Protein Source Cost Comparison Calculator
Compare cost per gram of protein from eggs, chicken, beef, tofu, and other sources.
Find the most budget-friendly high-protein foods ranked by cost efficiency.
Why Cost Per Gram of Protein Matters Protein is the most expensive macronutrient per calorie. Comparing foods by price alone is misleading — a cheaper food with lower protein density may cost more per gram of protein.
The Formula Total Protein = Weight (oz) × Protein per oz (grams) Cost per Gram of Protein = Price ($) ÷ Total Protein (g) Cost per 30g Serving = Cost per Gram × 30
Reference Protein Densities (approximate) Chicken breast: 7g protein per oz Canned tuna: 6.5g protein per oz Greek yogurt: 4.5g protein per oz Cottage cheese: 3.5g protein per oz Hard-boiled eggs: 3.6g protein per oz (each egg ≈ 6g total) Whey protein powder: 12-14g protein per oz Lentils (cooked): 2.5g protein per oz Beef (85% lean): 5.5g protein per oz Tofu (firm): 2.5g protein per oz Black beans (cooked): 2.3g protein per oz
What Is a Good Price for Protein? Under $0.05 per gram = Excellent (budget champion) $0.05 - $0.10 per gram = Good value $0.10 - $0.20 per gram = Average $0.20 - $0.35 per gram = Expensive Over $0.35 per gram = Premium / specialty
30g of Protein Per Day? Many fitness recommendations suggest 0.7-1g of protein per pound of body weight. For a 180lb person, that is 126-180g of protein per day — requiring multiple protein sources.
How we build and check this calculator
This calculator runs entirely in your browser, so the numbers you enter stay on your device. The math behind it is written by hand and tested against worked examples and standard references before the page goes live.
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