5 US States Where You Can Find Groceries Surprisingly Cheap
In the last few years, buying groceries has taken a big bite out of consumers’ pockets due to inflation, labor shortages, droughts, and high production costs. While inflation is slightly cooling, grocery prices are still expensive. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food prices are predicted to rise by a further 2.2% over the course of 2024.
“Prices very rarely go back,” Robert Frick, corporate economist at Navy Federal Credit Union, told FOX Business. “It’s going to take two or three years before people feel real relief from the surge in inflation, especially with things like food,” he added.
But not everyone stocking their fridge and pantry is feeling the pinch. Love Food analyzed data from a recent study by CashNetUSA — accounting for average income by state — to find the cheapest places to live regarding grocery expenses.
West Virginia
West Virginia ranks as the cheapest state for groceries. Residents pay 7.7% below the national average, which is no surprise since the state’s cost of living is also affordable, averaging $1,566 a month for one person — “which is 1.4 times less expensive than the average in the United States,” per LivingCost.
Delaware
Delaware locals not only pay well below the average price of food (7.13%), but shopping is tax-free. The cost of living is also affordable, with an average of $2,109 a month per person, “which is 1.04 times less expensive than the average in the United States. Delaware ranked 32nd most expensive and 38th best state to live in the United States,” LivingCost indicated.
Kentucky
People in Kentucky also enjoy paying less for food, but not all items are cheaper. “Kentucky is relatively affordable for most — but not for anyone cutting out meat and dairy,” per Love Food. “While regular groceries sell well below average — 6.72% cheaper, to be precise — Kentucky is the ninth least affordable state for vegans.”
The cost of living for Kentucky averages $1,807 a month per person, “which is 1.21 times less expensive than the average in the United States,” according to LivingCost.
Ohio
Anyone visiting or living in Ohio pays 6.48% below the nationwide average for groceries. The cost of living in the Buckeye Eye state is affordable, too, compared to other states. One person a month averages $1,877 in expenses, “which is 1.17 times less expensive than the average in the United States. Ohio ranked 45th most expensive and 20th best state to live in the United States,” LivingCost outlined.
Kansas
Kansas residents pay a substantial food sales tax, at 6.5%, but the price of food is 6.17% below average. The cost of living in Kansas averages $1,905 a month per person, “which is 1.15 times less expensive than the average in the United States. Kansas State ranked 43rd most expensive and 32nd best state to live in the United States,” per LivingCost.
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