If your grocery bill seems to be climbing higher each month, you’re far from alone. With food prices on a steady rise, grocery shopping has become one of the most pressing household expenses in the U.S. But how does your spending measure up to the national average—and what should you actually be budgeting?
What Americans Are Really Spending on Groceries
According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average U.S. household shells out around $504 a month—or just over $6,000 a year—on groceries alone. This figure includes all food purchased for home preparation, but it can vary wildly depending on where you live, the size of your household, and your shopping habits.
From large families feeding multiple mouths to single professionals sticking to organic or specialty diets, monthly grocery costs are anything but one-size-fits-all.
So, What Should You Spend?
While there’s no universal rule for grocery budgeting, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers monthly food plans to serve as benchmarks. These include Low-Cost, Moderate-Cost, and Liberal spending levels—all based on maintaining a healthy diet.
Each plan reflects different eating styles. For example, the Low-Cost Plan leans on affordable staples and home-cooked meals, while the Liberal Plan allows more room for convenience items or premium selections. The USDA also includes adjustment guidelines for households larger or smaller than four people.
Want to calculate your target grocery budget? Tally up the individual monthly food estimates for each household member using the USDA guidelines, then apply the recommended household size adjustment—like adding 10% for a two-person household or subtracting 5% for a family of five.
Your ZIP Code Plays a Big Role
Where you live heavily influences how much your groceries cost. Take New York City vs. Dallas: In NYC, the estimated food cost per person per month is about $561.80, while in Dallas it’s closer to $417.68, based on Numbeo data. Local food availability, transportation costs, and store types (like discount grocers vs. upscale markets) all contribute to the discrepancy.
The Real Budget Busters: Habits and Preferences
Beyond geography, your personal choices at the store can make or break your budget. Premium, organic, or specialty products tend to drive up receipts quickly. A preference for convenience foods or high-end brands can also take a toll.
On the flip side, being strategic with your grocery habits—like making a list, meal prepping, and using digital coupons or loyalty apps—can lead to meaningful savings. Even small changes, like shopping with a plan or opting for store brands, can make a noticeable difference.
Bottom Line
If your grocery bill feels overwhelming, comparing your spending to USDA food plan benchmarks can help determine if you’re over budget—or just experiencing regional cost realities. With food costs continuing to fluctuate, staying informed and intentional is key to keeping your monthly spending in check.
