When it comes to grocery prices across the United States, there's a significant variance influenced by factors such as geography, local economies, and transportation costs. Hawaii, renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique culture, unfortunately, grapples with the highest grocery prices in the nation. The isolation of the islands contributes to steep prices as goods often need to be imported, driving up transportation expenses. Following Hawaii, states like Vermont and Alaska also face elevated grocery costs, attributed in part to their remote locations and harsh climates, which can impact agricultural production and distribution. These challenges make securing affordable and diverse food options a bit more challenging for residents in these regions, emphasizing the need for strategic budgeting and resource management.
On the other hand, states like New Hampshire offer a reprieve with relatively lower grocery prices, providing residents with more budget-friendly options for their shopping needs. Despite being one of the smallest states in terms of land area, New Hampshire's proximity to major metropolitan areas and its thriving agricultural sector contribute to its affordability. Interestingly, states with high populations like California manage to maintain grocery prices around the national average, showcasing a delicate balance between supply chain logistics, consumer demand, and market competition. Understanding these variations not only highlights the economic dynamics shaping our daily lives but also underscores the importance of local resilience and community support in ensuring access to essential goods for all residents.
FAQs
The data in this map is based on 2023 numbers. The average cost of groceries in America in 2024 is $418.44 a month per person1 . However, this number can vary greatly depending on factors like age and personal eating habits.
Which US state has the most expensive groceries? ›
Hawaii tops the list with average weekly grocery spend of $333.88, while Alaska follows closely behind with $328.71.
- 5 states with the highest average weekly grocery bills. Hawaii: $333.88. Alaska: $328.71. California: $297.72. ...
- 5 states with lowest average weekly grocery bills. Wisconsin: $221.46. Iowa: $227.32.
According to a new report from the Department of Agriculture, foods prices overall are expected to decelerate for the rest of 2024 and into 2025.
What state pays the least for groceries? ›
1. Wisconsin. If you want to find the least expensive groceries in the nation, look no further than The Badger State. The weekly grocery spend here averages $221.46.
Should I stock up on food in 2024? ›
Should I be stocking up on food in 2024? Yes, it's a prudent measure to ensure you have a well-rounded stockpile of non-perishable foods.
What is a realistic grocery budget for a family of 4? ›
This includes purchasing items from your local grocery store or supermarket. On average, a family of four can expect to spend anywhere between $500 to $1,000 per month on groceries, depending on factors such as dietary choices, quality of ingredients, and location.
What is the most overpriced state? ›
Hawaii is the most expensive state to live in, according to new cost of living data from doxo, an online bill payment service.
What state has the cheapest everything? ›
Mississippi: According to World Population Review, in 2023, Mississippi holds the title of the cheapest state to live in the United States. Its cost of living index is 85, and overall costs in the state are 17% lower than the national average.
Which state has the highest grocery tax? ›
Mississippi. Mississippi currently has the highest-taxed groceries in the U.S. The state taxes essential food items at the regular 7% tax rate. Some Mississippi lawmakers proposed reducing the grocery tax, but their efforts haven't succeeded. Efforts to reduce the state's income tax have been more successful.
How to afford groceries in 2024? ›
Here are a few ideas:
- Cook at home. Making your meals at home is a healthier and cheaper alternative to eating out or getting takeout. ...
- Consume smaller amounts of meat. ...
- Don't waste food. ...
- Stock up on coupons. ...
- Eat less snacks. ...
- Plan ahead. ...
- Understand your spending patterns.
However, the overall cost of groceries is unlikely to fall substantially. But there is a silver lining. As grocery inflation slows, wages are catching up. Over the last year, average wages have risen 3.9%, or about three and a half times as fast as grocery prices.
How much does bread cost in 2024? ›
Bread now costs over $2 per pound — $2.03, to be exact, as of January. Last January, the same pound cost just $1.89 for a year-over-year increase of 7.7%. A standard loaf of sliced white bread weighs 20oz, which means a loaf costs about $2.54, so $20 can buy you just shy of eight loaves.
Can you live on $50 a week for groceries? ›
Planning out your meals so you use all of the ingredients, both raw and cooked, plus pantry staples and frozen goods means you can make a week's worth of dinners for around $50 in groceries.
How can I live on $20 in groceries a week? ›
Your Shopping List
- 1 bag of dried beans: $1.49.
- 2 pounds of chicken breast: $3.76.
- 1 jar of peanut butter: $1.98.
- 1 jar of jelly: $1.79.
- 1 loaf of whole wheat bread: $1.63.
- 1 dozen eggs: $1.26.
- 1 container of oatmeal: $1.35.
- 1 bag of dried lentils: $1.39.
1. North Dakota. North Dakota has the lowest grocery index in the country at 94.2, which is 15.8% below the national average. This state has the lowest average costs for many basic foods including milk, orange juice, sugar and frozen meals.
Is there going to be a food shortage in 2024? ›
2024 is shaping up to be a difficult year when it comes to food shortages. However, the food shortage in 2024 isn't the end of the world, especially if you work with a wholesale food supplier.
What prices are going up in 2024? ›
Beef and veal, eggs, and sugar and sweets are expected to increase the most in price for all of 2024. Sugar and sweets are forecasted to go up 5.8% while egg prices could increase as much as 4.7%. Beef and veal prices are projected to increase 2.7% this year.
Will food prices go down in 2025? ›
The USDA said 2025 prices for all food are predicted to increase by 2%, with a prediction interval from down 3.2% to up 7.5%. Grocery prices are predicted to increase by 1.1%, with a prediction interval from down 6.6% to up 9.4%.
What is the average monthly cost of groceries USA? ›
How much does the average household spend on groceries per month? The average American household spends an average of $475.25 a month on groceries, according to the most recently available dataset from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2022. That's a total of $5,703 spent on groceries in a year.
