If you have noticed that ground beef and steaks are getting more expensive, you are not alone. The price of beef is currently at record highs due to a combination of smaller cattle herds and high demand. Ranchers have been dealing with years of drought and high operating costs, which have forced many to reduce their numbers. Meanwhile, Americans continue to love their beef, especially during the summer grilling months when outdoor cookouts are at their peak. Here is why the cost of your favorite burger is likely to stay high this year.