LendingTree Food Cost Report
It cost 2.0% less to buy a typical basket of groceries in December than a month earlier, according to a LendingTree analysis of 32 commonly purchased items. Prices are 2.6% lower than three months ago but unchanged from 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 2.0% or $1.49 (from $76.36 to $74.87) between November and December. The biggest decreases in our sample basket were:
- Russet potatoes: Down 30.5% or $0.97 per five-pound bag
- Fuji apples: Down 25.2% or $0.78 per three-pound bag
- Fresh conventional boneless/skinless chicken breast: Down 16.8% or $0.57 per regular pack
- The overall cost of that same basket was down 2.6% or $2.00 (from $76.87 to $74.87) compared to three months earlier. The biggest decreases were:
- Fuji apples: Down 38.1% or $1.43 per three-pound bag
- Green-leaf lettuce: Down 37.3% or $0.56 each
- Clementines: Down 26.2% or $1.40 per three-pound bag
- The overall cost of that same basket was unchanged (up $0.01 from $74.86 to $74.87) compared to one year earlier. The biggest increases were:
- Tomatoes: Up 55.4% or $1.02 per pound
- Carrots: Up 44.9% or $0.35 per one-pound bag
- Green bell peppers: Up 28.8% or $0.21 each
- Separately, we tracked the 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 November and December across this combined list were:
- Mustard: Up 178.2% or $1.39 to $2.17 per pound
- Turnip tops: Up 176.9% or $1.38 to $2.16 per pound
- Honeycrisp apples: Up 144.8% or $2.36 to $3.99 per two-pound bag
- Tangerines/mandarins: Up 144.4% or $2.08 to $3.52 per pound
- Organic beets: Up 122.7% or $1.84 to $3.34 per bunch
- We also tracked the biggest price decreases across the same eight categories. The biggest price decreases between November and December across this combined list were:
- Persimmons: Down 68.0% or $1.04 to $0.49 per pound
- Antibiotic-free chicken legs: Down 62.7% or $2.50 to $1.49 per regular pack
- Bok choy: Down 62.1% or $1.23 to $0.75 per pound
- Organic eggnog: Down 55.0% or $7.33 to $5.99 per 32-ounce package
- Pink Lady/Cripps Pink apples: Down 52.1% or $2.08 to $1.91 per three-pound bag
Price of typical food basket down from last month and 3 months ago but unchanged from last year
There was a 2.0% monthly decrease in the overall cost of our curated food basket in December.
Massive decreases in the price of russet potatoes (30.5%) and Fuji apples (25.2%) helped offset jumps in the price of green peppers (22.1%) and carrots (20.2%).
(Note: The list doesn’t include condiments or processed foods not tracked by the USDA or BLS.)
Popular food basket (1-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | Last month | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Green Peppers (Bell Type) Each | $0.94 | $0.77 | $0.17 | 22.1% |
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $1.13 | $0.94 | $0.19 | 20.2% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.24 | $3.60 | $0.64 | 17.8% |
| Meat - Beef | Ground Beef 80-89% | $4.69 | $3.99 | $0.70 | 17.5% |
| Vegetables | Corn-Sweet Each | $0.69 | $0.59 | $0.10 | 16.9% |
| Vegetables | Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.86 | $2.51 | $0.35 | 13.9% |
| Vegetables | Celery Each | $1.44 | $1.34 | $0.10 | 7.5% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.49 | $1.42 | $0.07 | 4.9% |
| Fruit | Bananas Per Lb | $0.54 | $0.52 | $0.02 | 3.8% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $0.94 | $0.91 | $0.03 | 3.3% |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers Each | $0.67 | $0.65 | $0.02 | 3.1% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (whole wheat), 1 lb | $2.80 | $2.72 | $0.08 | 2.9% |
| Fruit | Juice Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $2.67 | $2.63 | $0.04 | 1.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Pasta, 1 lb | $1.38 | $1.37 | $0.01 | 0.7% |
| Pantry Staple | Beans (dried), 1 lb | $1.66 | $1.65 | $0.01 | 0.6% |
| Vegetables | Zucchini Squash Per Lb | $1.44 | $1.44 | $0.00 | 0.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (white), 1 lb | $1.91 | $1.92 | -$0.01 | -0.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Flour (all purpose, white), 5 lbs | $2.74 | $2.76 | -$0.02 | -0.7% |
| Pantry Staple | Sugar, 4 lbs | $3.97 | $4.00 | -$0.03 | -0.7% |
| Pantry Staple | Coffee, 1 lb | $6.78 | $6.87 | -$0.09 | -1.3% |
| Dairy | Milk Gallon | $3.40 | $3.46 | -$0.06 | -1.7% |
| Fruit | Lemons Each | $0.55 | $0.56 | -$0.01 | -1.8% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.63 | $2.69 | -$0.06 | -2.2% |
| Pantry Staple | Rice (long grain, white), 1 lb | $1.03 | $1.06 | -$0.03 | -2.8% |
| Meat - Pork | Sliced Bacon | $5.27 | $5.49 | -$0.23 | -4.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.33 | $2.44 | -$0.11 | -4.5% |
| Meat - Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer, Fresh, Conventional | $1.61 | $1.73 | -$0.12 | -6.9% |
| Eggs | Large White, 12, Fresh, Conventional | $1.77 | $1.97 | -$0.20 | -10.2% |
| Fruit | Clementines 3 Lb Bag | $3.94 | $4.68 | -$0.74 | -15.8% |
| Meat - Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.83 | $3.40 | -$0.57 | -16.8% |
| Fruit | Fuji Apples 3 Lb Bag | $2.32 | $3.10 | -$0.78 | -25.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $2.21 | $3.18 | -$0.97 | -30.5% |
| $74.87 | $76.36 | -$1.49 | -2.0% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Nov. 29, 2024, and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from the months of December 2024 (the latest available) and November 2024. Notes: While most of our categories are via the USDA, pantry staples are via the BLS. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024.
