Although the growth in food prices has slowed compared to the previous year as per the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the costs remain higher than historical averages, prompting many Americans to search for ways to economize.
For those seeking to reduce their grocery expenses beyond cooking at home and meal planning, opting for a more economical grocery store could be beneficial.
Based on the 2024 U.S. Grocery Panel Study by MarketForce Information, here are the top 10 grocery stores offering the best value for your dollar, as reported by shoppers.
1. Food 4 Less
Value for Money: A notable 91% of shoppers at Food 4 Less cite the excellent value for money as their primary reason for shopping there.
Locations: Present in three states with 101 stores.
Food 4 Less, a Kroger subsidiary, offers a straightforward grocery shopping experience in Illinois, Indiana, and California. The stores’ warehouse-style layout and self-bagging policy contribute to significant savings for customers.
2. Grocery Outlet
Value for Money: 85% of shoppers at Grocery Outlet appreciate the value it offers.
Locations: 457 stores spread across eight states.
Grocery Outlet, established in 1946, is known for its discount offerings and is still owned by the founding Read family. The chain attracts over 1.5 million shoppers weekly with its affordable prices on well-known brands.
3. WinCo Foods
Value for Money: 77% of WinCo shoppers value the store for its cost-effective options.
Locations: 139 stores in 10 states.
Originating from a single store in Boise, Idaho, in 1967, WinCo Foods has expanded into a recognized chain for its low prices, despite no longer using flat carts.
4. Giant Eagle
Value for Money: 75% of Giant Eagle shoppers appreciate the value it provides.
Locations: Over 400 locations in five states.
Giant Eagle offers a diverse range of grocery formats, from small neighborhood markets to large supermarkets, and also features a Market District for specialty and organic items.
5. Market Basket
Value for Money: 73% of Market Basket shoppers find it valuable for money.
Locations: 94 stores across East Coast states.
With a history dating back to 1917, Market Basket serves New England with its promise of “More for your dollar,” offering a variety of departments including cheese, sushi, and fresh seafood.
6. Wegman’s
Value for Money: 70% of Wegman’s shoppers value the cost savings.
Locations: Over 110 stores in eight states.
Starting as a fruit and vegetable company in 1916, Wegman’s has become a respected name with over 110 stores across multiple states.
7. ALDI
Value for Money: 66% of ALDI shoppers enjoy the value it offers.
Locations: 2,300 stores in 39 states.
ALDI, a German discount grocery store, has expanded to over 2,000 stores in the U.S. since its inception in 1961, focusing on quality products at low prices.
8. BJ’s
Value for Money: 65% of BJ’s shoppers cite value for money as their main reason for shopping there.
Locations: Over 210 locations in 17 East Coast states.
BJ’s is an East Coast-based wholesale club offering significant savings on groceries and other household items for members.
9. Costco
Value for Money: 63% of Costco shoppers appreciate the value it provides.
Locations: 594 warehouse stores across the U.S.
Costco, a membership warehouse club established in 1976, is known for offering brand-name products at discounted prices, especially for bulk purchases.
10. Sam’s Club
Value for Money: 63% of Sam’s Club shoppers find it valuable for money.
Locations: 575 locations across the U.S.
Sam’s Club, owned by Walmart, is a membership-based warehouse chain offering premium quality and exclusive savings on a wide range of products.
Maximizing Your Savings
In addition to choosing a cost-effective grocery store, there are other strategies to further enhance your savings.
“Clip paper coupons from the Sunday paper or your mailbox and sign up for grocers’ rewards programs to find savings. Opting for generic brands can also help you avoid paying a premium for brand names,” suggests financial expert Bakke.
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