be cheaper than red or Savoy, while organic labels carry a premium. Prices are typically lower during peak harvest months in late spring through fall, with higher costs in winter or out-of-season periods when imports or greenhouse production dominate. Store format also matters: warehouse clubs and discount grocers may offer lower per-head prices than upscale markets.
Ways To Save
Buy in bulk when available or choose store-brand options to reduce cost per head. If proximity allows, visiting local farmers markets in late morning can yield clearer discounts as sellers clear stock. Consider comparing per-pound pricing across retailers, as some stores price by weight while others price by head. Basic meal planning can also reduce waste and maximize value when purchasing cabbage for multiple meals.
Regional Price Differences
AHEAD OF REGIONAL VARIATION, cabbage costs can differ by market density and agricultural output. Urban areas typically show higher price points than rural markets, with suburban stores sitting in between. In the Northeast, higher labor and distribution costs can raise prices by about 5–12% versus the national average. The Midwest benefits from strong local production, often offering prices near the national average or slightly below. The West Coast may see a mix of imported and domestic cabbage, resulting in 0–10% variance above or below the national median depending on season and supply chains.
Seasonality & Price Trends
Prices are typically lowest during peak harvest months and can spike during shortages. Spring and early summer crops push per-head costs down, while late fall and winter imports may lift prices when local supply tightens. Per-pound rates often mirror this pattern, with occasional temporary spikes tied to weather events or transportation disruptions. For organic varieties, the seasonal delta is amplified due to limited growing windows.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate common purchasing contexts and associated costs.
Basic Scenario — Small grocery store, green cabbage, conventional, 1 head. Specs: 2–3 lb, store-brand packaging, standard shelf pricing.
Labor hours: 0.01; data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> • Totals: $0.90–$1.40 per head; Delivery/Taxes: minimal in-store purchase.
Mid-Range Scenario — Local market, red cabbage, conventional, 2 heads. Specs: 2–3 lb each, standard bags, small display.
Labor: 0.02–0.04 hours; Totals: $1.50–$2.20 per head; Delivery: $0–$6 depending on pickup vs. delivery; Taxes: local rate applies.
Premium Scenario — Upscale grocer, Savoy and organic options, 3 heads. Specs: 2.5–3.5 lb each, premium packaging, seasonal display.
Labor: 0.05–0.08 hours; Totals: $2.50–$4.50 per head; Delivery: $8–$15; Taxes: applicable; Organic premium adds $1.00–$1.50 per head beyond conventional.
Cost By Region
Across the U.S., cabbage price dispersion reflects supply lines and transportation costs. In coastal markets, expect higher retail marks due to longer distribution chains. The Southeast often benefits from robust local harvests, sometimes offering the lowest average prices. The Mountain and Pacific regions may experience broader swings tied to freight and seasonal imports. Expect a regional delta of roughly ±5–12% versus the national average depending on the month and store type.
Notes on Hidden & Additional Costs
While cabbage itself is typically low-cost, a few extras can affect the total bill. Bag fees, special packaging, and impulse display can add small increments. Delivery fees, if chosen, may push the total beyond the per-head estimate, especially for single-head orders. Taxes vary by state and locality, and some stores apply local environmental or sustainability surcharges intermittently.