Aldi vs. Walmart: Where To Buy 9 Pantry Staples for Less
Written by
Rafaela Stalbalk Klose
Edited by
Brendan McGinley
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Shoppers hoping to cut grocery costs often compare Aldi and Walmart, two of the most affordable retailers for pantry essentials. Both chains offer store-brand products that help lower grocery bills, but price differences across categories can influence where the best deals are found. Aldi’s focus on efficiency and a limited selection helps keep prices consistently low, while Walmart’s size and wide product range allow for competitive pricing in certain categories.
Comparing prices on frequently purchased items is often the best way for consumers to determine which retailer offers the greatest value for their household budgets. Here are nine staples from Aldi and Walmart compared.
1. Meat
Aldi often prices chicken thighs and whole chickens lower than Walmart. Its efficient supply chain and limited brand selection keep costs down, making it a reliable choice for budget-friendly protein. Walmart, on the other hand, may offer occasional promotions or larger pack sizes that appeal to those buying in bulk. Most days, Aldi wins, but keep an eye out for savings opportunities at the big-box store.
2. Dairy
Dairy products such as milk, cheese and butter typically cost less at Aldi. In some cases, prices range from 7% to nearly 20% lower than Walmart’s store-brand options. These savings can add up over time, especially for households that consume dairy regularly. Aldi’s partnerships with regional suppliers help maintain freshness and quality while keeping prices low.
3. Grains
Staple grains, including rice and pasta, show mixed pricing between the two stores. Aldi often offers better deals on long-grain white rice, while Walmart tends to have lower prices on jasmine, another type of long-grain rice. For pasta, price differences are small. Shoppers looking to maximize value can benefit from buying in bulk or taking advantage of store sales.
4. Baking Products
Baking essentials such as all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda and baking powder are often cheaper at Walmart, particularly under the Great Value brand. Frequent bakers may notice meaningful savings when purchasing these ingredients regularly. Aldi remains competitive but offers a smaller selection and smaller package sizes, while Walmart’s wider variety makes it a practical choice for frequent bakers. It comes down to whether you’re looking to save money immediately, or in the long-run. To put it another way: How often do you bake?
5. Canned Goods
Canned goods like vegetables, beans and pasta vary slightly in price between Aldi and Walmart. Canned green beans are typically similar in cost at both stores, but Walmart sometimes offers lower prices on corn and even quick meals like canned pastas that only need an easy reheating. The savings are often minor, so this one’s negligible even if you shop in bulk. Grab cans as you need them and don’t worry about comparison shopping.
6. Condiments and Sauces
Condiments, sauces and spreads also show pricing differences. Aldi offers good value on items such as ketchup, mustard and pasta sauce, often under its own store brand. Walmart’s Great Value products may be slightly cheaper for some sauces and peanut butter, particularly in larger containers. Consumers can save money by selecting brands based on item size and current promotions.
7. Oils and Vinegars
Oils, including vegetable and olive oil, along with basic vinegars such as white and apple cider, are generally priced competitively at Aldi. Walmart occasionally offers deeper discounts on larger bottles of oils under its Great Value brand, making it a practical option for those who cook frequently or buy in bulk. As oil eventually goes rancid (vinegar does not), this is a purchase to consider carefully, to avoid paying for lost product.
8. Fresh Produce
Walmart generally leads in fresh produce pricing, particularly for items like cucumbers, baby carrots, mini sweet peppers and avocados. Aldi focuses on a smaller, rotating selection of seasonal produce that still provides solid value. Shoppers who prioritize variety and availability may prefer Walmart, while those seeking staple fruits and vegetables at steady prices often find Aldi more dependable.
9. Other Pantry Staples
Other staples such as cereal, granola bars and oatmeal vary between the two retailers. Aldi’s store-brand cereals and breakfast staples often come in cheaper than Walmart’s, while Walmart provides a broader range of national brands and larger boxes that may reduce cost per ounce past a certain volume. Shoppers looking for basic breakfast items or snacks can often save more at Aldi, but those who value selection may find Walmart’s options more appealing.
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