A bushel of potatoes typically weighs 60 pounds and costs $10-$30, depending on variety, season, and market conditions.
A bushel of potatoes equals roughly 60 lbs (27 kg) and holds about 100 medium-sized potatoes. Prices fluctuate based on type (e.g., russet vs. red), organic status, and supply. Bulk purchases or wholesale markets often offer lower per-bushel costs than retail.
Factors Affecting Potato Bushel Prices
- Variety: Russets ($10-$20) are often cheaper than specialty types like fingerlings ($20-$30).
- Organic vs. Conventional: Organic bushels cost 30-50% more due to farming practices.
- Season: Prices peak in early spring (limited supply) and dip in fall (harvest season).
- Purchase Volume: Buying 5+ bushels may reduce cost per bushel by 10-20%.
- Location: Regions with high potato production tend to have lower prices.
Price Comparison by Purchase Method
| Purchase Method | Price per Bushel | Typical Quantity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farmers Market | $18-$30 | 1-2 bushels | Fresh, local, or organic varieties |
| Wholesale Club | $10-$18 | 5+ bushels | Bulk buyers, restaurants, or storage |
| Online Bulk Retailer | $15-$25 | 1-10 bushels | Home delivery, specialty types |
| Local Farm (Direct) | $12-$20 | 10+ bushels | Large orders, lowest per-pound cost |
How Many Potatoes Are in a Bushel?
- Small potatoes (1-2" diameter): ~120-150
- Medium potatoes (2-3" diameter): ~80-100
- Large potatoes (3-4" diameter): ~50-70
Cost-Effective Ways to Buy Potatoes in Bulk
- Split a bulk order with neighbors or friends to meet wholesale minimums.
- Buy "seconds" (cosmetically imperfect potatoes) for 20-40% less.
- Purchase in late fall when harvests are abundant and prices drop.
- Store properly in a cool, dark place (50-60°F) to extend shelf life to 2-3 months.
- Check local farming co-ops for discounted "ugly" or surplus bushels.
Bushel vs. Other Potato Measurements
| Unit | Weight | Approx. Potatoes (Medium) | Relative Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bushel | 60 lbs (27 kg) | 80-100 | $10-$30 |
| 1 peck | 15 lbs (7 kg) | 20-25 | $3-$8 |
| 10-lb bag | 10 lbs (4.5 kg) | 15-20 | $4-$10 |
| 5-lb bag | 5 lbs (2.3 kg) | 8-10 | $2-$5 |