A bushel of tomatoes typically costs between $15 and $40, depending on variety, quality, and market conditions.
A bushel of tomatoes weighs approximately 53 pounds and contains 8 to 10 dozen medium-sized tomatoes. The price varies significantly based on whether you're buying fresh market tomatoes, processing tomatoes, or heirloom varieties. Fresh market tomatoes command higher prices than those destined for processing, while organic and specialty varieties can cost substantially more than conventional options.
Price Comparison by Tomato Type
| Tomato Type | Price Range per Bushel | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Market | $25 - $40 | Retail, farmers markets |
| Processing | $15 - $25 | Canners, sauce makers |
| Heirloom | $35 - $60 | Specialty markets |
Factors Affecting Tomato Bushel Prices
- Seasonality: Peak summer harvest brings lower prices, while off-season costs increase
- Geographic location: Prices vary by region due to transportation costs and local supply
- Quality grade: 1 grade commands premium prices over 2 or processing grade
- Organic certification: Organic tomatoes typically cost 20-30% more than conventional
Cost Breakdown per Pound
Based on bushel prices, tomatoes cost approximately $0.28 to $0.75 per pound. Processing tomatoes fall on the lower end at $0.28-$0.47 per pound, while fresh market varieties range from $0.47-$0.75 per pound. Heirloom varieties can exceed $1.13 per pound when calculated from bushel pricing.