The news is even better when you look a little further back. Prices are down 2.6% compared to three months prior, driven by large decreases in Fuji apples (down 38.1%), green-leaf lettuce (37.3%) and clementines (26.2%). Carrots (up 61.4%) and tomatoes (40.2%) saw the biggest increases, while four other products saw double-digit increases.
Popular food basket (3-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | 3 months prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $1.13 | $0.70 | $0.43 | 61.4% |
| Vegetables | Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.86 | $2.04 | $0.82 | 40.2% |
| Vegetables | Green Peppers (Bell Type) Each | $0.94 | $0.77 | $0.17 | 22.1% |
| Vegetables | Corn-Sweet Each | $0.69 | $0.58 | $0.11 | 19.0% |
| Meat - Beef | Ground Beef 80-89% | $4.69 | $3.99 | $0.70 | 17.5% |
| Eggs | Large White, 12, Fresh, Conventional | $1.77 | $1.55 | $0.22 | 14.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.33 | $2.18 | $0.15 | 6.9% |
| Meat - Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer, Fresh, Conventional | $1.61 | $1.51 | $0.10 | 6.6% |
| Fruit | Bananas Per Lb | $0.54 | $0.51 | $0.03 | 5.9% |
| Vegetables | Celery Each | $1.44 | $1.36 | $0.08 | 5.9% |
| Dairy | Milk Gallon | $3.40 | $3.23 | $0.17 | 5.3% |
| Pantry Staple | Coffee, 1 lb | $6.78 | $6.47 | $0.31 | 4.8% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (whole wheat), 1 lb | $2.80 | $2.75 | $0.05 | 1.8% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.24 | $4.24 | $0.00 | 0.0% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.49 | $1.49 | $0.00 | 0.0% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.63 | $2.66 | -$0.03 | -1.1% |
| Pantry Staple | Sugar, 4 lbs | $3.97 | $4.03 | -$0.06 | -1.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Beans (dried), 1 lb | $1.66 | $1.71 | -$0.05 | -2.9% |
| Pantry Staple | Pasta, 1 lb | $1.38 | $1.43 | -$0.05 | -3.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (white), 1 lb | $1.91 | $1.98 | -$0.07 | -3.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Flour (all purpose, white), 5 lbs | $2.74 | $2.87 | -$0.13 | -4.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Rice (long grain, white), 1 lb | $1.03 | $1.08 | -$0.05 | -4.6% |
| Vegetables | Zucchini Squash Per Lb | $1.44 | $1.51 | -$0.07 | -4.6% |
| Meat - Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.83 | $2.97 | -$0.14 | -4.7% |
| Meat - Pork | Sliced Bacon | $5.27 | $5.59 | -$0.32 | -5.7% |
| Fruit | Juice Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $2.67 | $2.88 | -$0.21 | -7.3% |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers Each | $0.67 | $0.73 | -$0.06 | -8.2% |
| Fruit | Lemons Each | $0.55 | $0.68 | -$0.13 | -19.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $2.21 | $2.79 | -$0.58 | -20.8% |
| Fruit | Clementines 3 Lb Bag | $3.94 | $5.34 | -$1.40 | -26.2% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $0.94 | $1.50 | -$0.56 | -37.3% |
| Fruit | Fuji Apples 3 Lb Bag | $2.32 | $3.75 | -$1.43 | -38.1% |
| $74.87 | $76.87 | -$2.00 | -2.6% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Sept. 27, 2024, and U.S. BLS data from the months of December 2024 (the latest available) and September 2024. Notes: While most of our categories are via the USDA, pantry staples are via the BLS. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024. Three-month egg prices are from Oct. 4, 2024.
Going back a year, the news isn’t as good, with prices unchanged, up just $0.01 or 0.0%. Tomatoes (55.4%) and carrots (44.9%) saw the biggest price increases, while three other products saw jumps of at least 10.0%. Conversely, green-leaf lettuce, russet potatoes, lemons and Fuji apples all saw decreases of at least 20.0%.
