LendingTree Food Cost Report
It cost 1.8% less to buy a typical basket of groceries in July than a month earlier, according to a LendingTree analysis of 33 commonly purchased items. However, prices are 3.1% higher than three months ago and 2.0% higher than a year ago.
LendingTree reviewed U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on the cost of hundreds of food items, including dairy, dry pantry items, eggs, fruits, meats, onions and potatoes, and vegetables. This helped us calculate the total cost of a typical basket of groceries for an American family.
Here’s what we found.
Key findings
- The overall cost of a typical grocery basket — including dairy, dry pantry items, eggs, fruits, meats, onions and potatoes, and vegetables — decreased by 1.8% or $1.55 (from $87.73 to $86.18) between June and July. The biggest decreases in our sample basket were:
- Carrots: Down 42.4% or $0.73 per one-pound bag
- Broccoli: Down 28.6% or $0.67 per pound
- Whole bagged fryer chicken: Down 18.5% or $0.30 per pound
- The overall cost of that same basket was up 3.1% or $2.60 (from $83.58 to $86.18) compared to three months earlier. The biggest increases were:
- Large white A eggs: Up 62.4% or $0.93 per dozen
- Broccoli: Up 39.2% or $0.47 per pound
- Russet potatoes: Up 38.1% or $0.90 per five-pound bag
- The overall cost of that same basket was up 2.0% or $1.65 (from $84.53 to $86.18) compared to one year earlier. The biggest increases were:
- Large white A eggs: Up 71.6% or $1.01 per dozen
- Broccoli: Up 68.7% or $0.68 per pound
- Bananas: Up 38.8% or $0.19 per pound
- Separately, we tracked the five biggest price increases for items across eight categories independent of popularity: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The biggest price increases between June and July across this combined list were:
- Chinese cabbage: Up 228.2% or $0.89 to $1.28 per pound
- Chicken party wings (quick frozen): Up 189.1% or $5.03 to $7.69 per pound
- Organic cherry tomatoes: Up 172.0% or $3.44 to $5.44 per pint
- Organic cherry tomatoes: Up 159.3% or $2.39 to $3.89 per 10-ounce package
- Honeycrisp apples: Up 112.4% or $2.08 to $3.93 per two-pound bag
- We also tracked the five biggest price decreases across the same eight categories. The biggest price decreases between June and July across this combined list were:
- Rotisserie chicken leg quarter: Down 69.3% or $4.16 to $1.84 per pound
- Chayote: Down 51.8% or $0.72 to $0.67 per pound
- Swiss chard: Down 49.7% or $1.48 to $1.50 per bunch
- Apricots: Down 47.8% or $1.81 to $1.98 per pound
- D’Anjou pears: Down 45.5% or $0.66 to $0.79 per pound
Price of typical food basket down since last month, but up compared to 3 months, year ago
There was a 1.8% monthly drop in the overall cost of our curated food basket in July, a small but welcome change after years of rising prices.
Massive drops in the price of carrots (42.4%), broccoli (28.6%), whole chickens (18.5%) and zucchini (14.6%) helped offset spikes in the price of sweet corn, large white eggs, bananas and celery, all of which soared by at least 30.0%.
(Note: The list doesn’t include condiments or processed foods not tracked by the USDA or BLS.)
Typical food basket (1-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | Last month | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Corn-Sweet Each | $0.57 | $0.38 | $0.19 | 50.0% |
| Eggs | White, A, Large, Doz. | $2.42 | $1.73 | $0.69 | 39.9% |
| Fruit | Bananas Per Lb | $0.68 | $0.50 | $0.18 | 36.0% |
| Vegetables | Celery Each | $1.64 | $1.24 | $0.40 | 32.3% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.87 | $4.12 | $0.75 | 18.2% |
| Fruit | Lemons Each | $0.72 | $0.62 | $0.10 | 16.1% |
| Vegetables | Green Peppers (Bell Type) Each | $0.95 | $0.84 | $0.11 | 13.1% |
| Vegetables | Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.00 | $1.83 | $0.17 | 9.3% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $1.32 | $1.22 | $0.10 | 8.2% |
| Dairy | Milk Gallon | $3.43 | $3.20 | $0.23 | 7.2% |
| Fruit | Fuji Apples 3 Lb Bag | $3.60 | $3.38 | $0.22 | 6.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Pasta, 1 lb | $1.44 | $1.38 | $0.06 | 4.3% |
| Pantry Staple | Coffee, 1 lb | $6.25 | $5.99 | $0.26 | 4.3% |
| Meat - Beef | Ground Beef 80%-89% | $4.18 | $4.04 | $0.14 | 3.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Rice (long grain, white), 1 lb | $1.02 | $1.00 | $0.02 | 2.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (whole wheat), 1 lb | $2.78 | $2.75 | $0.03 | 1.1% |
| Pantry Staple | Flour (all purpose, white), 5 lbs | $2.88 | $2.85 | $0.03 | 1.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.87 | $2.85 | $0.02 | 0.7% |
| Pantry Staple | Sugar, 4 lbs | $4.02 | $4.00 | $0.02 | 0.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (white), 1 lb | $1.97 | $1.97 | $0.00 | 0.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Beans (dried), 1 lb | $1.68 | $1.70 | -$0.02 | -1.2% |
| Fruit | Clementines 3 Lb Bag | $5.27 | $5.73 | -$0.46 | -8.0% |
