Your family’s Thanksgiving centerpiece may cost you a bit more this year.
A September outlook report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated that wholesale frozen turkey prices will be $1.32 per pound this year, a 40% increase from 2024’s average price of 94 cents per pound.
Keep in mind, too, that wholesale price is what retailers pay to buy turkeys in bulk, then retailers decide how much to charge customers.
According to the report, the price spike is due to a rash of highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in late 2024 and early 2025 that depleted flocks and led to egg shortages. Eight outbreaks in North and South Dakota affected over 400,000 birds.
This year, the number of turkeys raised is forecasted at 195 million, down 3% from 2024, due to slightly less demand.
How to Save on Thanksgiving Dinner This Year
Aware that many customers will be looking to save this holiday season, some grocers are offering low-cost options to dress Thanksgiving tables.
Earlier this month, Aldi announced its Thanksgiving meal deal, which feeds 10 people for less than $47 — its lowest price basket in five years.
Aldi’s offering includes a Butterball turkey with spices, gravy, rolls, mac and cheese and stuffing, as well as the ingredients to make cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole and pumpkin pie.
Not to be outdone, Walmart’s Thanksgiving meal bundle will cost customers less than $4 per person. It also feeds 10 people, and is at its lowest price since Walmart started selling the meal in 2022. Walmart’s meal includes 20 items, including a 13.5-pound Butterball turkey, stuffing, dinner rolls, mac and cheese, and more.
The meal is also going to hang around long after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade floats are all deflated, available for purchase through Dec. 25, meaning for cost-conscious customers, Christmas dinner is all set, too.
