A quarter cow (also called a beef quarter or quarter share) is 25% of a single beef animal. It is the most approachable entry point for buying beef directly from a farm because it requires less upfront cash and less freezer space than a half or whole cow. Here is everything you need to know.
How Much Beef Is in a Quarter Cow?
A quarter cow yields roughly 90-115 pounds of finished, packaged beef depending on the size of the animal. Some quarters come in a little lighter at 80 lbs, some heavier at 120+ lbs.
Front Quarter vs. Hind Quarter
When buying a quarter, you might be offered a front quarter or hind quarter - or more often, a mixed quarter (sometimes called a split quarter). Here is the difference:
- Front quarter: More ground beef and chuck cuts. Fewer premium steaks. Better for people who cook a lot of roasts and ground beef.
- Hind quarter: More steaks - sirloin, round, T-bone area. Less ground beef. Better if you want more grilling cuts.
- Split/mixed quarter: Half the front quarter and half the hind quarter, giving you a more balanced mix. This is what most farms offer.
Ask the farm which option they offer - not all farms break it this way.
What Does a Quarter Cow Cost?
Expect to pay roughly $750-$1,400 all-in for a quarter cow depending on your region, whether the beef is grass-fed or grain-finished, and the farm. This typically breaks down to $7-$12 per pound of finished beef for grass-fed, or $5-$8 for grain-finished.
Freezer Space Needed
A quarter cow requires approximately 3-4 cubic feet of freezer space. A standard kitchen freezer (the one on top or below your fridge) is usually not enough unless it is mostly empty. A small standalone chest freezer (5 cu ft) works well.
How to Find a Quarter Cow
Many farms sell halves and will split the half between two buyers - so you effectively get a quarter. Some farms only sell halves or wholes and do not officially offer quarters. Search beef share farms by state on Butcher Bud and call farms directly to ask about their sizing options and availability. Many farms book months out during the spring and fall buying seasons.