Maple syrup is a popular natural sweetener that is made by boiling down the sap of maple trees. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of maple syrup. The price of maple syrup can vary depending on the grade, where it is purchased, and the time of year.
Quick Answer
On average, a gallon of pure maple syrup costs $50 to $60. However, prices can range from as low as $35 per gallon for lower grades up to $100 or more per gallon for premium fancy grades sold directly from maple farms and sugar shacks.
Factors That Affect Maple Syrup Prices
There are several factors that impact the retail price of maple syrup:
- Grade – Maple syrup is divided into various grades based on color and flavor. Lighter syrups are milder in taste and graded higher, while darker syrups have a more pronounced maple flavor and are lower graded. The highest grade is Fancy or Grade A Light Amber, followed by Grade A Medium Amber and Grade A Dark Amber. The lowest commercial grade is Grade B.
- Source – Buying directly from a maple syrup producer is usually cheaper than purchasing from stores. Small batch artisanal producers also tend to charge higher prices for their product.
- Location – Prices can vary depending on where it is purchased. Maple syrup costs more at retail stores than directly from a maple farm or producer.
- Supply and demand – Maple syrup production changes each season, so prices may fluctuate from year to year depending on yields.
- Time of year – Maple syrup prices tend to be a bit lower during spring when sap flow is highest.
- Packaging – Gallon tins or jugs tend to be cheaper than smaller specialty maple syrup bottles.
- Certified Organic – Organic maple syrup carries a premium price over conventional syrup.
Average Maple Syrup Prices by Grade
Here is a breakdown of common retail prices for a gallon of maple syrup by grade:
| Grade | Price Per Gallon |
|---|---|
| Fancy/Grade A Light Amber | $60 – $100+ |
| Grade A Medium Amber | $50 – $80 |
| Grade A Dark Amber | $45 – $70 |
| Grade B | $35 – $60 |
As you can see, the lighter and milder tasting syrup grades command higher prices, while the darker, more robust grades are cheaper.
Where to Buy Maple Syrup for Less
Here are some tips to find cheaper maple syrup prices:
- Buy directly from a maple farm, sugar shack, or local producer to cut out the retail markup
- Shop at farmers markets, farm stands, and maple festivals
- Purchase lower grade syrup like Grade A Dark Amber or Grade B
- Buy in bulk quantities like gallon jugs to save per ounce/unit
- Look for sales at grocery stores or big box retailers
- Buy store brands over name brands
- Order online from maple syrup companies
- Join a maple syrup membership club for discounts
How Much Does Maple Syrup Cost at Stores?
Expect to pay the following average prices when buying maple syrup at retail stores:
| Store | Price Per Gallon |
|---|---|
| Grocery Store | $60 – $100 |
| Walmart | $40 – $60 |
| Target | $50 – $80 |
| Costco | $35 – $45 (for Grade A or B in jug) |
| Amazon | $45 – $90 |
Grocery stores tend to have the biggest range when it comes to both grade variety and pricing. Big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco sell maple syrup in bulk gallon jugs at cheaper unit prices.
Buying Maple Syrup Direct from Producers
Purchasing maple syrup directly from the source is one of the best ways to get it at the lowest prices. Many maple farms sell gallons of syrup for $40 to $60 per gallon.
Small batch artisanal producers that focus on premium syrup may charge $80 to $100+ per gallon. Large maple cooperatives and wholesalers offer lower prices when buying gallons or bulk quantities.
You can find local maple farms and sugar shacks selling direct to consumers using websites like LocalHarvest.org or by contacting your state’s maple syrup producer association.
Does the Time of Year Affect Maple Syrup Prices?
Maple syrup prices fluctuate somewhat based on the time of year:
- Early Spring: This is maple sugaring season when sap flow is highest. Prices usually dip slightly during this active production period.
- Late Spring: Prices start to rise as the maple season ends and syrup supplies decrease until next season.
- Summer: Maple syrup prices peak during the summer months when sap is not flowing.
- Fall: Prices remain elevated going into fall and winter.
- Winter: Mid-winter prices drop a bit as producers sell off inventory before the next spring season.
So maple syrup tends to be cheapest during late winter and early spring. Buying a gallon or two during maple sugaring season and storing it can save you money long term.
Does the Maple Syrup Grade Affect Price?
