6 Items To Buy at Publix This Summer If You Live on Social Security
Written by
Madeline Duley
Edited by
Cory Dudak
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Living on a fixed budget doesn’t mean you have to stick to a fixed grocery list. With a little shopping savvy, you can stretch your Social Security check further while filling your fridge and pantry with delicious — and nutritious — ingredients.
Ditch the ramen packs and start getting creative in the kitchen by shopping at Publix. From weekly BOGO deals to a constant rotation of coupons, Publix’s summer savings are tough to beat. Here are six finds to add to your cart to keep your budget in check and your palate satisfied this summer.
Lentils
- Price: $1.57
Take advantage of Publix’s weekly BOGO deals and stock up on pantry staples ahead of the summer. One versatile favorite? Lentils.
“Incredibly budget-friendly and shelf-stable, lentils are packed with protein and fiber,” said Sarah Bond, nutritionist and food scientist at Live Eat Learn. “One bag can make soups, veggie burgers or hearty stews that feed a crowd. I often combine them with canned tomatoes and spices to make a simple dal or chili –both are filling and freezer-friendly.”
Expert tip: Download the Publix app to stay on top of BOGO deals and get the most bang for your buck.
Berry Bliss Ice Cream
- Price: $7.29
Available for a limited time only, if you have a soft spot for berry flavors, the Freedom Berry Bliss Ice Cream is a must-try.
With ribbons of strawberry, mascarpone and blueberry, it’s the perfect treat for Fourth of July gatherings or a nostalgic dessert to enjoy with the grandkids.
It’s often on sale, too — watch for BOGO or $3.50-per-pint deals to score even greater savings.
Passionfruit Basil Lemonade
- Price: $3.31
Publix regulars know you can’t leave the store without picking up a jug of the fresh deli lemonade. At just over $3, the newest addition — passionfruit basil lemonade — delivers showstopping flavor, with sweet passionfruit taking center stage.
Buying drinks out, particularly alcoholic ones, can quickly eat up your summer budget. Instead, mix this lemonade into cocktails or sip solo for a burst of sweet and tart flavor in every sip.
Frozen Vegetables
- Price: $3.31
Say goodbye to buying fresh veggies only to let them wilt away in your fridge. Instead, get your veggies in fuss-free with GreenWise Organic Mixed Vegetables.
“Frozen veggies are often picked at peak freshness and are cheaper than fresh, especially in summer when prices can fluctuate,” Bond said. “They cut down on prep time and waste, and they’re just as nutritious (sometimes more) than their fresh counterparts.”
At just $0.28 per ounce, each bag includes carrots, corn, green beans and green peas — no short shelf life here.
Lemon Pepper Oven Roasted Chicken
- Price: $8.85
Juicy, zesty and bursting with flavor, the lemon pepper oven-roasted chicken from Publix is the perfect fridge companion this summer. On hot summer days, the last place you want to be is the kitchen. Instead, skip the stove and enjoy the convenience of no cooking (with the savings of not eating out).
Toss it in a salad, lay it on a sandwich or snack on it as-is. At just $8.85 for the whole bird, it’s even cheaper than a Chipotle bowl — and way more versatile.
Seedless Watermelon
- Price: $8.85
Nothing says summer like a fresh slice of seedless watermelon — and right now’s the time to buy. Watermelons are currently in peak season, which means you’re getting the best prices and flavor — a win-win!
Even better? Publix’s watermelons are massive and priced per melon, not per pound, so you’ll get a great value for the money.
Disclaimer: Prices and availability accurate as of Jul. 7, 2025 and subject to change.
Photo disclaimer: All imagery sourced from Publix.com.
More From GOBankingRates