| Fruit | Juice Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $2.56 | $2.80 | -$0.24 | -8.6% |
| Meat - Pork | Sliced Bacon, 1 Lb Pkg | $5.25 | $5.80 | -$0.55 | -9.5% |
| Meat - Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack | $2.64 | $2.93 | -$0.29 | -9.9% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $3.26 | $3.63 | -$0.37 | -10.2% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.23 | $2.51 | -$0.28 | -11.2% |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers Each | $0.79 | $0.89 | -$0.10 | -11.2% |
| Meat - Pork | Deli Ham | $7.56 | $8.59 | -$1.03 | -12.0% |
| Vegetables | Zucchini Squash Per Lb | $1.35 | $1.58 | -$0.23 | -14.6% |
| Meat - Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer | $1.32 | $1.62 | -$0.30 | -18.5% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.67 | $2.34 | -$0.67 | -28.6% |
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $0.99 | $1.72 | -$0.73 | -42.4% |
| $86.18 | $87.73 | -$1.55 | -1.8% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and June 28, 2024, and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from the months of June 2024 (the latest available) and May 2024. Notes: While most of our categories are via the USDA, pantry staples are via the BLS. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
The news isn’t as good when you look a little further back. Prices were up 3.1% compared to three months prior, driven by a 62.4% jump in the cost of large white eggs and spikes of at least 30.0% for broccoli, russet potatoes and bananas. Despite the overall growth, double-digit decreases were seen in the price of chicken breasts, bacon, lettuce and carrots.
Typical food basket (3-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | 3 months prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eggs | White, A, Large, Doz. | $2.42 | $1.49 | $0.93 | 62.4% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.67 | $1.20 | $0.47 | 39.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $3.26 | $2.36 | $0.90 | 38.1% |
| Fruit | Bananas Per Lb | $0.68 | $0.52 | $0.16 | 30.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.87 | $2.27 | $0.60 | 26.4% |
| Vegetables | Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.00 | $1.59 | $0.41 | 25.8% |
| Fruit | Lemons Each | $0.72 | $0.58 | $0.14 | 24.1% |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers Each | $0.79 | $0.69 | $0.10 | 14.5% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.87 | $4.29 | $0.58 | 13.5% |
| Meat - Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer | $1.32 | $1.20 | $0.12 | 10.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (whole wheat), 1 lb | $2.78 | $2.59 | $0.19 | 7.3% |
| Vegetables | Celery Each | $1.64 | $1.54 | $0.10 | 6.5% |
| Vegetables | Corn-Sweet Each | $0.57 | $0.54 | $0.03 | 5.6% |
| Pantry Staple | Coffee, 1 lb | $6.25 | $5.96 | $0.29 | 4.9% |
| Vegetables | Green Peppers (Bell Type) Each | $0.95 | $0.91 | $0.04 | 4.4% |
| Fruit | Juice Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $2.56 | $2.50 | $0.06 | 2.4% |
| Dairy | Milk Gallon | $3.43 | $3.36 | $0.07 | 2.1% |
| Pantry Staple | Sugar, 4 lbs | $4.02 | $3.94 | $0.08 | 2.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Beans (dried), 1 lb | $1.68 | $1.65 | $0.03 | 1.8% |
| Pantry Staple | Flour (all purpose, white), 5 lbs | $2.88 | $2.83 | $0.05 | 1.8% |
| Pantry Staple | Pasta, 1 lb | $1.44 | $1.42 | $0.02 | 1.4% |
| Pantry Staple | Rice (long grain, white), 1 lb | $1.02 | $1.01 | $0.01 | 1.0% |
| Fruit | Clementines 3 Lb Bag | $5.27 | $5.28 | -$0.01 | -0.2% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (white), 1 lb | $1.97 | $2.00 | -$0.03 | -1.5% |
| Meat - Pork | Deli Ham | $7.56 | $7.79 | -$0.23 | -3.0% |
| Vegetables | Zucchini Squash Per Lb | $1.35 | $1.40 | -$0.05 | -3.6% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.23 | $2.37 | -$0.14 | -5.9% |
| Fruit | Fuji Apples 3 Lb Bag | $3.60 | $3.92 | -$0.32 | -8.2% |
| Meat - Beef | Ground Beef 80%-89% | $4.18 | $4.61 | -$0.43 | -9.3% |
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $0.99 | $1.12 | -$0.13 | -11.6% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $1.32 | $1.50 | -$0.18 | -12.0% |
| Meat - Pork | Sliced Bacon, 1 Lb Pkg | $5.25 | $6.00 | -$0.75 | -12.5% |
| Meat - Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack | $2.64 | $3.15 | -$0.51 | -16.2% |
| $86.18 | $83.58 | $2.60 | 3.1% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and April 26, 2024, and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from the months of June 2024 (the latest available) and March 2024. Notes: While most of our categories are via the USDA, pantry staples are via the BLS. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
Going back a year, prices were up 2.0%. Large white eggs (up a staggering 71.6%), broccoli (68.7%) and bananas (38.8%) saw the biggest price jumps. Conversely, celery and Fuji apples saw prices fall the most, at 27.1% and 21.2%, respectively.
