How to Save on Groceries Even as Prices Rise

A Practical Guide for U.S. Consumers Facing Food Inflation in 2025

Food prices continue to rise in the United States, and grocery shopping has become a true exercise in strategy.

If you’re like millions of Americans looking for ways to keep the fridge full without draining your bank account, this article is for you.

Below, we’ve gathered practical, up-to-date, and realistic tips to help you save money while grocery shopping, even with prices at record highs.

Understand the New Normal in Grocery Stores

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices have increased by more than 20% over the past three years.

As a result, grocery inflation has become part of everyday American life, requiring new consumption habits and smarter planning.

1. Create Shopping Lists Based on Weekly Meal Plans

It sounds simple, but it’s very effective. Before heading to the store (or placing an online order), create a weekly meal plan using overlapping ingredients.

This helps avoid waste and maximizes the use of fresh products—especially important in times of high prices.

2. Take Advantage of Supermarket Apps and Digital Coupons

Today, nearly all major U.S. grocery stores have apps with exclusive deals, coupons, rewards, and loyalty points.

Here are a few helpful platforms:

• Kroger App: lets you activate coupons and track local promotions.
• Target Circle: offers cashback and personalized discounts.
• Safeway and Albertsons have weekly coupons and special member offers.
• Fetch Rewards or Ibotta: apps that reward you with cash back for purchasing specific items.

3. Buy Store Brands

If you used to turn your nose up at store-brand items, it’s time to reconsider. These products have greatly improved in quality and are still significantly cheaper than name brands.

Items like rice, milk, eggs, pasta, soap, and paper towels are typically 20–30% less expensive when bought under store brands.

4. Shop on the Right Days

In the U.S., grocery stores often refresh their sales flyers on Wednesdays.

This makes midweek the ideal time to shop—sometimes you can even catch deals from both the old and new weeks on the same day.

Also, avoid shopping on Sundays: it’s when stores are most crowded, impulse buying is common, and fresh products are limited.

5. Plan Monthly Bulk Purchases

Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s are excellent for buying in bulk.

While they require an annual membership, they offer major savings on non-perishable items, frozen meats, cleaning supplies, and paper goods.

6. Swap Expensive Items for Affordable Alternatives

Adjusting your meal plan makes a big difference. Beef too pricey? Try chicken or eggs. Are fresh berries expensive? Opt for frozen ones. Imported cheeses breaking the bank? Choose domestic brands on sale.

With a little creativity, you can maintain nutrition and taste without overspending.

7. Check Out Farmers’ Markets and Local Stands

Local producers’ markets can be surprisingly affordable—especially at the end of the day or weekend, when vendors want to clear out stock to avoid waste.

Plus, you’re supporting small farmers and getting fresher food.

8. Avoid Waste: Use Everything

It’s estimated that the average American household throws away over $1,500 in food every year.

Reduce that number by:

• Storing produce properly.
• Freezing items before they spoil.
• Creating recipes with leftovers.
• Using peels and stems to make homemade broths.

Zero waste = real savings.

9. Avoid Impulse Buying

Grocery runs without planning can be costly. To avoid overspending:

• Never shop hungry.
• Bring a list—and stick to it.
• Skip aisles that don’t have what you need.
• Always compare unit prices on shelf tags.

10. Use Credit Cards with Cashback or Points

When used responsibly, credit cards with supermarket rewards can ease the pain at checkout.

Popular examples:

• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: 6% cashback on groceries.
• Chase Freedom Flex: rotating cashback categories, including groceries.
• Citi Custom Cash: 5% cashback in your top spending category.

Even with inflation driving prices ever higher, consistent grocery savings are still possible.

So, before rushing off to fill your cart, review this list, download the right apps, and build a game plan.
Your budget will thank you—and so will your pantry.

Written by

Gabriel Gonçalves