Popular food basket (1-year change)
| Category | Item | Current | 1 year prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Tomatoes Per Lb | $2.86 | $1.84 | $1.02 | 55.4% |
| Vegetables | Carrots 1 Lb Bag | $1.13 | $0.78 | $0.35 | 44.9% |
| Vegetables | Green Peppers (Bell Type) Each | $0.94 | $0.73 | $0.21 | 28.8% |
| Meat - Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer, Fresh, Conventional | $1.61 | $1.31 | $0.30 | 22.9% |
| Pantry Staple | Coffee, 1 lb | $6.78 | $6.09 | $0.69 | 11.3% |
| Vegetables | Broccoli Per Lb | $1.49 | $1.38 | $0.11 | 8.0% |
| Dairy | Milk Gallon | $3.40 | $3.15 | $0.25 | 7.9% |
| Meat - Beef | Ground Beef 80-89% | $4.69 | $4.40 | $0.29 | 6.6% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (whole wheat), 1 lb | $2.80 | $2.65 | $0.15 | 5.7% |
| Fruit | Juice Apples, Processed 64 Oz (1/2 Gallon) | $2.67 | $2.55 | $0.12 | 4.7% |
| Vegetables | Corn-Sweet Each | $0.69 | $0.66 | $0.03 | 4.5% |
| Pantry Staple | Beans (dried), 1 lb | $1.66 | $1.59 | $0.07 | 4.4% |
| Pantry Staple | Rice (long grain, white), 1 lb | $1.03 | $0.99 | $0.04 | 4.0% |
| Pantry Staple | Sugar, 4 lbs | $3.97 | $3.82 | $0.15 | 3.9% |
| Vegetables | Zucchini Squash Per Lb | $1.44 | $1.39 | $0.05 | 3.6% |
| Vegetables | Celery Each | $1.44 | $1.40 | $0.04 | 2.9% |
| Pantry Staple | Flour (all purpose, white), 5 lbs | $2.74 | $2.69 | $0.05 | 1.9% |
| Vegetables | Cucumbers Each | $0.67 | $0.66 | $0.01 | 1.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $2.33 | $2.30 | $0.03 | 1.3% |
| Pantry Staple | Pasta, 1 lb | $1.38 | $1.38 | $0.00 | 0.0% |
| Meat - Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.83 | $2.88 | -$0.05 | -1.7% |
| Fruit | Bananas Per Lb | $0.54 | $0.56 | -$0.02 | -3.6% |
| Pantry Staple | Bread loaf (white), 1 lb | $1.91 | $2.02 | -$0.11 | -5.4% |
| Fruit | Clementines 3 Lb Bag | $3.94 | $4.22 | -$0.28 | -6.6% |
| Meat - Pork | Sliced Bacon | $5.27 | $5.76 | -$0.49 | -8.6% |
| Dairy | Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $2.63 | $2.92 | -$0.29 | -9.9% |
| Eggs | Large White, 12, Fresh, Conventional | $1.77 | $2.00 | -$0.23 | -11.5% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.24 | $4.80 | -$0.56 | -11.7% |
| Fruit | Fuji Apples 3 Lb Bag | $2.32 | $2.95 | -$0.63 | -21.4% |
| Fruit | Lemons Each | $0.55 | $0.71 | -$0.16 | -22.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $2.21 | $2.86 | -$0.65 | -22.7% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $0.94 | $1.42 | -$0.48 | -33.8% |
| $74.87 | $74.86 | $0.01 | 0.0% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Dec. 29, 2023, and U.S. BLS data from the months of December 2024 (the latest available) and December 2023. Notes: While most of our categories are via the USDA, pantry staples are via the BLS. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024.
Which individual food items saw their prices increase the most?
Going beyond the items we included in our “typical food basket,” we found triple-digit increases in six vegetables and fruits in just a month. (This category is a mixed look at the top increases across eight categories.)
Mustard spiked by 178.2% and turnip tops by 176.9%, while Honeycrisp apples, tangerines/mandarins, organic beets and sweet potatoes saw price increases of at least 100.0%.
