Are you feeling a bit of a problem with grocery prices when you check out? You are not alone because we certainly have it. In recent years, grocery spending has skyrocketed, increasing by more than 25% between 2019 and 2024. To identify where food spending has increased the most, we analyzed data from the US Department of Agriculture in all 50 states from 2019 to 2024.
Important findings
Idaho is the top of the list of states with the highest growth in grocery spending. Idahoans spent an average of $3,907.85 on groceries in 2024, an increase of $138.81 (3.7%) from 2023. Six of the top 10 states where grocery spending has been the most rising between 2023 and 2024 are located in the west side of Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Montana, California and New Mexico. In 2024, Alaskans spent the most on groceries ($3,918.14), followed by Idahonians ($3,907.85) and Montanas ($3,872.72). Between 2019 and 2024, Tennessee saw the sharpest growth in grocery spending (44.6%), with an annual increase of $1,038.42.
It’s no wonder that more than two in three Americans are seriously worried about how much they spend on food.
But the effects aren’t the same everywhere. Prices have risen even further in some states, making weekly grocery stores even more stressful for families looking to grow every dollar. To see how these increases differ, turn to state-by-state analysis.
Top 10 states where grocery spending jumped the most
Whether you’re looking for what’s going on in your area or how to grow your grocery budget, it can help you compare grocery prices by state.
If you want to save the flavors without skipping, your favorite budget-friendly recipe is the perfect place to start. Scroll down to see where grocery spending has increased the most between 2023 and 2024.
1. Idaho
In 2024, Idahon spent an average of $3,907.85 on groceries. It costs $325.65 per month. This is a 3.7% increase from 2023 to $138.81 for that year.
2. Michigan
Michigan grocery prices hit $2,984.95 (approximately $248.75 a month) in 2024, up 3.3% from the previous year. This is an annual increase of $95.58.
3. South Dakota
South Dakotan averaged $3,302.58 for groceries in 2024, or about $275.22 per month. This is a 3.2% increase from 2023, a difference of $103.23.
4. Yuta
Grocery expenditure in Utah averaged $3,757.91 in 2024. It was $313.16 a month. This is $114.69 from 2023, an increase of 3.1%.
5. Nevada
Nevadan spent about $3,601.16 ($300.10 a month) on groceries in 2024, up 3.1% from 2023. This is the annual difference of $109.57.
6. Pennsylvania
Keystone State’s grocery spending rose 3.1% between 2023 and 2024 to $3,061.88 (or $255.16 per month). That’s $91.62 more than last year.
7. Rhode Island
Rhode Islanders increased $82.48 in 2024 to groceries, an increase of $2,818.90 (approximately $234.91 a month), up 3% from 2023.
8. Montana
Montanan spent an average of $3,872.72 on groceries in 2024. This was $322.73 a month. This is an increase of 2.9% in 2023 (an additional $110.13).
9. California
In 2024, Californians paid an average of $3,363.21 for food. This is about $280.27, or 2.83% more than last year (over $92.56).
10. New Mexico
Grocery prices in New Mexico reached $3,449.80 in 2024. It costs $287.48 per month. This is 2.8% higher than 2023, at $94.04.
Grocery expenditure over the past five years
Over the past five years, grocery prices have risen nationwide, but not in Tennessee, where spending has increased 44.6%. This is an extra $1,038.42 in groceries every year in 2024 compared to 2019.
Other states that are seeing a sharp increase include:
Arizona: 39.3% (increase of $1,010.02) California: 39.1% (increase of $944.92) Nevada: 38.7% (increase of $1,003.97) Utah: 36.3% (increase of $1,001.56)
These tips will help you skyrocket grocery prices
Grocery stores’ prices can be difficult to raise, but eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. With some simple habits, you can enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals while managing the costs of your groceries.
Start with recipes you actually love: choose the simple, affordable meals you’re looking forward to – soups, tacos, or slow dishes. These recipes are easy to prepare, perfect for leftovers, and help you plan your smarts without sacrificing flavor. Cook once and eat twice (or more): Batch Cooking Make-Ahead Friendly Cooking is a great way to save time and money. Make a larger portion to enjoy some meals during the week. Make meals around pantry staples and seasonal produce: Stock up pantry essentials such as rice, beans, and pasta. Combine with fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a delicious, affordable meal that can be adapted to locally available. Our Easy Bean Salad or this vegetable spaghetti is a great example! Make as far as you can from scratch: simple homemade sauces, dressings, dips like this simple salsa add flavors without adding any cost. They whip easily and help to further grow your grocery budget. Use coupons wisely: Grocery stores prices vary significantly more than expected, even between stores in the same neighborhood. Take a few minutes, compare grocery prices, check out our weekly flyer, and use digital coupons for items you already have purchased. These small habits will help you grow your budget even further (without sacrificing the meals you like to cook).
Methodology
To determine where food spending has risen the most, we analyzed U.S. Department of Agriculture’s inspirational tastes across all 50 states, comparing two important periods, 2019–2024 and 2023–2024.
Fair Use Statement
We recommend sharing these findings, but by sharing a link to this page, you can attribute it to an inspired taste.
We are Adam and Joan, who have been passionate about cooking and sharing trustworthy recipes since 2009. Our goal? To encourage you to enter the kitchen and cook fresh, flavorful meals with confidence.