Yes, there is a direct correlation between maple syrup grade and price. The lighter and milder tasting syrup grades fetch higher prices than the darker, robust grades.
This maple syrup grade price spectrum looks like:
Fancy > Grade A Light Amber > Grade A Medium Amber > Grade A Dark Amber > Grade B
Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup provides the best value, delivering classic maple flavor at a lower price point than lighter delicate grades. Keep in mind darker syrup is not inferior, just stronger maple taste.
Is Organic Maple Syrup More Expensive?
Yes, certified organic maple syrup is more expensive than conventional maple syrup. Organic maple syrup costs $15 to $30 more per gallon on average.
The higher price tag is due to:
- Extra costs to obtain organic certification
- Organic agricultural practices used by the maple farm
- Increased labor inputs
- Smaller yielding organic maple stands
- Higher organic food demand
However, some feel the premium quality and environmental benefits make it worthwhile. If your budget allows, organic maple syrup is a smart choice.
Does Maple Syrup Ever Go on Sale?
Yes, maple syrup does go on sale at certain times of the year, primarily:
- Early spring: Grocery stores run maple syrup promotions during maple sugaring season. Stock up on discounted gallons if you see a good sale.
- Fall/holiday season: Maple syrup gift packs are discounted leading up to the holidays in November and December.
- National Maple Syrup Day (December 17): Retailers often discount maple syrup or run specials around Maple Syrup Day.
- National Pancake Day (February or March): Maple syrup sales coincide with pancake related holidays.
- Producer bulk sales: Some large maple farms sell surplus inventory at bulk discount rates periodically through the year.
Sign up for rewards programs and check Sunday newspaper inserts for grocery maple syrup coupons.
Is it Cheaper to Make Your Own Maple Syrup?
Making your own maple syrup at home requires an investment in maple tapping equipment and a large number of maple trees. It takes 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of syrup.
Startup costs can be $500 to $2,000 or more. Ongoing maple tapping labor each season is also very time consuming.
So it’s not always practical or cost effective for a small scale producer to make maple syrup. Purchasing ready-made maple syrup is easier and likely cheaper in most cases.
How Long Does Maple Syrup Last When Sealed?
When stored properly in an air tight container, maple syrup can last for years past its printed best by date. An unopened commercially packaged container of maple syrup has an average shelf life of:
- 2 to 3 years in the pantry
- 5 to 7 years in the refrigerator
- 10+ years in the freezer
For maximum shelf life, keep maple syrup in a tightly sealed glass, plastic or tin container. Store in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. Freezing is best for long term storage spanning multiple years.
How Can You Tell If Maple Syrup Has Gone Bad?
Over time, maple syrup can go bad if exposed to air, light or temperature fluctuations. Signs of spoiled maple syrup include:
- Mold growing inside the container
- Sap hardened or crystallized within syrup
- Strange smell like fermented or stale odor
- Fizzy bubbles due to carbonated sap
- Watery looking (sap has separated)
- Discolored syrup with dark, dull or cloudy look
Maple syrup can also grow harmless bacteria that forms long stringy masses. Simply heating spoiled maple syrup for 10 minutes should kill any bacteria and restore it to safety.
What’s the Best Way to Store Maple Syrup?
Maple syrup will last longest when stored properly. Here are some tips for maximizing maple syrup shelf life:
- Keep maple syrup in an airtight container like a mason jar or resealable bottle
- Store in a cool, dark cabinet away from direct light, heat and humidity
- Refrigerating will extend shelf life – keeps for 5+ years chilled
- Maple syrup can be frozen for 10+ years storage life
- Do not leave maple syrup at room temperature or expose to heat
- After opening, pour out only the maple syrup needed and immediately reseal
- Watch for signs of spoilage like mold, crystals, bubbles or stringy texture
With proper storage techniques, you can keep maple syrup around for years to come.
Conclusion
Maple syrup is a natural, sweet treat that makes a delicious topping for pancakes and other foods. While prices differ based on grade, source, and quantity, expect to spend around $50 to $60 per gallon on average. The lighter Fancy grade fetches the highest price, while the darker, stronger tasting grades are the most affordable. Purchasing maple syrup directly from a local producer or during maple sugaring season can save you money. Just be sure to store your maple syrup properly in a sealed container in a cool, dark place so it lasts for years to come.
