We get asked the question often, "how much is a half cow going for?". Most of the time this is a general question asked by a person who is vaguely interested but not precisely sure what a "half cow" really looks like. That is why Valley Gold is here to be your guide to providing your family the best, most nutrient-dense beef available in the Nashville/Franklin/Middle Tennessee area.
If it’s your first time buying half a cow, the process can seem overwhelming.
How do you store all that meat? How do you make sure you’re getting the best quality? And, most importantly, is it worth the cost?
Here’s the good news: buying half a cow is a smart move for many reasons. Not only do you save money over time, but you’ll also get top-notch meat that’s hard to match in stores.
Let’s break it down and simplify everything for you. By the end of this guide, you’ll be confident about buying half a cow and why it’s an excellent choice for you and your family.
How Much Does a Half Cow Cost?
Price Ranges
The cost of half a cow varies based on several factors, such as how the cow was raised and processed. For pasture-raised, chemical-free beef, you can expect to pay between $2,500 and $4,000. Lower-quality beef may be less expensive, but the difference in taste and nutritional value is significant.
At Valley Gold, our beef programs provide premium quality and value, making it a worthwhile investment for your family.
What’s Included in the Cost
When purchasing half a cow, the price isn’t just for the meat itself. It often includes:
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Butchering Fees: These fees cover cutting the cow into various cuts, like steaks, roasts, and ground beef. Charges are typically per pound of hanging weight.
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Processing Fees: Additional fees for custom cuts, making ground beef or sausage, and packaging the meat for freezing.
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Special Requests: If you’d like specific cuts or preparations, there might be an extra charge.
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Delivery Fees: Some farms offer delivery services, with fees depending on the distance.
Transparency at Valley Gold
At Valley Gold, we pride ourselves on transparency. We clearly outline all costs upfront, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Our team is here to answer your questions every step of the way.
Why Buy Half a Cow from Valley Gold?
Save Money Over Time
Buying half a cow might seem like a significant expense upfront, but it’s a cost-effective choice in the long run. Bulk purchasing reduces the price per pound, saving you money compared to buying smaller quantities at grocery stores.
High-Quality Beef
Our beef is sourced from small family farms throughout our local region, ensuring it’s both flavorful and nutrient-rich. You’re getting meat raised with care, free from chemicals, mRNA vaccines, and directly supporting small family farms.
Variety of Cuts
From tender steaks to hearty roasts and versatile ground beef, buying half a cow gives you access to a wide range of cuts. This variety allows you to explore new recipes and enjoy different meals.
Support Local Farmers
Purchasing from Valley Gold means supporting local farming communities. We’re proud to offer our meat at farmers markets in Nashville, Franklin, and beyond, ensuring you get the best while uplifting local agriculture.
How Much Meat is Half a Cow?
Buying half a cow typically provides around 200 pounds of meat, including:
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Steaks: Perfect for grilling or special dinners.
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Roasts: Ideal for family meals or slow cooking.
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Ground Beef: Great for tacos, burgers, and more.
This bulk purchase not only saves money but also ensures you’re well-stocked with high-quality meat for months.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
Storage
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Freezer Space: Ensure you have adequate freezer space to store approximately 200 pounds of meat.
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Packaging: Opt for vacuum-sealed packaging to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
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Labeling: Clearly label cuts and dates to keep track of your inventory.
Meal Planning
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Plan meals around different cuts to maximize your purchase.
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Keep an inventory of what you have to avoid waste.
Choosing the Right Supplier
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Reputation: Read reviews and ask for recommendations to ensure you’re working with a trustworthy supplier.
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Local Focus: Support local farms, like Valley Gold, to get the freshest and most sustainable beef.
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Transparency: Choose a supplier who provides clear information about pricing and processes.
Why Valley Gold is the Best Choice
At Valley Gold, we’re dedicated to providing our local Nashville and Franklin, Tennessee communities with top-quality beef. Our commitment to sustainable farming and our motto, “Nature gives it, we protect it,” ensures you’re getting the very best.
Let us bring the farmers market to your doorstep or contact us directly to learn more about our offerings. Let us guide you through the process of buying half a cow, so you can enjoy premium beef while supporting local farmers.
Shop Valley Gold Half Cows now!
Each half cow is approximately 200 lbs. of beef that will need to be stored in your family's freezer (or freezers). Below is a breakdown to what cuts to expect from your half cow purchase with Valley Gold.
10-12 rib eyes
8 filets
8-10 sirloins
4 Pichana
8 New York Strips
Osso buco
Stew Meat
Short Ribs
Roast (sirloin tip, chuck)
100 lbs Burger meat
1 skirt steak
1 flank steak
1 Tri-Tip
1 brisket (12-16 pounds)
