Tomato prices surge as weather damage and rising costs squeeze supply

Tomatoes are becoming one of the most expensive items in the produce aisle as a perfect storm of bad weather, supply shortages, and rising costs hits farmers and consumers alike.

Prices have surged significantly in recent months, with tomato costs up more than 22% compared to last year. At grocery stores, shoppers are now paying some of the highest prices seen in nearly a decade.

The spike is largely driven by extreme weather in key growing regions. A rare freeze in Florida wiped out a large portion of crops during peak season, while excessive rain and moisture in Mexico—where the majority of U.S. tomatoes are grown—damaged plants and reduced yields.

As a result, suppliers say they are receiving only a fraction of their usual shipments, forcing buyers to pay significantly more just to secure inventory.

On top of supply issues, rising fuel and fertilizer costs are adding even more pressure. Diesel prices have jumped sharply due to ongoing global tensions, increasing the cost of transporting produce across the country. Fertilizer prices have also surged, making it more expensive for farmers to grow crops in the first place.

Tariffs on imported tomatoes are another factor pushing prices higher.

Experts say tomatoes are now one of the biggest contributors to produce inflation this spring, and consumers may continue to feel the impact until new crops are ready for harvest.

While some relief could come in the coming weeks as new supply enters the market, farmers warn that volatility in weather and global costs means prices could remain unpredictable.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.