Thoughtful woman in a supermarket aisle with a United States flag in the background.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

Neither Walmart nor Trader Joe's: This Is the Cheapest Supermarket in the United States

There are two supermarkets that lead the ranking of the most economical supermarkets in the United States, surpassing chains like Walmart, Trader Joe's, or Target

Inflation has changed the way Americans do their shopping. Every penny counts, and the supermarket where daily products are purchased is no longer chosen at random. Families seek to maximize every dollar in a context of rising prices.

There is no doubt that saving on basic products has become a priority in the United States. The increase in the cost of living forces many households to reorganize their budget. Thus, choosing the right supermarket can make a notable difference at the end of the month.

A woman in a yellow blouse holds a shopping basket and a phone while selecting products in a supermarket; in the upper left corner, there is a United States flag.
Inflation Has Changed the Way Americans Do Their Shopping | Getty Images Signature de PixelsEffect, Sk de sansak@design, en.edatv.news

This Is the Cheapest Supermarket in the United States

A study by Forbes Advisor estimates that the annual food expenditure ranges between $3,683 and $5,970 per person. These figures vary by state, but the supermarket also directly influences them. Not all offer the same prices or the same strategies to help the consumer.

In fact, an analysis by the discount platform Bravo Deal revealed which chains offer truly low prices. This study was conducted by comparing basic and household items like eggs, milk, bread, or detergent. The result surprised many: neither Walmart nor Trader Joe's are the cheapest.

According to this savings guide, Aldi is positioned as the cheapest supermarket in the United States in 2024. It is followed by Lidl, another German chain that has gained ground on American soil. In third place is Trader Joe's, which, although it has a good image, doesn't lead in low prices.

Storefront with the ALDI logo at the top.
Aldi Positions Itself as the Cheapest Supermarket in the United States in 2024 | Google Maps

The complete ranking also includes Albertson's, Walmart, and Target, which occupy the following positions. Further down are Kroger, Publix, Whole Foods Market, and Sam's Club. All of them apply different policies to reduce costs for the customer.

Some bet on private labels, while others offer constant promotions. The common goal is to attract the consumer who wants to save. However, price is not everything.

But the Favorites Are Others

Although Aldi and Lidl are the most economical, they are not the most loved by customers. The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) offers another type of ranking. In this, Costco, H-E-B, and Publix stand out as the chains with the highest acceptance.

These supermarkets tie for first place in terms of overall satisfaction. Trader Joe's and Sam's Club complete the top five most valued by users. In this case, savings are not measured, but the experience is.

Three supermarket facades: Costco, H-E-B, and Publix.
Costco, H-E-B, and Publix Stand Out as the Chains with the Highest Acceptance | Google Maps, en.edatv.news

Factors such as staff attention and store condition are taken into account. Aspects like speed at the checkout and space organization also count. For many shoppers, these elements are as important as the price.

In short, the choice of supermarket has become strategic. It's not just about filling the fridge, but doing so without breaking the bank. Knowing where to shop in 2024 can be a great relief for the family budget.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

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