Mixed Hay Market Price of a Small Square Bale (2 string: approximately 50lbs) is $6.69 USD as of 7/17/24.
The price is based on the US Hay and Straw pricing survey listed below and the average weight of different sizes of bales.
The Math / Science
Mixed Hay is most commonly grasses (timothy) mixed with legumes (alfalfa) that is cut before it has gone to seed for the purpose of feeding livestock (cattle, horses, sheep and goats). It is cut, tedded, raked and baled in dry weather to prevent damage and the danger of fire when stored in a hayloft. The photo below shows hay that has been tedded and now raked into windrows preparing for baling.
There are four common sizes of bales:
2 string square bales: 14"x18"x"36" These weigh between 40lbs and 60 lbs. (average 50lb)
3 wire square bales: 16"x22"x44" These weigh between 100lbs and 120 lbs. (average 110lb)
Large square bales: 3' x 4' x8' These weigh between 1,200lbs and a 2,000 lbs. (average 1,600lb)
Round bales: 48" wide and 60" in diameter These weigh between 600 and 1,200lbs (average 900lb)
The most current US Hay and Straw Price Survey information data is as follows: