Mandy
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Americans can expect to spend slightly less on their holiday feast this year.
According to the American Farm Bureau, the cost of preparing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner has declined as about half of the commonly used ingredients have fallen in price.
Lower Overall Cost For A Family Meal
The Farm Bureau estimates that a full holiday dinner for 10 people will cost around $55, marking a 5% decrease compared to 2024.
This reduction reflects improved pricing trends across several key food categories, most notably the main dish—turkey.
Produce Prices Shift Based On Location
In Hutchinson, Kansas, local stores are seeing noticeable price improvements for produce.
Chris Barnes, owner of the family-run Smith’s Market, shared that the cost of many fresh foods is dropping due to lower shipping expenses.
“Fruits are definitely cheaper, potatoes are definitely cheaper… that’s where we really see it,” Barnes said.
However, the situation isn’t uniform across the country. The Farm Bureau notes that not all Americans will benefit from lower produce prices. Some significant price hikes are being seen elsewhere:
- Vegetable trays up 61%
- Sweet potatoes up 37%
These increases are largely tied to natural disasters and supply disruptions.
Shipping And Labor Improvements
According to Barnes, the reduction in freight costs and increased efficiency among producers have played a major role in driving prices down.
“Freight is definitely down… producers have become more streamlined and efficient. They’ve figured out how to do things at a lower labor rate,” he explained.
Turkey Prices Decline
The biggest savings this year come from the centerpiece of the meal.
Turkey prices are down 16%, though the Farm Bureau notes this drop is primarily due to grocery chains offering strong holiday discounts to encourage shoppers to return to traditional Thanksgiving buying habits.
Overall, Americans planning a traditional Thanksgiving feast in 2025 will likely see moderate savings, thanks to reduced prices for turkey and several fresh ingredients.
However, regional variation—especially in produce pricing—means not everyone will experience the same level of relief.