Typical food basket (1-year change)
| Category | Item | Current | 1 year prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eggs | White, A, Large, Doz. | $2.42 | $1.41 | $1.01 | 71.6% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.67 | $0.99 | $0.68 | 68.7% |
| Fruit | Bananas Per Lb | $0.68 | $0.49 | $0.19 | 38.8% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.87 | $4.09 | $0.78 | 19.1% |
| Fruit | Clementines 3 Lb Bag | $5.27 | $4.60 | $0.67 | 14.6% |
| Vegetables | Corn-Sweet Each | $0.57 | $0.52 | $0.05 | 9.6% |
| Pantry Staple | Sugar, 4 lbs | $4.02 | $3.67 | $0.35 | 9.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (whole wheat), 1 lb | $2.78 | $2.56 | $0.22 | 8.6% |
| Vegetables | Green Peppers (Bell Type) Each | $0.95 | $0.88 | $0.07 | 8.0% |
| Meat - Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer | $1.32 | $1.24 | $0.08 | 6.5% |
| Meat - Beef | Ground Beef 80%-89% | $4.18 | $3.94 | $0.24 | 6.1% |
| Meat - Pork | Sliced Bacon, 1 Lb Pkg | $5.25 | $4.97 | $0.28 | 5.6% |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers Each | $0.79 | $0.75 | $0.04 | 5.3% |
| Pantry Staple | Flour (all purpose, white), 5 lbs | $2.88 | $2.76 | $0.12 | 4.3% |
| Meat - Pork | Deli Ham | $7.56 | $7.34 | $0.22 | 3.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Coffee, 1 lb | $6.25 | $6.09 | $0.16 | 2.6% |
| Pantry Staple | Rice (long grain, white), 1 lb | $1.02 | $1.00 | $0.02 | 2.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (white), 1 lb | $1.97 | $1.94 | $0.03 | 1.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.87 | $2.83 | $0.04 | 1.4% |
| Dairy | Milk Gallon | $3.43 | $3.45 | -$0.02 | -0.6% |
| Pantry Staple | Beans (dried), 1 lb | $1.68 | $1.71 | -$0.03 | -1.8% |
| Pantry Staple | Pasta, 1 lb | $1.44 | $1.47 | -$0.03 | -2.0% |
| Fruit | Juice Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $2.56 | $2.65 | -$0.09 | -3.4% |
| Meat - Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack | $2.64 | $2.76 | -$0.12 | -4.3% |
| Vegetables | Zucchini Squash Per Lb | $1.35 | $1.42 | -$0.07 | -4.9% |
| Vegetables | Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.00 | $2.12 | -$0.12 | -5.7% |
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $0.99 | $1.08 | -$0.09 | -8.3% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.23 | $2.63 | -$0.40 | -15.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $3.26 | $3.89 | -$0.63 | -16.2% |
| Fruit | Lemons Each | $0.72 | $0.86 | -$0.14 | -16.3% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $1.32 | $1.60 | -$0.28 | -17.5% |
| Fruit | Fuji Apples 3 Lb Bag | $3.60 | $4.57 | -$0.97 | -21.2% |
| Vegetables | Celery Each | $1.64 | $2.25 | -$0.61 | -27.1% |
| $86.18 | $84.53 | $1.65 | 2.0% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and July 28, 2023, and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from the months of June 2024 (the latest available) and June 2023. Notes: While most of our categories are via the USDA, pantry staples are via the BLS. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
Which individual food items saw their prices increase the most?
Going beyond the items we included in our “typical food basket,” we found triple-digit increases in several foods in just a month. (This category is a mixed look at the top five increases across eight categories.) Chinese cabbage spiked by 228.2%, while chicken wings, organic cherry tomatoes (two sizes), honeycrisp apples and organic grape-type tomatoes all saw price increases of at least 100.0%.
Biggest increases (1-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | Last month | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Chinese Cabbage Per Lb | $1.28 | $0.39 | $0.89 | 228.2% |
| Chicken | Party Wings, Iqf | $7.69 | $2.66 | $5.03 | 189.1% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cherry Type Tomatoes 1 Pint Package | $5.44 | $2.00 | $3.44 | 172.0% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cherry Type Tomatoes 10 Oz Package | $3.89 | $1.50 | $2.39 | 159.3% |
| Fruit | Honeycrisp Apples 2 Lb Bag | $3.93 | $1.85 | $2.08 | 112.4% |
| Vegetables | Organic Grape Type Tomatoes 10 Oz Package | $3.00 | $1.50 | $1.50 | 100.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | White Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $1.95 | $0.99 | $0.96 | 97.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes Per Lb | $1.27 | $0.68 | $0.59 | 86.8% |
| Pork | Rib Chops Bnls | $3.64 | $1.99 | $1.65 | 82.9% |
| Vegetables | Organic Plum Type (Roma) Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.99 | $1.69 | $1.30 | 76.9% |
| Fruit | Honeydews Per Lb | $1.40 | $0.81 | $0.59 | 72.8% |
| Fruit | Yellow Varieties Marked Extra Large Mangoes Each | $1.67 | $0.99 | $0.68 | 68.7% |
| Beef | Bnls Ribeye Roast | $13.28 | $8.19 | $5.09 | 62.1% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Iqf | $4.26 | $2.69 | $1.57 | 58.4% |
| Fruit | Organic Honeycrisp Apples Per Lb | $3.12 | $1.98 | $1.14 | 57.6% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Round Red Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $5.49 | $3.49 | $2.00 | 57.3% |
| Beef | Beef Backribs | $4.82 | $3.18 | $1.64 | 51.6% |
| Fruit | Honeydews Each | $4.03 | $2.71 | $1.32 | 48.7% |
| Dairy | Organic Sour Cream 16 oz | $4.50 | $3.03 | $1.47 | 48.5% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Block | $7.99 | $5.49 | $2.50 | 45.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round White Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $3.99 | $2.80 | $1.19 | 42.5% |
| Eggs | White, A, Large, Doz. | $2.42 | $1.73 | $0.69 | 39.9% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Gallon | $4.20 | $3.11 | $1.09 | 35.0% |
| Chicken | Fried/Baked Bone-In Wings | $7.43 | $5.51 | $1.92 | 34.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes Per Lb | $0.96 | $0.72 | $0.24 | 33.3% |
| Pork | Spareribs | $3.57 | $2.70 | $0.87 | 32.2% |
| Pork | Picnic Fresh B/In | $2.04 | $1.55 | $0.49 | 31.6% |
| Beef | Sirloin Steak | $7.84 | $5.99 | $1.85 | 30.9% |
| Beef | Bottom Round Roast | $6.23 | $4.90 | $1.33 | 27.1% |
| Chicken | Fried/Baked Breast Tenders | $7.78 | $6.16 | $1.62 | 26.3% |
| Dairy | Butter 8 oz | $3.37 | $2.68 | $0.69 | 25.7% |
| Dairy | Cheese 2 lb Block | $7.84 | $6.30 | $1.54 | 24.4% |
| Pork | Ham Steak | $5.43 | $4.49 | $0.94 | 20.9% |
| Pork | Pulled Pork | $6.36 | $5.27 | $1.09 | 20.7% |
| Chicken | Leg Quarters, Tray Pack | $1.32 | $1.11 | $0.21 | 18.9% |
| Beef | Tri-Tip | $8.43 | $7.11 | $1.32 | 18.6% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, White, Large | $4.99 | $4.64 | $0.35 | 7.5% |
| Eggs | Omega-3, White, Large | $2.75 | $2.59 | $0.16 | 6.2% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and June 28, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest increases — assuming a given category had five items that increased in price — across eight categories: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
Going back three months, chicken wings — up 192.4% — saw the biggest increase, though the 172.0% increase in bone-in pork loin wasn’t far behind. Four other products saw increases of 100.0% or more.
Biggest increases (3-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | 3 months prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Party Wings, Iqf | $7.69 | $2.63 | $5.06 | 192.4% |
| Pork | Bone-In Cc Loin | $3.89 | $1.43 | $2.46 | 172.0% |
| Fruit | Juice Marked Cider Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $3.24 | $1.50 | $1.74 | 116.0% |
| Fruit | Blackberries 1 Pint (11-12 Oz Cntr W/ Lid) | $6.28 | $2.99 | $3.29 | 110.0% |
| Fruit | Honeycrisp Apples 2 Lb Bag | $3.93 | $1.92 | $2.01 | 104.7% |
| Fruit | Organic Yellow Varieties Mangoes Each | $2.00 | $1.00 | $1.00 | 100.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry 5 Lb Bag | $4.99 | $2.50 | $2.49 | 99.6% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $6.19 | $3.39 | $2.80 | 82.6% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cherry Type Tomatoes 1 Pint Package | $5.44 | $2.99 | $2.45 | 81.9% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cauliflower Per Lb | $1.80 | $0.99 | $0.81 | 81.8% |
| Fruit | Hayward Kiwifruit 1-Lb Containers With Lids | $3.78 | $2.21 | $1.57 | 71.0% |
| Vegetables | Kabocha Squash Per Lb | $1.29 | $0.77 | $0.52 | 67.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Russet Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $4.99 | $3.01 | $1.98 | 65.8% |
| Vegetables | Cremini Mushrooms 8 Oz Package | $2.48 | $1.52 | $0.96 | 63.2% |
| Eggs | White, A, Large, Doz. | $2.42 | $1.49 | $0.93 | 62.4% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless Marinated | $5.10 | $3.19 | $1.91 | 59.9% |
| Pork | Spareribs | $3.57 | $2.26 | $1.31 | 58.0% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cucumbers Each | $1.56 | $0.99 | $0.57 | 57.6% |
| Beef | Sirloin Roast | $8.89 | $5.78 | $3.11 | 53.8% |
| Beef | Filet Mignon | $19.81 | $12.99 | $6.82 | 52.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry Per Lb | $1.48 | $0.99 | $0.49 | 49.5% |
| Beef | Sirloin Steak | $7.84 | $5.49 | $2.35 | 42.8% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, White, Large | $4.99 | $3.55 | $1.44 | 40.6% |
| Pork | Ham, B/In Shank | $1.39 | $0.99 | $0.40 | 40.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $3.26 | $2.36 | $0.90 | 38.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $5.49 | $3.98 | $1.51 | 37.9% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Iqf | $4.26 | $3.18 | $1.08 | 34.0% |
| Dairy | Milk Half Gallon | $2.40 | $1.84 | $0.56 | 30.4% |
| Pork | Tenderloin, Fresh | $4.01 | $3.13 | $0.88 | 28.1% |
| Chicken | Specialty Leg Quarters, Tray Pack | $1.66 | $1.32 | $0.34 | 25.8% |
| Dairy | Organic Cream Cheese 8 oz | $4.21 | $3.35 | $0.86 | 25.7% |
| Pork | Picnic Fresh B/In | $2.04 | $1.66 | $0.38 | 22.9% |
| Chicken | Organic Thighs, Boneless/Skinless | $6.99 | $5.69 | $1.30 | 22.8% |
| Beef | Bnls New York Strip Steak | $14.46 | $11.80 | $2.66 | 22.5% |
| Dairy | Organic Yogurt 32 oz | $4.99 | $4.08 | $0.91 | 22.3% |
| Beef | Beef Backribs | $4.82 | $3.96 | $0.86 | 21.7% |
| Dairy | Organic Yogurt 4-6 oz | $1.61 | $1.35 | $0.26 | 19.3% |
| Eggs | Omega-3, White, Large | $2.75 | $2.47 | $0.28 | 11.3% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and April 26, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest increases — assuming a given category had five items that increased in price — across eight categories: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
When comparing today’s prices to those of a year ago, chicken wings again led the way, up 216.5%. That was by far the biggest increase, though cage-free large white eggs (159.9%), organic large white eggs (125.2%), seeded watermelons (117.2%) and red cabbage (101.4%) all saw spikes of at least 100.0%.
Biggest increases (1-year change)
| Category | Item | Current | 1 year prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Party Wings, Iqf | $7.69 | $2.43 | $5.26 | 216.5% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, White, Large | $4.99 | $1.92 | $3.07 | 159.9% |
| Eggs | Organic, White, Large | $5.99 | $2.66 | $3.33 | 125.2% |
| Fruit | Red Flesh Seeded Type Watermelons Per Lb | $0.63 | $0.29 | $0.34 | 117.2% |
| Vegetables | Red Type Cabbage Per Lb | $1.49 | $0.74 | $0.75 | 101.4% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cucumbers Each | $1.56 | $0.79 | $0.77 | 97.5% |
| Chicken | Thighs, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack | $3.33 | $1.69 | $1.64 | 97.0% |
| Vegetables | Organic Sweet Potatoes Per Lb | $1.99 | $1.01 | $0.98 | 97.0% |
| Pork | Ham, B/In | $3.29 | $1.69 | $1.60 | 94.7% |
| Fruit | Honeydews Per Lb | $1.40 | $0.73 | $0.67 | 91.8% |
| Eggs | White, A, Large, Doz. | $2.42 | $1.41 | $1.01 | 71.6% |
| Fruit | Juice Marked Cider Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $3.24 | $1.89 | $1.35 | 71.4% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Block | $7.99 | $4.71 | $3.28 | 69.6% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.67 | $0.99 | $0.68 | 68.7% |
| Vegetables | Carrots Per Lb | $0.84 | $0.51 | $0.33 | 64.7% |
| Fruit | Pink Lady/Cripps Pink Apples 2 Lb Bag | $2.98 | $1.93 | $1.05 | 54.4% |
| Pork | Smoked Chops | $7.91 | $5.13 | $2.78 | 54.2% |
| Beef | Top Round Roast | $6.29 | $4.19 | $2.10 | 50.1% |
| Fruit | Organic Bananas Per Lb | $0.95 | $0.64 | $0.31 | 48.4% |
| Pork | Feet | $2.18 | $1.49 | $0.69 | 46.3% |
| Chicken | Specialty Leg Quarters, Tray Pack | $1.66 | $1.14 | $0.52 | 45.6% |
| Pork | Spareribs | $3.57 | $2.48 | $1.09 | 44.0% |
| Pork | Ham Steak | $5.43 | $3.79 | $1.64 | 43.3% |
| Chicken | Whole Wings | $3.22 | $2.25 | $0.97 | 43.1% |
| Chicken | Organic Drumsticks | $4.99 | $3.58 | $1.41 | 39.4% |
| Beef | Bnls New York Strip Steak | $14.46 | $10.76 | $3.70 | 34.4% |
| Beef | London Broil | $6.46 | $4.89 | $1.57 | 32.1% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Gallon | $4.20 | $3.23 | $0.97 | 30.0% |
| Beef | Filet Mignon | $19.81 | $15.35 | $4.46 | 29.1% |
| Beef | Rump Roast | $5.85 | $4.63 | $1.22 | 26.3% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Half Gallon | $2.33 | $1.86 | $0.47 | 25.3% |
| Dairy | Cheese 2 lb Shred | $8.29 | $6.63 | $1.66 | 25.0% |
| Dairy | Organic Yogurt 4-6 oz | $1.61 | $1.30 | $0.31 | 23.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $1.87 | $1.54 | $0.33 | 21.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $5.49 | $4.71 | $0.78 | 16.6% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $3.72 | $3.24 | $0.48 | 14.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | White Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $1.95 | $1.72 | $0.23 | 13.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Round Red Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $5.49 | $4.98 | $0.51 | 10.2% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and July 28, 2023. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest increases — assuming a given category had five items that increased in price — across eight categories: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
Which individual food items saw their prices decrease the most?
