Groceries are expensive and only getting more pricey. If you’re a budget-conscious consumer, you’re likely always on the hunt for cheaper ways to get your necessities. While grocery store prices vary across the U.S., we can still narrow down some of the most expensive grocery stores in the nation. Avoid high markups at these 15 grocery stores.
Erewhon Market
Erewhon Market is a Los Angeles-based store infamous for its high markups. They boast luxury offerings and celebrity clientele, with some feeling this justifies the high price tags. It’s not uncommon to see $20 smoothies and $25 loaves of bread for sale. The store recently went viral for its $20 single strawberry. All of this contributes to its reputation as one of the most expensive grocery stores in the U.S.
Whole Foods Market
It may be beloved by loyal shoppers, but Whole Foods is one of the pricier grocery stores. Some dub the store “Whole Paycheck.” The store is known for its organic and non-GMO products, which typically feature a higher price tag compared to conventional grocery stores. It can be slightly cheaper for Amazon Prime members since its acquisition.
Harris Teeter
Harris Teeter is technically a subsidiary of Kroger. Still, the North Carolina-based grocery store marks up its prices quite a bit. It attributes the high price tag to its top-notch quality items and superior customer service. Harris Teeter recently attempted to address pricing concerns by reducing the cost of some items.
The Fresh Market
The Fresh Market is another North Carolina-based grocery store with steep pricing. This store aims to recreate the feel of European markets. They offer a wide array of fresh produce and specialty products, often at premium prices. Some customers justify the cost for the boutique shopping experience, but others gawk at the expensive pricing.
Wegmans
Wegmans is known for its upscale shopping experience and high-quality, organic products. The family-owned grocery chain is based in Rochester, New York, with locations across the East Coast. Wegmans’ prices are often comparable to those of Whole Foods, but many customers feel the quality is worth the upcharge.
Gelson’s
Based in Southern California, Gelson’s is praised for its premium service and selection of gourmet, hard-to-find products, contributing to its higher prices. But regular items are more expensive too. For instance, eggs may cost $6.99 at Gelson’s while the national average is $1.83. This grocery store primarily serves upscale neighborhoods in the Southern California region.
Bristol Farms
Bristol Farms is another Southern California-based grocery store. They offer a variety of specialty meats and gourmet cheeses. Unlike other grocery stores, there is an actual butcher on staff. The store prides itself on offering fresh, restaurant-quality foods to its customers. The prices certainly reflect the store’s premium offerings.
Publix
While praised for its friendly customer service and clean stores, Publix’s prices are often quite high compared to other grocery chains in the region. The Southern-based store justifies its price tag with its wide range of products and superior shopping experience. Many praise the store for being an employee-owned company.
Dean & DeLuca
Dean & DeLuca was founded in 1977 by Giorgio DeLuca, a former history teacher turned cheese merchant. Since then, the store has become somewhat of a culinary destination. Known for its unique, gourmet products and higher prices, this upscale grocery store offers a range of premium domestic and imported foods.
Fairway Market
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive selection of gourmet goods, Fairway Market is another store with relatively expensive prices. The New York City-based grocery store offers an exceptional cheese selection. Unfortunately, the store filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020. While they’re on the road to recovery now, they only have four locations open.
Eataly
Eataly is a global network of Italian marketplaces. It combines restaurants, cafés, food counters, and an extensive grocery section for a truly unique shopping experience. Customers can also find a variety of high-quality food and drink options. Eataly imports an array of high-end Italian products, which lends to its sky-high prices.
PCC Community Markets
PCC Community Markets is a community-centered sustainable grocery store. Formerly known as Puget Consumers Co-op, this Seattle-based food cooperative is known as the largest consumer-owned food cooperative in the United States. They aim to support a vibrant local, organic food system. Most co-ops are inadvertently pricey due to the fresh local quality, and that’s no different for PCC Community Markets.
Central Market
Central Market is a division of H-E-B Grocery Company. The gourmet grocery store chain operates throughout the major markets in Texas. The store offers an unparalleled selection of organic and locally sourced products, with prices reflecting the emphasis on quality. You’ll find a lot more fresh produce, meat, seafood, and chef-prepared items over packaged goods.
Mariano’s
Found throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, Mariano’s is known for its upscale shopping experience. The store offers a wide selection of fresh produce and organic products at a premium price. Specialty departments such as the oyster bar, gelato bar, and sushi station keep customers coming back despite the steep prices.
Giant Eagle
Established in 1936 and serving the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, Giant Eagle is known for its high prices. Not only do they feature high-quality food and produce, but they also offer an impressive wine and beer section. They even offer tastings. Advantage card members can enjoy frequent sales and loyalty perks that may cushion the high prices.
