Summer cookouts cost nearly $3 more this holiday than last year

This year's summer cookouts are costing nearly $3 more per person than last year, thanks to a 4% price increase, matching the current inflation rate. The American Farm Bureau Federation's annual survey highlights this rise, noting the increased cost of essentials like meat and produce for a typical 10-person gathering. This trend underscores the broader economic pressures impacting everyday expenses, reflecting how even small gatherings are feeling the pinch of higher prices. It's a reminder that rising costs are seeping into all aspects of life, from casual family barbecues to larger celebrations.