While many products saw their prices skyrocket in recent months, plenty of others went the opposite direction, including two that saw decreases of more than 50.0% in just a month. Rotisserie chicken leg quarters fell 69.3% during that period, while a vegetable called chayote saw its price drop by 51.8%. Meanwhile, the prices of 10 other items fell by at least 40.0%.
Biggest decreases (1-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | Last month | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Rotisserie Leg Quarter | $1.84 | $6.00 | -$4.16 | -69.3% |
| Vegetables | Chayote Per Lb | $0.67 | $1.39 | -$0.72 | -51.8% |
| Vegetables | Swiss Chard Per Bunch | $1.50 | $2.98 | -$1.48 | -49.7% |
| Fruit | Apricots Per Lb | $1.98 | $3.79 | -$1.81 | -47.8% |
| Fruit | D'Anjou Pears Per Lb | $0.79 | $1.45 | -$0.66 | -45.5% |
| Pork | Rib End Chops B/In | $1.91 | $3.49 | -$1.58 | -45.3% |
| Vegetables | Artichokes Each | $2.74 | $4.99 | -$2.25 | -45.1% |
| Vegetables | Organic Baby Peeled Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $1.49 | $2.66 | -$1.17 | -44.0% |
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $0.99 | $1.72 | -$0.73 | -42.4% |
| Fruit | Lemons Per Lb | $0.57 | $0.99 | -$0.42 | -42.4% |
| Fruit | Cantaloupes Per Lb | $0.54 | $0.93 | -$0.39 | -41.9% |
| Fruit | Organic Red Flesh Seedless Type Watermelons Per Lb | $0.55 | $0.94 | -$0.39 | -41.5% |
| Pork | Assorted Chops B/In | $2.09 | $3.43 | -$1.34 | -39.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.50 | $3.99 | -$1.49 | -37.3% |
| Eggs | Liquid Egg, Large Carton | $3.75 | $5.41 | -$1.66 | -30.7% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $0.99 | $1.42 | -$0.43 | -30.3% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Half Gallon | $2.33 | $3.33 | -$1.00 | -30.0% |
| Dairy | Organic Greek Yogurt 32 oz | $4.65 | $6.41 | -$1.76 | -27.5% |
| Chicken | Organic Breast, Boneless/Skinless | $5.90 | $8.00 | -$2.10 | -26.3% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $2.03 | $2.75 | -$0.72 | -26.2% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Sliced | $2.68 | $3.62 | -$0.94 | -26.0% |
| Beef | Skirt Steak | $8.39 | $11.32 | -$2.93 | -25.9% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Red Onions, Dry Per Lb | $1.23 | $1.65 | -$0.42 | -25.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round Red Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $2.17 | $2.91 | -$0.74 | -25.4% |
| Beef | Tenderloin | $11.96 | $15.85 | -$3.89 | -24.5% |
| Pork | Sirloin Chops Bnls | $2.71 | $3.58 | -$0.87 | -24.3% |
| Pork | St. Louis Style Spareribs | $2.24 | $2.90 | -$0.66 | -22.8% |
| Pork | Loin Roast Bnls | $2.04 | $2.61 | -$0.57 | -21.8% |
| Chicken | Specialty Thighs | $1.88 | $2.40 | -$0.52 | -21.7% |
| Beef | Brisket | $3.97 | $5.06 | -$1.09 | -21.5% |
| Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer | $1.32 | $1.62 | -$0.30 | -18.5% |
| Chicken | Fried/Baked Boneless Wings | $5.49 | $6.73 | -$1.24 | -18.4% |
| Beef | Filet Mignon | $19.81 | $23.36 | -$3.55 | -15.2% |
| Beef | Brisket, Flat | $8.51 | $9.99 | -$1.48 | -14.8% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.23 | $2.51 | -$0.28 | -11.2% |
| Eggs | Organic, Brown, Large | $3.99 | $4.46 | -$0.47 | -10.5% |
| Dairy | Greek Yogurt 4-6 oz | $1.03 | $1.15 | -$0.12 | -10.4% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, Brown, Large | $3.13 | $3.15 | -$0.02 | -0.6% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, White, Extra Large | $3.99 | $4.00 | -$0.01 | -0.2% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and June 28, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest decreases — assuming a given category had five items that decreased in price — across eight categories: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
Going back three months, rotisserie chicken leg quarters led the way again, falling 69.3%. Not far behind were d’Anjou pears (55.9%) and russet potatoes (54.8%). In all, 22 items saw decreases of at least 30.0%.