Biggest increases (1-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | Last month | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Mustard Per Lb | $2.17 | $0.78 | $1.39 | 178.2% |
| Vegetables | Turnip Tops Per Lb | $2.16 | $0.78 | $1.38 | 176.9% |
| Fruit | Honeycrisp Apples 2 Lb Bag | $3.99 | $1.63 | $2.36 | 144.8% |
| Fruit | Tangerines/Mandarins Per Lb | $3.52 | $1.44 | $2.08 | 144.4% |
| Vegetables | Organic Beets Per Bunch | $3.34 | $1.50 | $1.84 | 122.7% |
| Vegetables | Sweet Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $2.04 | $1.00 | $1.04 | 104.0% |
| Vegetables | Cherry Type Tomatoes 1 Pint Package | $2.59 | $1.50 | $1.09 | 72.7% |
| Fruit | Honeycrisp Apples 5 Lb Bag | $6.99 | $4.07 | $2.92 | 71.7% |
| Fruit | Limes Per Lb | $1.29 | $0.77 | $0.52 | 67.5% |
| Fruit | Lemons Per Lb | $1.42 | $0.86 | $0.56 | 65.1% |
| Beef | Ground Beef 70-79% | $4.86 | $2.99 | $1.87 | 62.5% |
| Chicken | Drumsticks, 10 Lbs Or More Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $0.93 | $0.59 | $0.34 | 57.6% |
| Beef | Porterhouse Steak | $10.59 | $6.99 | $3.60 | 51.5% |
| Beef | Stew Meat | $8.99 | $5.99 | $3.00 | 50.1% |
| Eggs | Large White, 12, Fresh, Cage-Free | $3.96 | $2.65 | $1.31 | 49.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry 5 Lb Bag | $4.44 | $2.99 | $1.45 | 48.5% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $5.70 | $3.93 | $1.77 | 45.0% |
| Chicken | Thighs, Value Pack, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $2.17 | $1.51 | $0.66 | 43.7% |
| Pork | Rib Chops, Boneless | $5.99 | $4.21 | $1.78 | 42.3% |
| Pork | Butt Roast, Boneless | $2.89 | $2.04 | $0.85 | 41.7% |
| Pork | Whole Pork Shoulder | $2.40 | $1.72 | $0.68 | 39.5% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Usda Organic, Pasture Raised | $8.34 | $6.00 | $2.34 | 39.0% |
| Chicken | Drumsticks, Regular Pack, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $2.62 | $1.97 | $0.65 | 33.0% |
| Pork | Feet | $2.66 | $2.02 | $0.64 | 31.7% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Usda Organic, Free Range | $6.99 | $5.41 | $1.58 | 29.2% |
| Chicken | Party Wings, Flats And Drums, Value Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $3.84 | $2.99 | $0.85 | 28.4% |
| Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $2.79 | $2.18 | $0.61 | 28.0% |
| Pork | Cc Loin Chops, Bone-In | $3.48 | $2.76 | $0.72 | 25.9% |
| Beef | Tenderloin | $17.99 | $14.32 | $3.67 | 25.6% |
| Beef | T-Bone Steak | $9.75 | $7.85 | $1.90 | 24.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes Per Lb | $0.97 | $0.79 | $0.18 | 22.8% |
| Dairy | Cheese 2 lb Block | $7.09 | $5.87 | $1.22 | 20.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $2.80 | $2.32 | $0.48 | 20.7% |
| Dairy | Butter 1 lb | $4.24 | $3.60 | $0.64 | 17.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry Per Lb | $1.49 | $1.28 | $0.21 | 16.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | White Onions, Dry Per Lb | $1.31 | $1.13 | $0.18 | 15.9% |
| Dairy | Ice Cream 14-16 oz | $3.68 | $3.28 | $0.40 | 12.2% |
| Dairy | Ice Cream 48-64 oz | $4.10 | $3.74 | $0.36 | 9.6% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Nov. 29, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest increases, assuming a given category had five items that increased in price, across seven categories — beef, chicken, dairy, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables — and the three biggest increases for eggs. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024.
Going back three months, individual tangerines/mandarins — up a stunning 226.0% — saw the biggest increase. Four other products, including cantaloupes, chicken drumsticks, pomegranates and per-pound tangerines/mandarins, saw increases of at least 100.0%.
Biggest increases (3-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | 3 months prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruit | Tangerines/Mandarins Each | $2.38 | $0.73 | $1.65 | 226.0% |
| Fruit | Cantaloupes Per Lb | $1.59 | $0.56 | $1.03 | 183.9% |
| Chicken | Drumsticks, Regular Pack, Frozen, Conventional | $2.00 | $0.88 | $1.12 | 127.3% |
| Fruit | Pomegranates Per Lb | $3.15 | $1.50 | $1.65 | 110.0% |
| Fruit | Tangerines/Mandarins Per Lb | $3.52 | $1.76 | $1.76 | 100.0% |
| Vegetables | Collards Per Bunch | $1.88 | $0.97 | $0.91 | 93.8% |
| Fruit | Jazz Apples 2 Lb Bag | $3.78 | $1.98 | $1.80 | 90.9% |
| Vegetables | Garlic Per Sleeve | $1.95 | $1.14 | $0.81 | 71.1% |
| Vegetables | Organic Cilantro Per Bunch | $1.68 | $0.99 | $0.69 | 69.7% |
| Vegetables | Organic Carrots 2 Lb Bag | $2.50 | $1.50 | $1.00 | 66.7% |
| Vegetables | Chayote Per Lb | $1.40 | $0.86 | $0.54 | 62.8% |
| Chicken | Party Wings, Flats And Drums, Value Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $3.84 | $2.38 | $1.46 | 61.3% |
| Chicken | V-Cut Wings, Regular Pack, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $4.55 | $2.89 | $1.66 | 57.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 8 Lb Bag | $4.14 | $2.66 | $1.48 | 55.6% |
| Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $2.79 | $1.81 | $0.98 | 54.1% |
| Eggs | Medium White, 12, Fresh, Conventional | $2.99 | $1.98 | $1.01 | 51.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 5 Lb Bag | $4.99 | $3.42 | $1.57 | 45.9% |
| Eggs | Large White, 18, Fresh, Conventional | $4.99 | $3.50 | $1.49 | 42.6% |
| Pork | Feet | $2.66 | $1.87 | $0.79 | 42.2% |
| Pork | Cc Loin Chops, Boneless, Thick Cut | $4.06 | $2.97 | $1.09 | 36.8% |
