A few suggestions:
1. Like MrsWolfe said, if you can buy direct from the rancher, you’re going to be supporting a local rancher as well as getting a fair price. You’ll get to see first hand the type of environment the cattle were raised in and have a closer connection with your food. Find friends or family members with similar nutrition goals and go in a full, 1/2, or 1/4 beef to save money. Beef prices fluctuate similar to other commodities, so around here, rainfall tends to correlate closely with the cost (more rain equals less hay, less hay equals less cost).
2. Remember that all meat isn’t created equal, nor is all grass fed beef. “Beef” is usually categorized as one food, but there are numerous breeds of cattle and some are leaner than others. For example, we prefer Scottish Highland cattle because it’s the leanest cattle breed on the market. You can also look at bison, venison, and elk, all of which tend to be much healthier choices than your average supermarket beef.
3. Don’t get too caught up in the price. I know it’s MMM, but eat half as much meat, and you can afford twice the quality. Food is one area that I don’t skimp on. You only have one body and all the money in the world means nothing without your health.
4. While you’re at it, look into CSA shares for your produce needs. You can save a lot of money going that route vs buying organic at a grocery store.