Biggest decreases (3-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | 3 months prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Rotisserie Leg Quarter | $1.84 | $6.00 | -$4.16 | -69.3% |
| Fruit | D'Anjou Pears Per Lb | $0.79 | $1.79 | -$1.00 | -55.9% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $0.99 | $2.19 | -$1.20 | -54.8% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cilantro Per Bunch | $0.99 | $1.87 | -$0.88 | -47.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.50 | $4.68 | -$2.18 | -46.6% |
| Fruit | Various Yellow Flesh Varieties Peaches Per Lb | $2.09 | $3.69 | -$1.60 | -43.4% |
| Fruit | Limes Per Lb | $0.67 | $1.18 | -$0.51 | -43.2% |
| Eggs | Liquid Egg, Large Carton | $3.75 | $6.07 | -$2.32 | -38.2% |
| Vegetables | Onions, Green Per Bunch | $0.66 | $1.06 | -$0.40 | -37.7% |
| Fruit | Blueberries 1 Pint (11-12 Oz Cntr W/ Lid) | $2.34 | $3.72 | -$1.38 | -37.1% |
| Beef | Bnls Ribeye Steak | $12.29 | $19.47 | -$7.18 | -36.9% |
| Fruit | Organic Fuji Apples 2 Lb Bag | $2.99 | $4.72 | -$1.73 | -36.7% |
| Vegetables | Tomatillos Per Lb | $0.98 | $1.52 | -$0.54 | -35.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Red Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $1.95 | $2.99 | -$1.04 | -34.8% |
| Beef | Flat Iron Steak | $8.01 | $11.99 | -$3.98 | -33.2% |
| Vegetables | Plum Type (Roma) Tomatoes Per Lb | $1.00 | $1.49 | -$0.49 | -32.9% |
| Vegetables | Beets Per Bunch | $2.67 | $3.96 | -$1.29 | -32.6% |
| Pork | Rib End Chops B/In | $1.91 | $2.82 | -$0.91 | -32.3% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.50 | $3.69 | -$1.19 | -32.2% |
| Pork | Assorted Chops B/In | $2.09 | $3.06 | -$0.97 | -31.7% |
| Onions & Potatoes | White Onions, Dry Per Lb | $0.75 | $1.09 | -$0.34 | -31.2% |
| Chicken | Rotisserie Whole, 2.1-3.0 Lbs. | $6.21 | $8.96 | -$2.75 | -30.7% |
| Dairy | Organic Greek Yogurt 32 oz | $4.65 | $6.55 | -$1.90 | -29.0% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Sliced | $2.68 | $3.76 | -$1.08 | -28.7% |
| Chicken | Organic Breast, Boneless/Skinless | $5.90 | $7.78 | -$1.88 | -24.2% |
| Pork | Neckbones | $2.08 | $2.71 | -$0.63 | -23.2% |
| Eggs | Organic, Brown, Large | $3.99 | $5.19 | -$1.20 | -23.1% |
| Pork | St. Louis Style Spareribs | $2.24 | $2.90 | -$0.66 | -22.8% |
| Beef | Skirt Steak | $8.39 | $10.68 | -$2.29 | -21.4% |
| Pork | Rib Chops Bnls | $3.64 | $4.58 | -$0.94 | -20.5% |
| Beef | Tenderloin | $11.96 | $14.55 | -$2.59 | -17.8% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack | $2.64 | $3.15 | -$0.51 | -16.2% |
| Dairy | Yogurt 32 oz | $2.93 | $3.48 | -$0.55 | -15.8% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Gallon | $4.20 | $4.98 | -$0.78 | -15.7% |
| Chicken | Specialty Thighs, Boneless/Skinless | $4.23 | $4.96 | -$0.73 | -14.7% |
| Dairy | Cheese 2 lb Shred | $8.29 | $9.54 | -$1.25 | -13.1% |
| Beef | Porterhouse Steak | $9.83 | $11.01 | -$1.18 | -10.7% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, Brown, Large | $3.13 | $3.42 | -$0.29 | -8.5% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and April 26, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest decreases — assuming a given category had five items that decreased in price — across eight categories: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
Looking back a year, we see a similar 21 items whose prices fell by at least 30.0%. Topping the list: d’Anjou pears (54.3%) and organic limes (52.0%).
Biggest decreases (1-year change)
| Category | Item | Current | 1 year prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruit | D'Anjou Pears Per Lb | $0.79 | $1.73 | -$0.94 | -54.3% |
| Fruit | Organic Limes Each | $0.48 | $1.00 | -$0.52 | -52.0% |
| Fruit | Organic Red Flesh Seedless Type Watermelons Per Lb | $0.55 | $0.98 | -$0.43 | -43.9% |
| Vegetables | Serrano Peppers Per Lb | $1.20 | $2.07 | -$0.87 | -42.0% |
| Pork | Ham, B/In Shank | $1.39 | $2.34 | -$0.95 | -40.6% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes 10 Lb Bag | $2.99 | $4.99 | -$2.00 | -40.1% |
| Eggs | Liquid Egg, Large Carton | $3.75 | $6.18 | -$2.43 | -39.3% |
| Vegetables | Bok Choy Per Lb | $0.99 | $1.63 | -$0.64 | -39.3% |
| Eggs | White, A, Large, 1.5 Doz. | $2.99 | $4.82 | -$1.83 | -38.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.50 | $3.99 | -$1.49 | -37.3% |
| Fruit | Organic Honeycrisp Apples Per Lb | $3.12 | $4.97 | -$1.85 | -37.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 10 Lb Bag | $2.86 | $4.51 | -$1.65 | -36.6% |
| Fruit | Granny Smith Apples Per Lb | $1.44 | $2.26 | -$0.82 | -36.3% |
| Vegetables | Organic Beets Per Bunch | $1.72 | $2.69 | -$0.97 | -36.1% |
| Pork | Bone-In Cc Loin | $3.89 | $6.03 | -$2.14 | -35.5% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Sliced | $2.68 | $3.99 | -$1.31 | -32.8% |
| Vegetables | Portobello Mushrooms 6 Oz Package | $2.54 | $3.74 | -$1.20 | -32.1% |
| Vegetables | Organic Baby Peeled Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $1.49 | $2.18 | -$0.69 | -31.7% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $2.03 | $2.94 | -$0.91 | -31.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry Per Lb | $1.59 | $2.29 | -$0.70 | -30.6% |
| Eggs | Cage-Free, Brown, Large | $3.13 | $4.49 | -$1.36 | -30.3% |
