This is the Cheapest Grocery Store Right Now

Food is one of the most significant expenses for U.S. households, ranking just behind housing and transportation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, groceries can make up a substantial portion of your budget, so finding ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality is essential.

Whether you’re a budget-conscious shopper or just looking to save a little extra each month, knowing where to buy cheap groceries can make a huge difference.

Recent research by Coupons4Real.com highlights the best places to buy groceries based on affordability. Here’s a look at the top contenders for the title of the cheapest grocery store and some tips on how to get the most for your money at these stores.

Walmart: The Cheapest Overall Grocery Store

Regarding grocery shopping, Walmart consistently stands out as the most affordable store. Walmart’s store-brand products, sold under Great Value, are often priced significantly lower than name-brand items. This is especially true when comparing the cost of everyday essentials like dairy, meat, and bread.

For example, Walmart’s Great Value mozzarella is priced at about $0.23 per ounce, while the average cost of mozzarella at other grocery stores is around $0.38 per ounce.

Similarly, store-label chicken at Walmart is about $0.17 per ounce, compared to $0.28 per ounce at other supermarkets. If you’re willing to buy Walmart’s private-label products, you’ll see some of the lowest prices on the market.

Here’s a quick comparison of prices between Walmart and other stores for some everyday grocery items:

Mozzarella: Walmart $0.23 per ounce vs. $0.38 elsewhere
Store-Brand Chicken: Walmart $0.17 per ounce vs. $0.28 elsewhere
Store-Brand Flatbread: Walmart $0.18 per ounce vs. $0.31 elsewhere

If you aim to save money and are okay with buying store-brand items, Walmart is a great choice. Its consistent affordability makes it the cheapest grocery store for most items.

Aldi: A Strong Contender for Low Prices

While Walmart leads the pack overall, Aldi is another top contender regarding low grocery prices. Aldi is known for its no-frills shopping experience, which helps keep costs down.

The study from Coupons4Real found that Aldi ranks second for the cheapest store-brand groceries, with its products often priced in the 35% lowest range compared to competitors.

Aldi is incredibly affordable in specific categories, such as:

Cheddar Cheese: Aldi $0.21 per ounce vs. $0.43 elsewhere
Mixed Vegetables: Aldi $0.14 per ounce vs. $0.20 elsewhere
Ground Beef: Aldi $0.25 per ounce vs. $0.40 elsewhere
Fruit Mixes: Aldi $0.11 per ounce vs. $0.22 elsewhere
Lactose-Free Milk: Aldi $0.05 per fl. oz. vs. $0.06 elsewhere
Plant-Based Milk: Aldi $0.04 per oz. vs. $0.05 elsewhere
Frozen Seafood: Aldi $0.23 per oz. vs. $0.54 elsewhere
Coffee Creamers: Aldi $0.09 per oz. vs. $0.10 elsewhere
Sour Cream: Aldi $0.12 per oz. vs. $0.15 elsewhere
Cottage Cheese: Aldi $0.10 per oz. vs. $0.14 elsewhere

The prices at Aldi are hard to beat, especially for staples like dairy, meats, and frozen goods. If you’re focused on getting the most for your money, Aldi is a great option, particularly for products often overpriced at other stores.

Costco: Great for Bulk Purchases

Costco is well-known for its bulk buying options, which can yield significant savings if you purchase large quantities. While it’s not the cheapest compared to Aldi and Walmart, Costco offers excellent value, especially on larger purchases.

If you’re shopping for a family or looking to stock up on pantry staples, a Costco membership could save you a lot in the long run.

A Costco membership typically costs around $60 per year, and while it’s more expensive than Aldi or Walmart for specific items, it can still be an affordable choice for larger purchases.

Costco’s prices are usually about 5% higher than Aldi’s, but you’re getting much larger quantities of food, which can translate into savings over time.

Other Affordable Grocery Stores to Consider

While Walmart, Aldi, and Costco are among the top contenders, there are other stores where you can find great grocery deals. Here’s a quick look at different options for affordable grocery shopping:

Target: Known for its wide variety of products, Target often offers competitive pricing, especially on weekly promotions and store-brand items.
Kroger: Kroger has a robust loyalty program and frequent sales, making it an affordable option for many shoppers.
Trader Joe’s: While only sometimes the cheapest option, Trader Joe’s is still a popular choice for high-quality and reasonably priced groceries, especially specialty items.

How to Save Even More on Groceries

Aside from choosing the right grocery store, there are other ways to save money on your grocery bill. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your grocery shopping:

Shop in Bulk: If you have the storage space, buying in bulk can save you money on everyday items like rice, pasta, and canned goods.
Use Coupons: Many stores offer digital coupons that can be easily applied at checkout. Take advantage of these deals whenever possible.
Buy Generic: Generic or store-brand products are often just as good as their name-brand counterparts but cost significantly less.
Plan Your Meals: Planning meals and shopping with a list can help you avoid impulse buys and reduce food waste.
Take Advantage of Sales: Watch for weekly sales or special promotions at your local grocery stores. Stocking up on sale items can help you save in the long run.

Conclusion

When it comes to grocery shopping, choosing the right store can significantly affect your budget.

Walmart and Aldi are the best choices for affordable groceries, but Costco can also be great if you’re looking to buy in bulk. By being strategic about where and how you shop, you can save money on your grocery bill without compromising on quality.

FAQs

What is the cheapest grocery store?

Walmart is generally considered the cheapest grocery store, especially for store-brand products like Great Value.

Is Aldi cheaper than Walmart?

Yes, Aldi is typically cheaper than Walmart for certain products, particularly dairy, meat, and frozen foods.

How can I save money on groceries without switching stores?

To save money, consider using coupons, buying in bulk, and opting for store brands instead of name brands.

Is Costco worth it for everyday shopping?

Costco can be worth it if you buy in bulk or stock up on items you use regularly, but there are better options for smaller quantities.

Are there ways to save money on groceries online?

Yes, many stores offer online grocery shopping with promotions and discounts. You can also use apps that track price drops and provide digital coupons for extra savings.