US Seafood Market Report by Type, Form & Distribution Analysis 2026

United States Seafood Market Size, Share, Trends, and Forecast (2026–2034)

According To Renub Research United States seafood market is a vital segment of the country’s food and agriculture industry, encompassing the production, import, processing, distribution, and consumption of edible marine species such as fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Seafood remains an integral component of the American diet due to its nutritional value, culinary versatility, and increasing alignment with health and sustainability preferences. Commonly consumed seafood varieties in the United States include shrimp, salmon, tuna, crab, cod, and oysters, which are distributed through both retail and foodservice channels.

In 2025, the U.S. seafood market was valued at approximately US$ 24.11 billion and is expected to reach US$ 28.89 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.03% between 2026 and 2034. Market growth is supported by rising consumer demand for protein-rich diets, heightened awareness of cardiovascular and metabolic health, and increasing emphasis on environmentally responsible fishing and aquaculture practices.

The market is also being reshaped by innovations in aquaculture, cold-chain logistics, and digital commerce. Expanded distribution channels, particularly online and direct-to-consumer platforms, are improving seafood accessibility across both coastal and inland regions. Together, these factors position the United States seafood market for steady and sustainable long-term growth.

United States Seafood Market Outlook

Seafood includes a wide range of edible marine organisms such as finfish, shellfish, and other aquatic species harvested from oceans, rivers, and aquaculture systems. In the United States, seafood consumption has steadily increased as consumers become more conscious of nutrition, sustainability, and food quality. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamins, and essential minerals, seafood is widely viewed as a healthier alternative to red and processed meats.

Historically, seafood consumption was concentrated in coastal regions due to proximity to fisheries and ports. However, improvements in cold storage, freezing technologies, and nationwide distribution networks have expanded seafood availability across inland states. The growing popularity of international cuisines, particularly Japanese, Mediterranean, and Southeast Asian dishes, has further accelerated seafood adoption in restaurants and home cooking.

Restaurants increasingly emphasize locally sourced and seasonal seafood, aligning with consumer demand for transparency and sustainability. At the same time, nutrition-focused diets and weight-management programs have positioned seafood as a staple protein choice. These trends collectively reinforce seafood’s importance in the U.S. food landscape.

Growth Drivers in the United States Seafood Market

Increasing Health and Wellness Trends

Health and wellness awareness is one of the strongest drivers of seafood consumption in the United States. Seafood is widely recognized for its role in supporting heart health, brain function, and weight management due to its high omega-3 content and low saturated fat levels. As consumers become more proactive about preventive healthcare, seafood has become a core component of balanced diets.

Public health campaigns and medical professionals frequently recommend regular seafood consumption, further strengthening consumer confidence. Salmon, in particular, has gained prominence as a premium health food, with rising demand across retail and foodservice channels. Meal-kit services and ready-to-cook seafood options have made preparation easier, encouraging more frequent at-home consumption. This sustained focus on nutrition continues to drive steady growth in the U.S. seafood market.

Growth of Aquaculture and Seafood Imports

Aquaculture plays an increasingly important role in meeting U.S. seafood demand. Domestic aquaculture production of species such as salmon, catfish, and shellfish has expanded, providing a more consistent and sustainable supply. At the same time, imports from Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Northern Europe supplement domestic output, ensuring year-round availability of popular seafood products.

Improved aquaculture techniques have enhanced product quality, traceability, and environmental performance. Regulatory frameworks focused on preventing illegal, unreported, and unregulated seafood have strengthened supply chain transparency. Together, domestic aquaculture and imports support stable pricing, improved access, and long-term market expansion.

Expansion of E-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Channels

Digital transformation has significantly altered how Americans purchase seafood. Online grocery platforms, specialty seafood websites, and direct-to-consumer delivery services now offer fresh, frozen, and specialty seafood products with nationwide reach. Advanced cold-chain logistics enable safe and timely doorstep delivery, even for highly perishable items.

Subscription-based seafood boxes and traceability-focused brands are gaining traction among premium consumers seeking convenience and sustainability. Digital engagement and targeted marketing campaigns have further accelerated online seafood sales. As e-commerce penetration continues to rise, online channels are expected to remain one of the fastest-growing segments of the U.S. seafood market.

Challenges in the United States Seafood Market

Sustainability and Overfishing Concerns

Environmental sustainability is a critical challenge for the U.S. seafood industry. Overfishing, habitat degradation, and bycatch threaten marine ecosystems and long-term seafood supply. Consumers, regulators, and advocacy groups increasingly demand responsible fishing practices, eco-certifications, and transparent sourcing.

While sustainable fisheries and aquaculture programs are expanding, compliance often involves higher operational costs and supply limitations. Failure to address sustainability concerns can undermine consumer trust and restrict market growth. Long-term success depends on balancing environmental stewardship with economic viability.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Price Volatility

Seafood supply chains are particularly vulnerable to climate variability, geopolitical tensions, fuel price fluctuations, and transportation disruptions. Seasonal availability, labor shortages, and rising logistics costs contribute to price volatility across retail and foodservice channels.

For consumers, fluctuating prices may reduce purchase frequency, while suppliers face challenges maintaining margins. Strengthening supply chain resilience, investing in traceability systems, and diversifying sourcing strategies are essential to ensuring market stability and sustained growth.

United States Seafood Market by Product Segment

United States Fish Market

The fish segment represents the largest share of the U.S. seafood market, driven by strong demand for salmon, tuna, cod, and pollock. Salmon remains the most popular fish species due to its health benefits, versatility, and widespread availability. Imports from Norway, Canada, and Chile complement domestic fisheries, ensuring consistent supply.