| Chicken | Breast Tenders, Iqf | $2.81 | $3.93 | -$1.12 | -28.5% |
| Beef | Bone-In Strip Steak | $7.67 | $10.69 | -$3.02 | -28.3% |
| Chicken | Rotisserie Whole, 2.1-3.0 Lbs. | $6.21 | $8.55 | -$2.34 | -27.4% |
| Pork | St. Louis Style Spareribs | $2.24 | $3.08 | -$0.84 | -27.3% |
| Pork | Deli Cooked Spareribs | $7.21 | $9.71 | -$2.50 | -25.7% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Shred | $3.93 | $5.28 | -$1.35 | -25.6% |
| Dairy | Organic Greek Yogurt 32 oz | $4.65 | $6.17 | -$1.52 | -24.6% |
| Chicken | Fried/Baked Boneless Wings | $5.49 | $7.25 | -$1.76 | -24.3% |
| Pork | Assorted Chops B/In | $2.09 | $2.67 | -$0.58 | -21.7% |
| Chicken | Cornish | $2.60 | $3.21 | -$0.61 | -19.0% |
| Beef | Skirt Steak | $8.39 | $10.17 | -$1.78 | -17.5% |
| Dairy | Milk Half Gallon | $2.40 | $2.85 | -$0.45 | -15.8% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.23 | $2.63 | -$0.40 | -15.2% |
| Chicken | Specialty Thighs | $1.88 | $2.21 | -$0.33 | -14.9% |
| Eggs | Organic, Brown, Large | $3.99 | $4.39 | -$0.40 | -9.1% |
| Beef | Flank Steak | $8.37 | $9.20 | -$0.83 | -9.0% |
| Beef | Porterhouse Steak | $9.83 | $10.73 | -$0.90 | -8.4% |
| Eggs | Omega-3, White, Large | $2.75 | $2.99 | -$0.24 | -8.0% |
| Beef | T-Bone Steak | $9.07 | $9.79 | -$0.72 | -7.4% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from July 26, 2024 (the latest available), and July 28, 2023. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest decreases — assuming a given category had five items that decreased in price — across eight categories: beef, chicken, dairy, eggs, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables. The current price for eggs is from the July 19 report, as this product wasn’t included in the July 26 report.
How to get a handle on your grocery costs
Life is expensive in 2024, and groceries are no exception. Even if inflation completely vanished tomorrow, that would still be the case. That makes it more important than ever that you do what you can to control your grocery store expenses.
That can be easier said than done. How can you help yourself? Here are a few tips.
- Shop around. It’s old, cliched advice, but it’s still some of the best grocery advice you can receive. Where you buy can make a significant difference in the price you pay. If you don’t at least take the time to consider other stores, you’re doing yourself a disservice. That doesn’t mean you need to drive across town to save three cents on a d’Anjou pear, but you should go beyond your primary grocery store occasionally.
- Leverage credit card rewards. The right credit card, used wisely, can help you extend your grocery budget. If you want to keep it simple, a cash back card that gives you 1.5% or 2% on everything you buy can serve you well. If you’re looking for more savings, consider seeking cards that give extra rewards on grocery purchases. There are loads of options if you take the time to look.
- Make lists. This one simple action can make a real difference in your grocery bill. Going shopping with a list can change the whole vibe of the trip. You’ll no longer aimlessly seek inspiration; rather, you’ll have a specific mission and focus. That mindset can make you less susceptible to impulse purchases, which can wreck a budget.
- Apps, coupons and store brands, oh my! Deals and discounts are available if you know where to look. Mobile apps can help you find bargains. Online coupons or even the old-school paper ones can save you real money. And a willingness to forsake name brands for store brands or generics — or organic foods for nonorganics — can, too. These methods may require a little bit of legwork and searching, but they can have a real impact if you’re willing to put in the effort.
Methodology
Prices for dairy, eggs, fruit, meats (beef, chicken and pork), onions and potatoes, and vegetables are collected from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) weekly retail reports. Except where otherwise noted, reports are for the week ending on the last Friday of the previous month. For example, current prices for our Food Cost Report published in August are from the USDA retail report dated the last Friday in July, the one-month comparison is from the report dated the last Friday in June, the three-month comparison is from the report dated the last Friday in April and the one-year comparison is from the report dated the last Friday of July in the prior calendar year.
Dry pantry items included in our typical food basket are via the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) monthly “Average Retail Food and Energy Prices, U.S. City Average” report. These reports are typically a calendar month behind the USDA reports. For example, current prices for our Food Cost Report published in August are from the BLS report dated June, the one-month comparison is from the report dated May, the three-month comparison is from the report dated March and the one-year comparison is from the report dated June of the prior calendar year.
Some items may not be included in every USDA retail report. For our typical food basket, increases and decreases, we would use the prior week’s report for the missing item or items.