| Chicken | Drumsticks, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $1.40 | $1.03 | $0.37 | 35.9% |
| Pork | Sirloin Chops, Bone-In | $2.22 | $1.66 | $0.56 | 33.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round White Potatoes Per Lb | $1.26 | $0.95 | $0.31 | 32.6% |
| Pork | Backribs | $3.66 | $2.82 | $0.84 | 29.8% |
| Pork | Pre-Cooked Bacon | $30.55 | $24.01 | $6.54 | 27.2% |
| Beef | Stew Meat | $8.99 | $7.08 | $1.91 | 27.0% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 18, Fresh, Cage-Free | $4.99 | $3.99 | $1.00 | 25.1% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.66 | $2.13 | $0.53 | 24.9% |
| Beef | Ground Beef 70-79% | $4.86 | $3.93 | $0.93 | 23.7% |
| Dairy | Organic Greek Yogurt 32 oz | $6.14 | $4.98 | $1.16 | 23.3% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Shred | $4.04 | $3.28 | $0.76 | 23.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry 3 Lb Bag | $3.41 | $2.89 | $0.52 | 18.0% |
| Beef | Ground Beef 80-89% | $4.69 | $3.99 | $0.70 | 17.5% |
| Beef | Flat Iron Steak | $9.99 | $8.57 | $1.42 | 16.6% |
| Dairy | Cheese 2 lb Shred | $7.77 | $6.82 | $0.95 | 13.9% |
| Beef | Tenderloin | $17.99 | $15.91 | $2.08 | 13.1% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Shred | $5.27 | $4.71 | $0.56 | 11.9% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Sliced | $2.94 | $2.64 | $0.30 | 11.4% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Sept. 27, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest increases, assuming a given category had five items that increased in price, across seven categories — beef, chicken, dairy, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables — and the three biggest increases for eggs. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024. Three-month egg prices are from Oct. 4, 2024.
When comparing today’s prices to those of a year ago, carrots led the way, up 152.5%. That was the biggest increase, though four other products saw spikes of at least 90.0%.
Biggest increases (1-year change)
| Category | Item | Current | 1 year prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Carrots Per Bunch | $2.50 | $0.99 | $1.51 | 152.5% |
| Vegetables | Mustard Per Lb | $2.17 | $0.97 | $1.20 | 123.7% |
| Vegetables | Turnip Tops Per Lb | $2.16 | $0.97 | $1.19 | 122.7% |
| Pork | Rib Chops, Boneless | $5.99 | $3.00 | $2.99 | 99.7% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Sliced | $5.70 | $3.00 | $2.70 | 90.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Marked Sweet Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.66 | $1.55 | $1.11 | 71.6% |
| Fruit | Tangerines/Mandarins Per Lb | $3.52 | $2.07 | $1.45 | 70.0% |
| Vegetables | Collards Per Lb | $1.95 | $1.15 | $0.80 | 69.6% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes 10 Lb Bag | $4.99 | $2.99 | $2.00 | 66.9% |
| Vegetables | Romaine Lettuce Each | $1.14 | $0.69 | $0.45 | 65.2% |
| Fruit | Jazz Apples Per Lb | $1.63 | $0.99 | $0.64 | 64.6% |
| Fruit | Cantaloupes Per Lb | $1.59 | $0.99 | $0.60 | 60.6% |
| Fruit | Envy Apples Per Lb | $1.86 | $1.16 | $0.70 | 60.3% |
| Fruit | Rome Apples Per Lb | $1.47 | $0.99 | $0.48 | 48.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Red Onions, Dry Per Lb | $1.63 | $1.11 | $0.52 | 46.8% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Iqf, Frozen, Conventional | $3.27 | $2.33 | $0.94 | 40.3% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Usda Organic | $5.60 | $4.01 | $1.59 | 39.7% |
| Beef | Stew Meat | $8.99 | $6.64 | $2.35 | 35.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $1.62 | $1.20 | $0.42 | 35.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Red Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.01 | $1.49 | $0.52 | 34.9% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Shred | $5.27 | $3.99 | $1.28 | 32.1% |
| Pork | Feet | $2.66 | $2.04 | $0.62 | 30.4% |
| Beef | Ground Beef 70-79% | $4.86 | $3.76 | $1.10 | 29.3% |
| Pork | Sirloin Chops, Bone-In | $2.22 | $1.74 | $0.48 | 27.3% |
| Beef | T-Bone Steak | $9.75 | $7.80 | $1.95 | 25.0% |
| Chicken | Drumsticks, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $1.40 | $1.12 | $0.28 | 25.0% |
| Pork | Neckbones | $2.73 | $2.22 | $0.51 | 23.0% |
| Chicken | Whole Bagged Fryer, Fresh, Conventional | $1.61 | $1.31 | $0.30 | 22.9% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Value Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.78 | $2.27 | $0.51 | 22.5% |
| Chicken | Thighs, Boneless/Skinless, Value Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $3.11 | $2.55 | $0.56 | 22.0% |
| Eggs | Extra Large White, 12, Fresh, Nutritionally Enhanced (Omega-3) | $2.51 | $2.07 | $0.44 | 21.3% |
| Dairy | Eggnog Quart | $4.11 | $3.50 | $0.61 | 17.4% |
| Beef | Bottom Round Steak | $5.91 | $5.04 | $0.87 | 17.3% |
| Dairy | Ice Cream 14-16 oz | $3.68 | $3.17 | $0.51 | 16.1% |
| Beef | Rump Roast | $5.63 | $4.93 | $0.70 | 14.2% |
| Pork | Loin Roast, Boneless | $2.39 | $2.14 | $0.25 | 11.8% |
| Dairy | Organic Milk Half Gallon | $4.95 | $4.44 | $0.51 | 11.5% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Dec. 29, 2023. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest increases, assuming a given category had five items that increased in price, across seven categories — beef, chicken, dairy, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables — and the three biggest increases for eggs. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024.
