Farm
Marin Coast Ranch
Tomales
★5.0(8)Historic family ranch in Tomales focused on conservation and sustainable grazing practices.
Grass-FedPasture-Raised
1/4 Cow · 1/2 Cow · Whole Cow
Farm Pickup
View DetailsBuy Half a Cow in Tomales, California
2 local suppliers selling bulk beef in the Tomales area — including 2 grass-fed options. Prices in California typically range $12.00-16.00/lb per pound.
Avg. Rating
4.9 stars
96 reviews
Half Cow Cost
$3,000-4,500
in California
Best Season
May-July
peak availability
Hanging Weight
$7.00-10.00/lb
before processing
When to Buy in California
The 'green season' harvest (May-July) produces peak quality grass-fed beef - cattle are at maximum marbling after grazing high-sugar spring grasses. Fall (September-November) faces severe processing bottlenecks from hunting season. Book shares in January-March for summer delivery.
2 Suppliers in Tomales
Farm
Stemple Creek Ranch
Tomales
★4.7(88)Leader in regenerative agriculture offering 100% grass-fed Angus beef. Ships nationwide and offers local pickup in Tomales.
Grass-FedGrass-FinishedDelivery
1/4 Cow · 1/2 Cow · Whole Cow +1 more
Farm PickupShips Nationwide
View DetailsLocal Tip for California Buyers
Don't wait until fall - the processing bottleneck is brutal. Pre-order in early spring for a May-July harvest when grass-fed quality peaks. If you're in LA, join a 'buying club' that aggregates orders for delivery from Central Coast ranches to reduce food miles.
Frequently Asked Questionsabout buying beef in California
01
How much does half a cow cost in California?
California is expensive - expect $3,000-4,500 for a half cow. Premium grass-fed from Marin/Sonoma runs $8-10/lb hanging weight (360 lbs = $2,880-3,600). Add $225 slaughter and $1.25/lb processing ($450). Your effective take-home cost is $12-16/lb - steep for ground beef but competitive with $35+ ribeyes at specialty markets.
02
Why is California beef more expensive?
Three factors: (1) Extreme land values near urban centers (Marin competes with vineyards and estates), (2) chronic drought cycles force expensive hay imports ($250+/ton), and (3) severe processor shortages allow facilities to charge premium rates. The 'California premium' is 15-30% above national averages.
03
When should I buy grass-fed beef in California?
The green season (May-July) is optimal. California grasses peak in spring - by summer they dry to golden stalks. Cattle harvested in early summer have maximum marbling from high-sugar forage. Avoid October-December when processors are backed up with hunting season and 4-H animals. Pre-order in January-March.
04
What is 'Custom Exempt' and is it safe?
Custom Exempt means you buy the live animal (or share) before slaughter. The processor then butchers YOUR animal as a service, not a sale. Meat is stamped 'NOT FOR SALE' - only for your household. It's completely safe and standard for bulk beef. This pathway allows use of smaller local butchers instead of overcrowded USDA facilities.