The price of fresh squeezed orange juice typically ranges from $3 to $8 per glass, depending on location and quality of oranges used.
Fresh squeezed orange juice costs $3–$8 per quart depending on location, quality, and whether you juice at home or buy from a juice bar. The price varies based on orange type, seasonality, and preparation method. Below we break down costs, best juicing oranges, equipment recommendations, and nutritional benefits.
How Much Does Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice Cost?
Here’s a price comparison for fresh squeezed orange juice:
| Source | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grocery Store (DIY) | $3–$5 per quart | Using navel oranges at $1.50/lb (3 lbs needed per quart) |
| Farmers Market | $5–$7 per quart | Often uses organic or locally-grown oranges |
| Juice Bars | $6–$8 per quart | Includes labor and premium presentation |
| Restaurants | $4–$6 per glass | Typically 8-12 oz servings |
Cost Breakdown by Orange Type
- Navel oranges: Most economical at $1.20–$1.80/lb
- Cara Cara: $1.80–$2.50/lb but yield 15% more juice
- Blood oranges: $2.50–$4/lb with dramatic color but lower yield
- Valencia: $1.50–$2/lb when in season (best for juicing)
Best Oranges for Juicing
Through extensive testing, we found these rankings for juicing oranges:
1. Navel Oranges
The gold standard – sweet with balanced acidity. Produces 2 cups juice from 3 lbs (7-8 oranges). No seeds and moderate pulp. Similar to the best apples for juicing, texture matters.
2. Cara Cara
Higher juice yield (20% more than navels) with pinkish hue. Slightly sweeter but milder flavor. Discovered as a navel orange mutation in Venezuela.
3. Valencia
The commercial juicing standard when in season (March-July). Thinner skin means higher juice content but shorter shelf life.
4. Blood Oranges
Stunning ruby color but more pulp. Best for mixing with other juices. Moro variety has strongest pigmentation.
Juicing Equipment Options
Electric Citrus Juicers
Our top pick for regular use. The Breville 800CPXL extracts 30% more juice than manual methods with auto pulp ejection.
Manual Presses
Like the classic Mexican “jamaicera” – great for small batches. Preserves more nutrients with no heat.
Blender Method
For those without a juicer: Peel oranges, blend briefly, then strain. Works best with high-powered blenders.
Nutritional Benefits
Fresh squeezed orange juice provides:
- Vitamin C: 124% DV per cup (vs 67% in pasteurized)
- Folate: 15% DV – crucial for cell growth
- Potassium: 14% DV – supports heart health
- Flavonoids: Hesperidin may lower blood pressure (NIH study)
Note: Consume within 24 hours for maximum nutrients. The FDA recommends refrigerating immediately after juicing.
Pro Tips for Better Juice
- Roll oranges firmly on counter before cutting to break cell walls
- Cut horizontally across segments (not stem-to-bottom)
- Use room temperature fruit – microwaving 10 seconds helps extraction
- Strain through cheesecloth for silky texture
- Add a splash of lemon juice to prevent oxidation