Which individual food items saw their prices decrease the most?
While many products saw their prices skyrocket this month, plenty of others went the opposite direction, including three that saw decreases of at least 60.0% in just a month. Persimmons fell 68.0% during that period, while antibiotic-free fresh chicken legs and bok choy fell 62.7% and 62.1%, respectively. Meanwhile, six other items fell by at least 40.0%.
Biggest decreases (1-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | Last month | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruit | Persimmons Per Lb | $0.49 | $1.53 | -$1.04 | -68.0% |
| Chicken | Legs, Regular Pack, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $1.49 | $3.99 | -$2.50 | -62.7% |
| Vegetables | Bok Choy Per Lb | $0.75 | $1.98 | -$1.23 | -62.1% |
| Eggs | Egg Nog, 32 Oz, Fresh, Usda Organic | $5.99 | $13.32 | -$7.33 | -55.0% |
| Fruit | Pink Lady/Cripps Pink Apples 3 Lb Bag | $1.91 | $3.99 | -$2.08 | -52.1% |
| Vegetables | Organic Radishes Per Bunch | $0.99 | $2.00 | -$1.01 | -50.5% |
| Vegetables | Organic Crown Cut Broccoli Per Lb | $1.99 | $3.99 | -$2.00 | -50.1% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Block | $3.29 | $5.55 | -$2.26 | -40.7% |
| Fruit | Solo Type Papaya Per Lb | $1.49 | $2.49 | -$1.00 | -40.2% |
| Pork | Ham Butt, Bone-In | $1.20 | $1.97 | -$0.78 | -39.3% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round White Potatoes 10 Lb Bag | $3.03 | $4.99 | -$1.96 | -39.3% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Half Gallon | $1.86 | $3.05 | -$1.19 | -39.0% |
| Pork | Ham Shank, Bone-In | $1.16 | $1.86 | -$0.70 | -37.6% |
| Pork | Sliced Bacon, Antibiotic Free | $5.99 | $9.58 | -$3.59 | -37.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Type Potatoes Per Lb | $0.97 | $1.55 | -$0.58 | -37.4% |
| Vegetables | Jalapeno Peppers Per Lb | $0.88 | $1.40 | -$0.52 | -37.1% |
| Chicken | Split Breast, Bone-In, Regular Pack, Fresh, Antibiotic Free | $2.40 | $3.63 | -$1.23 | -33.9% |
| Dairy | Milk Half Gallon | $1.72 | $2.58 | -$0.86 | -33.3% |
| Chicken | Thighs, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.38 | $3.56 | -$1.18 | -33.1% |
| Vegetables | Iceberg Lettuce Each | $1.31 | $1.95 | -$0.64 | -32.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.71 | $3.99 | -$1.28 | -32.1% |
| Fruit | Honeycrisp Apples 3 Lb Bag | $3.29 | $4.79 | -$1.50 | -31.3% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $2.21 | $3.18 | -$0.97 | -30.5% |
| Chicken | Leg Quarters, Value Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $1.04 | $1.49 | -$0.45 | -30.2% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $3.45 | $4.92 | -$1.47 | -29.9% |
| Chicken | Thighs, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Usda Organic | $5.99 | $8.49 | -$2.50 | -29.4% |
| Dairy | Yogurt 4-6 oz | $0.59 | $0.83 | -$0.24 | -28.9% |
| Pork | Whole Loin Roast, Bone-In | $2.62 | $3.66 | -$1.04 | -28.4% |
| Pork | Ham Spiral Sliced, Bone-In | $2.14 | $2.81 | -$0.67 | -23.9% |
| Beef | Top Round Roast | $4.72 | $5.99 | -$1.27 | -21.2% |
| Dairy | Sour Cream 24 oz | $2.99 | $3.77 | -$0.78 | -20.7% |
| Beef | Skirt Steak | $6.99 | $8.81 | -$1.82 | -20.7% |
| Beef | London Broil | $5.34 | $6.72 | -$1.38 | -20.5% |
| Eggs | Egg Nog, 32 Oz, Fresh, Conventional | $3.35 | $4.14 | -$0.79 | -19.1% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Usda Organic | $5.60 | $6.49 | -$0.89 | -13.7% |
| Beef | Filet Mignon | $17.99 | $20.84 | -$2.85 | -13.7% |
| Beef | Eye Of Round Steak | $5.82 | $6.63 | -$0.81 | -12.2% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Nov. 29, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest decreases, assuming a given category had five items that decreased in price, across seven categories — beef, chicken, dairy, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables — and the three biggest decreases for eggs. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024.
