Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a special dinner, knowing the price of salmon per fillet at grocery stores is essential. This list covers the most common types of salmon fillets you’ll find, their average prices in 2024, and what makes each option worth considering. It’s designed for shoppers who want to balance quality, sustainability, and budget when buying salmon.
1. Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillet
Atlantic salmon is the most widely farmed salmon in grocery stores across the U.S. In 2024, fresh Atlantic salmon fillets typically cost between $9 and $13 per pound, translating to roughly $6 to $9 per average 6-ounce fillet. This type is popular due to its mild flavor, tender texture, and consistent availability year-round. While farmed Atlantic salmon is more affordable, it’s important to look for certifications like ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) to ensure responsible farming practices.
2. Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Fillet
Wild Alaskan sockeye salmon is prized for its vibrant red flesh and rich, full flavor. Prices for sockeye fillets in grocery stores hover around $16 to $22 per pound, so a typical 6-ounce fillet costs about $6 to $8. Sockeye is a wild-caught species with a firmer texture and higher omega-3 content than many farmed options. Its seasonal availability from June to September can affect prices and freshness.
3. Wild Alaskan Coho Salmon Fillet
Coho salmon, also known as silver salmon, is a mid-range wild species in both price and flavor. Expect to pay $14 to $18 per pound for coho fillets, which makes a 6-ounce fillet around $5 to $7. Coho has a milder taste than sockeye but is leaner and usually less expensive. It’s typically available fresh from mid-summer through fall and is favored for grilling due to its firm texture.
4. Farmed King (Chinook) Salmon Fillet
King salmon is the largest and often considered the most flavorful of the salmon species. Farmed king salmon fillets retail around $20 to $26 per pound, so a single fillet can cost $8 to $10 or more. This premium price reflects its buttery texture and rich fat content. Because wild king salmon is rarer and more expensive, farmed king salmon is a popular alternative for those seeking luxury at a slightly lower price.
5. Wild Pink Salmon Fillet
Pink salmon is the most abundant wild salmon species and generally the most affordable, with fillets priced around $8 to $12 per pound. This translates to about $4 to $6 per average fillet. Pink salmon has a lighter pink color and a milder flavor, making it a good choice for recipes that require flaked or canned salmon as well. It’s widely available fresh or frozen and is sustainable due to its large wild population.
6. Frozen Wild Alaskan Salmon Fillets
Frozen wild Alaskan salmon fillets, whether sockeye, coho, or pink, typically cost less than fresh, averaging $12 to $18 per pound. This often reduces the price per fillet to $4 to $7. Freezing preserves nutritional value and freshness if done properly, making frozen fillets a convenient and budget-friendly option. Look for vacuum-sealed packaging to ensure quality and prevent freezer burn.
7. Organic Farmed Salmon Fillet
Organic farmed salmon, certified by bodies such as the USDA Organic program or EU Organic standards, can cost between $18 and $25 per pound. A 6-ounce fillet may run $7 to $9. These salmon are raised without antibiotics, synthetic pesticides, or GMOs in feed, appealing to health-conscious shoppers. While pricier, organic salmon supports stricter environmental and animal welfare standards.
8. Smoked Salmon Fillets
Smoked salmon fillets, often sold pre-sliced, vary widely in price from $22 to $35 per pound, depending on the brand and type of salmon used. This means a 4-ounce portion can cost $5 to $9. Smoked salmon offers a distinct smoky, salty flavor and is highly versatile for appetizers and salads. Look for wild-caught or sustainably farmed sources to ensure quality and responsible sourcing.
9. Premium Sushi-Grade Salmon Fillet
Sushi-grade salmon fillets, often labeled as “sashimi-grade,” command prices from $25 to $40 per pound, so a 4 to 6-ounce fillet can cost $7 to $15. These fillets meet strict freshness and safety standards, often flash-frozen to kill parasites. Ideal for raw preparations, sushi-grade salmon delivers the highest quality texture and flavor for raw consumption.
10. Value-Priced Salmon Portions
Many grocery stores offer value-priced salmon portions, often smaller or trimmed fillets, at $6 to $10 per pound. These portions can cost as little as $3 to $5 each, making them accessible for budget-conscious shoppers. While these may not be the largest or most premium cuts, they still provide good nutrition and flavor for everyday meals.
How to Choose
When selecting salmon fillets, prioritize freshness, species, and source over just price. Wild-caught salmon generally offers better flavor and nutritional benefits but can be seasonal and pricier. Farmed salmon provides year-round availability and lower cost but varies in quality depending on farming practices. Certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC help identify sustainable choices. Consider your cooking method too: fattier fillets like king or sockeye hold up well to grilling, while milder coho or pink salmon suit baking or pan-searing. Freshness indicators include firm flesh, moist appearance, and mild ocean scent. Finally, frozen fillets can be a smart choice if properly packaged and thawed with care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average weight of a salmon fillet?
Most salmon fillets weigh between 5 to 8 ounces, with 6 ounces being typical for a single serving.
Why is wild salmon more expensive than farmed salmon?
Wild salmon is caught in natural habitats with limited supply and seasonal availability, whereas farmed salmon is produced year-round in controlled environments, lowering costs.
Is frozen salmon as nutritious as fresh?
Yes, when frozen quickly after harvest, salmon retains most of its nutrients and freshness, making frozen a convenient and healthy option.
What certifications should I look for to ensure sustainable salmon?
Look for MSC, ASC, or organic labels that indicate sustainable fishing or responsible farming practices.
How long can I store fresh salmon fillets in the fridge?
Fresh salmon should be consumed within 1-2 days of purchase and stored at or below 40°F (4°C) for safety and quality.
Can I cook salmon directly from frozen?
Yes, you can cook salmon from frozen by baking, poaching, or grilling, but it may require longer cooking times and careful temperature monitoring.
Final Thoughts
Understanding salmon prices per fillet at grocery stores helps you make informed choices that suit your taste, budget, and cooking plans. Whether you opt for affordable pink salmon, premium sushi-grade cuts, or responsibly farmed Atlantic fillets, knowing what to expect in price and quality ensures you get the best value. Keep an eye on certifications and freshness indicators to enjoy safe, delicious salmon meals all year round.
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