This State Is the Cheapest for Groceries — How Much Would You Save Living Here?

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Recent years brought near-record levels of inflation, especially for groceries.

The Avian flu continues to drive up the price of eggs and poultry, as flocks are culled if even just one bird is infected. Since January 2022, the flu hit more than 130 million poultry, according to a recent report from The Providence Journal.

But, depending on where you live, grocery prices vary widely. Food Label Maker recently completed a study to find the 10 cheapest (and most expensive) states for groceries. How does your state rank?

Most Affordable States for Groceries

1. Texas
2. Michigan
3. Mississippi
4. Arkansas
5. Kentucky
6. Indiana
7. Oklahoma
8. Kansas
9. Tennessee
10. Georgia

Least Affordable States for Groceries

1. Hawaii
2. Alaska
3. California
4. Massachusetts
5. New York
6. Maryland
7. Washington
8. Oregon
9. New Jersey
10. Vermont

More Insights From the Survey

Separate from calculating the average cost of groceries per person, the survey also analyzed the change in prices over the past two years, the cost difference from the national average, and historical grocery prices from 2022.

These factors helped the researchers determine the least and most affordable states for groceries in today’s economy.

How Grocery Costs Have Risen Since 2022

Based on the survey findings, grocery prices have risen, for the most part, across the country. Prices dropped slightly (less than 1%) in Alaska, and by 14% in Hawaii.

However, these two states remain two of the most costly for groceries. In Texas, still the most affordable state, prices rose by more than 31% in the past two years.

How Average Grocery Costs Affect Your Household Budget

The survey also explored the average price of groceries per person in 2024.

People in Texas spent an average of $287, which is nearly $68 lower than the national average in 2024, and $270 less than those in Hawaii.

The price of groceries may not be a reason to relocate. But if you are thinking of moving, you should factor these costs into your monthly household budget. With a smaller grocery bill in Texas, you may be able to splurge in other categories, pay down debt, or increase your household savings account.

Of course, even in costly areas, you can save money by purchasing generic products or shopping at wholesale clubs like Costco or discount groceries like Lidl instead of pricier stores like Target or Whole Foods.

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