Going back three months, antibiotic-free, free-range chicken thighs led the way, falling 64.4%, though bone-in ham butt and bok choy weren’t far behind with drops of 60.0% and 58.3%, respectively. Nine others fell at least 40.0%.
Biggest decreases (3-month change)
| Category | Item | Current | 3 months prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Thighs, Regular Pack, Fresh, Abf, Free Range | $2.49 | $6.99 | -$4.50 | -64.4% |
| Pork | Ham Butt, Bone-In | $1.20 | $2.99 | -$1.80 | -60.0% |
| Vegetables | Bok Choy Per Lb | $0.75 | $1.80 | -$1.05 | -58.3% |
| Vegetables | Organic Crown Cut Broccoli Per Lb | $1.99 | $3.99 | -$2.00 | -50.1% |
| Fruit | Hass-Marked Small Avocados Each | $0.36 | $0.67 | -$0.31 | -46.3% |
| Beef | Brisket, Flat | $6.52 | $11.99 | -$5.47 | -45.6% |
| Fruit | Blueberries 1 Pint (11-12 Oz Cntr W/ Lid) | $2.88 | $5.27 | -$2.39 | -45.4% |
| Pork | Cooked Backribs | $6.78 | $12.29 | -$5.51 | -44.8% |
| Fruit | Gala/Royal Gala Apples 5 Lb Bag | $4.49 | $7.76 | -$3.27 | -42.1% |
| Fruit | Pink Lady/Cripps Pink Apples 3 Lb Bag | $1.91 | $3.30 | -$1.39 | -42.1% |
| Fruit | Valencia Oranges Per Lb | $0.88 | $1.51 | -$0.63 | -41.7% |
| Dairy | Organic Cheese 6-8 oz Block | $3.29 | $5.63 | -$2.34 | -41.6% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round White Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $2.19 | $3.62 | -$1.43 | -39.5% |
| Pork | Self-Service Deli Ham Tub/Pouch, Antibiotic Free | $14.83 | $23.97 | -$9.14 | -38.1% |
| Vegetables | Green Leaf Lettuce Each | $0.94 | $1.50 | -$0.56 | -37.3% |
| Vegetables | Chayote Each | $0.50 | $0.78 | -$0.28 | -35.9% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Frozen, Conventional | $2.49 | $3.87 | -$1.38 | -35.7% |
| Pork | Whole Loin Roast, Bone-In | $2.62 | $3.99 | -$1.37 | -34.3% |
| Pork | Butt Roast, Boneless | $2.89 | $4.40 | -$1.51 | -34.3% |
| Vegetables | Green Asparagus Per Lb | $2.86 | $4.16 | -$1.30 | -31.3% |
| Beef | Skirt Steak | $6.99 | $9.99 | -$3.00 | -30.0% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Round Red Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $3.48 | $4.97 | -$1.49 | -30.0% |
| Chicken | Breast Tenders, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.79 | $3.89 | -$1.10 | -28.3% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Type Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $3.45 | $4.80 | -$1.35 | -28.1% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Usda Organic, Free Range | $7.93 | $10.90 | -$2.97 | -27.2% |
| Chicken | Drumsticks, Value Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $1.14 | $1.55 | -$0.41 | -26.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Yellow Onions, Dry Per Lb | $0.73 | $0.98 | -$0.25 | -25.5% |
| Beef | Filet Mignon | $17.99 | $23.90 | -$5.91 | -24.7% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Russet Potatoes 5 Lb Bag | $2.21 | $2.79 | -$0.58 | -20.8% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Pasture Raised | $5.26 | $6.58 | -$1.32 | -20.1% |
| Beef | Top Round Roast | $4.72 | $5.88 | -$1.16 | -19.7% |
| Dairy | Milk Half Gallon | $1.72 | $2.14 | -$0.42 | -19.6% |
| Beef | Rump Roast | $5.63 | $6.99 | -$1.36 | -19.5% |
| Dairy | Cream Cheese 8 oz | $2.30 | $2.84 | -$0.54 | -19.0% |
| Dairy | Organic Milk Gallon | $8.19 | $9.99 | -$1.80 | -18.0% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Cage-Free | $2.99 | $3.61 | -$0.62 | -17.2% |
| Dairy | Cottage Cheese 24 oz | $3.08 | $3.68 | -$0.60 | -16.3% |
| Eggs | Large Brown, 12, Fresh, Usda Organic | $5.60 | $5.67 | -$0.07 | -1.2% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Sept. 27, 2024. Notes: The data highlights the five biggest decreases, assuming a given category had five items that decreased in price, across seven categories — beef, chicken, dairy, fruit, onions and potatoes, pork and vegetables — and the three biggest decreases for eggs. The current fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024. Three-month egg prices are from Oct. 4, 2024.