Consumers are increasingly seeking sustainably caught and locally sourced fish, adding diversity to the market. Retailers and restaurants continue to expand fish offerings, reinforcing the segment’s leadership within the overall seafood market.

United States Shrimps Market

Shrimp is the most consumed seafood in the United States, making it a cornerstone of the market. The majority of shrimp consumed is imported, primarily from India, Ecuador, and Indonesia. Consumer preference for peeled, deveined, and ready-to-cook shrimp products has fueled demand across retail and foodservice channels.

Quick-service restaurants and casual dining chains heavily feature shrimp-based menu items, further boosting consumption. Although sustainability and disease management in shrimp aquaculture present challenges, ongoing innovation continues to support stable growth.

United States Seafood Market by Form

United States Fresh and Chilled Seafood Market

Fresh and chilled seafood remains highly attractive to consumers seeking premium quality and superior taste. Supermarkets and specialty retailers are expanding seafood counters and emphasizing freshness and local sourcing. Urban markets show particularly strong demand due to higher disposable incomes and health awareness.

Advances in refrigeration and cold storage have extended shelf life and improved nationwide distribution. Despite higher price sensitivity, fresh and chilled seafood continues to appeal to nutrition-conscious consumers.

United States Frozen Seafood Market

Frozen seafood has gained significant popularity due to its affordability, convenience, and long shelf life. Modern freezing technologies preserve flavor, texture, and nutritional value, narrowing the perceived gap between fresh and frozen products.

Busy households increasingly rely on frozen seafood for quick and easy meal preparation. Retailers and online platforms are expanding frozen seafood assortments, including fillets, shrimp, and ready-to-eat meals, strengthening this segment’s growth.

United States Seafood Market by Distribution Channel

United States Online Seafood Market

Online seafood retail is among the fastest-growing distribution channels. Consumers increasingly value the convenience of ordering seafood online with home delivery. Subscription models, premium offerings, and transparency-driven branding are particularly appealing to urban and high-income consumers.

The acceleration of e-commerce adoption has permanently reshaped seafood purchasing behavior, making digital channels a key growth driver.

United States Seafood Convenience Stores Market

Convenience stores are gradually expanding their seafood offerings to cater to on-the-go consumers. Packaged seafood snacks, ready-to-eat items, and frozen products are becoming more common. Demand for high-protein, portable food options supports growth in this channel, especially in urban areas.

United States Seafood Market by State

California Seafood Market

California is one of the largest seafood markets in the United States, supported by a strong coastal fishing industry and health-conscious consumer base. Salmon, crab, and tuna are among the most popular species. The state’s diverse population drives demand for global seafood cuisines, while major ports facilitate large-scale imports.

Sustainability initiatives and eco-labeling play a significant role in shaping purchasing decisions. California continues to act as a trendsetter for seafood consumption and innovation.

New York Seafood Market

New York’s seafood market is driven by its dense population, cultural diversity, and extensive foodservice sector. Shellfish, salmon, and specialty fish are widely consumed across restaurants and retail outlets. Proximity to ports ensures reliable access to fresh and imported seafood.

Growth in e-commerce and specialty seafood retailers further strengthens the market, which balances premium demand with convenience-driven purchasing.

New Jersey Seafood Market

New Jersey has a well-established seafood market supported by coastal fisheries and strong domestic demand. The state is known for clams, scallops, and bluefish, which are distributed locally and nationally. Proximity to major metropolitan markets enhances distribution opportunities, while sustainability and aquaculture initiatives support long-term growth.

Market Segmentation Overview

By Type

·        Fish

·        Shrimps

·        Others

By Form

·        Fresh/Chilled

·        Canned

·        Frozen

·        Processed

By Distribution Channel

·        Off-Trade

o   Convenience Stores

o   Online Channel

o   Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

o   Others

·        On-Trade

By State

·        California

·        Texas

·        New York

·        Florida

·        Illinois

·        Pennsylvania

·        Ohio

·        Georgia

·        New Jersey

·        Washington

·        North Carolina

·        Massachusetts

·        Virginia

·        Michigan

·        Maryland

·        Colorado

·        Tennessee

·        Indiana

·        Arizona

·        Minnesota

·        Wisconsin

·        Missouri

·        Connecticut

·        South Carolina

·        Oregon

·        Louisiana

·        Alabama

·        Kentucky

·        Rest of United States

Competitive Landscape and Key Players

The U.S. seafood market is moderately fragmented, with major players competing on sourcing, sustainability, processing capacity, and distribution reach. Companies are assessed across company overview, leadership, recent developments, SWOT analysis, revenue performance, and strategic positioning.

Key players include Admiralty Island Fisheries Inc., Beaver Street Fisheries, High Liner Foods Inc., Inland Seafood Inc., Mowi ASA, NH Foods Ltd, Sysco Corporation, and Thai Union Group PCL.

Conclusion

The United States seafood market is poised for steady growth through 2034, driven by health-focused consumption patterns, expanding aquaculture, and digital distribution innovation. While sustainability challenges and supply chain volatility remain, continued investment in responsible sourcing, technology, and e-commerce is strengthening market resilience.

As consumer preferences evolve toward nutritious, convenient, and ethically sourced foods, seafood is expected to maintain its position as a core component of the American diet. The market offers significant opportunities for producers, distributors, and retailers that can adapt to changing demands while maintaining quality, transparency, and sustainability.