Charleston, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Despite a sharp rise in ground beef prices, Charleston’s burger scene has thrived with numerous affordable options under $10. Local favorites like Smash City Burgers and Joyland provide tasty offerings, adapting to the economic challenges while maintaining quality. Ground beef prices surged 51% since 2020, yet innovative cost management strategies allow these establishments to keep prices low. New eateries are emerging, contributing to a diverse menu landscape while local venues remain committed to quality ingredients amidst rising costs.
Charleston has seen a boom in affordable burger offerings despite the rising costs of ground beef. As prices for ground beef in the U.S. have surged by 51% since February 2020, local burger joints have adapted to the economic climate while still providing quality meals at budget-friendly prices. The increase in prices is largely attributable to the declining number of cattle, which is now at its lowest in 75 years, and recent tariffs impacting beef imports, alongside environmental changes affecting cattle rearing.
Restaurants like Smash City Burgers are gaining popularity by offering delicious burgers for under $10. Located in downtown Charleston’s Eastside neighborhood, the classic single burger at Smash City costs $6.70, while a classic double, Carolina Caviar single, and Oklahoma Onion burger are priced at $9.27. Smash City Burgers recently achieved recognition by winning the “Best Place to Get a Burger” award in the 2025 City Paper Burger Throwdown.
Jeremy Reynolds, the owner of Smash City, has emphasized that the volume of burger sales—over 400 burgers served on busy days—plays a crucial role in the ability to maintain low prices. Over the past few years, ground beef prices have varied significantly, peaking at $5.50 per pound at Smash City, considerably higher than the $3.20 per pound when they opened in 2020.
Another notable player in this affordable burger boom is Joyland, opened in 2025, which offers multiple burgers under $10. Their menu includes the Junior JoyBurger Deluxe priced at $7 and the Joyburger Deluxe at $10. Joyland’s hospitality manager has pointed out the importance of using high-quality ingredients while working diligently to keep costs manageable to retain budget-friendly pricing for customers.
Hugh-Baby’s burgers are also priced below $10. The establishment focuses on cost management and waste reduction to remain competitive. Furthermore, Heavy’s Barburger is another local favorite, offering the Luten’s Cheeseburger priced at $9.99. The co-owner of Heavy’s has projected no anticipated price increases, with an ongoing commitment to providing value to patrons.
The Charleston burger scene has evolved rapidly, embracing diversity in menu offerings from traditional to gourmet burgers. New establishments such as The Tippling House and Husk are contributing to the city’s culinary landscape by providing high-quality burgers in various price ranges.
With the USDA forecasting a 4% decline in beef production for 2025 and an additional 2% decrease in 2026, the local burger industry appears to be navigating its way through these challenges with an emphasis on quality ingredients and efficient operations. As climate change and other factors continue to drive prices up, Charleston’s burger venues remain resolute in their commitment to affordable quality.
FAQ
- What has been the price increase for ground beef in the U.S. since February 2020? Ground beef prices in the U.S. have risen by 51% since February 2020.
- Why are ground beef prices high? The number of cattle in the U.S. is at its lowest in 75 years, contributing to high prices.
- What is the price of a classic single burger at Smash City Burgers? The classic single burger at Smash City costs $6.70.
- How many burgers does Smash City serve on busy days? Smash City serves over 400 burgers on busy days.
- What is the USDA’s forecast for beef production in 2025? The USDA forecasts a 4% decline in beef production for 2025 and a 2% decrease in 2026.
Chart of Key Features
| Restaurant | Classic Burger Price | Burger Variety | Daily Sales Volume | Award Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smash City Burgers | $6.70 | Classic single, Classic double, Carolina Caviar, Oklahoma Onion | 400+ burgers on busy days | Best Place to Get a Burger, City Paper Burger Throwdown 2025 |
| Joyland | $7 – $10 | Junior JoyBurger Deluxe, Joyburger Deluxe | Not specified | No specific awards reported |
| Hugh-Baby’s | Under $10 | Variety of burgers | Not specified | No specific awards reported |
| Heavy’s Barburger | $9.99 | Luten’s Cheeseburger and others | Not specified | No specific awards reported |
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Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: 2025 Burger Throwdown Winners
- Eater Carolinas: Best Burgers in Charleston
- Post and Courier: National Cheeseburger Day Deals
- Wikipedia: Burger
- Google Search: Charleston burger restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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