Looking back a year, we saw 23 items whose prices fell by at least 30.0%, including three that fell by at least 60.0%. Topping the list were Valencia oranges (80.0%), persimmons (62.6%) and yellow mangoes (61.6%).
Biggest decreases (1-year change)
| Category | Item | Current | 1 year prior | Difference ($) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruit | Valencia Oranges Each | $0.10 | $0.50 | -$0.40 | -80.0% |
| Fruit | Persimmons Per Lb | $0.49 | $1.31 | -$0.82 | -62.6% |
| Fruit | Yellow Varieties Mangoes Each | $0.38 | $0.99 | -$0.61 | -61.6% |
| Pork | Ham Butt, Bone-In | $1.20 | $2.61 | -$1.42 | -54.2% |
| Vegetables | Organic Plum Type (Roma) Tomatoes Per Lb | $1.39 | $2.99 | -$1.60 | -53.5% |
| Chicken | Rotisserie Leg Quarter, Prepared, Conventional | $2.99 | $6.00 | -$3.01 | -50.2% |
| Pork | Ham Shank, Bone-In | $1.16 | $2.18 | -$1.02 | -46.8% |
| Vegetables | Tomatillos Per Lb | $0.97 | $1.82 | -$0.85 | -46.7% |
| Fruit | Pink Lady/Cripps Pink Apples 3 Lb Bag | $1.91 | $3.53 | -$1.62 | -45.9% |
| Fruit | Various Greenskin Varieties Avocados Each | $1.39 | $2.50 | -$1.11 | -44.4% |
| Vegetables | Bok Choy Per Lb | $0.75 | $1.28 | -$0.53 | -41.4% |
| Vegetables | Organic Crown Cut Broccoli Per Lb | $1.99 | $3.36 | -$1.37 | -40.8% |
| Onions & Potatoes | White Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $1.78 | $3.00 | -$1.22 | -40.7% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round White Potatoes 10 Lb Bag | $3.03 | $4.99 | -$1.96 | -39.3% |
| Vegetables | Jalapeno Peppers Per Lb | $0.88 | $1.41 | -$0.53 | -37.6% |
| Beef | Skirt Steak | $6.99 | $11.10 | -$4.11 | -37.0% |
| Pork | Smoked Chops | $4.83 | $7.38 | -$2.55 | -34.6% |
| Dairy | Cheese 1 lb Sliced | $2.94 | $4.48 | -$1.54 | -34.4% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Round Red Potatoes 10 Lb Bag | $2.99 | $4.46 | -$1.47 | -33.0% |
| Dairy | Flavored Milk Half Gallon | $1.86 | $2.72 | -$0.86 | -31.6% |
| Chicken | Thighs, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.38 | $3.48 | -$1.10 | -31.6% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Yellow Onions, Dry 2 Lb Bag | $2.71 | $3.91 | -$1.20 | -30.7% |
| Dairy | Greek Yogurt 32 oz | $3.80 | $5.43 | -$1.63 | -30.0% |
| Dairy | Cheese 2 lb Block | $7.09 | $10.02 | -$2.93 | -29.2% |
| Pork | Canadian Bacon | $7.97 | $10.62 | -$2.65 | -25.0% |
| Pork | Picnic, Bone-In | $1.45 | $1.92 | -$0.47 | -24.5% |
| Onions & Potatoes | Organic Round Red Potatoes 3 Lb Bag | $3.48 | $4.58 | -$1.10 | -24.0% |
| Dairy | Butter 8 oz | $2.63 | $3.45 | -$0.82 | -23.8% |
| Chicken | Breast Tenders, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.79 | $3.59 | -$0.80 | -22.3% |
| Beef | Filet Mignon | $17.99 | $21.45 | -$3.46 | -16.1% |
| Beef | Top Round Roast | $4.72 | $5.42 | -$0.70 | -12.9% |
| Eggs | Large White, 12, Fresh, Conventional | $1.77 | $2.00 | -$0.23 | -11.5% |
| Beef | London Broil | $5.34 | $5.81 | -$0.47 | -8.1% |
| Chicken | Breast Tenders, Iqf, Frozen, Conventional | $2.49 | $2.66 | -$0.17 | -6.4% |
| Beef | Bottom Round Roast | $5.81 | $6.05 | -$0.24 | -4.0% |
| Chicken | Breast, Boneless/Skinless, Regular Pack, Fresh, Conventional | $2.83 | $2.88 | -$0.05 | -1.7% |
Source: LendingTree analysis of USDA data from Dec. 27, 2024 (the latest available), and Dec. 29, 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 fruit, onions/potatoes and vegetables data is from Dec. 20, 2024.
How to get a handle on your grocery costs
Life is expensive, 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 January 2025 are from the USDA retail report dated the last Friday in December, the one-month comparison is from the report dated the last Friday in November, the three-month comparison is from the report dated the last Friday in September and the one-year comparison is from the report dated the last Friday of December in the prior calendar year.
Dry pantry items 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. Current prices for our Food Cost Report published in January are from the BLS report dated December, the one-month comparison is from the report dated November, the three-month comparison is from the report dated September and the one-year comparison is from the report dated December 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 a nearby week’s report for the missing item or items.