Seven Ways to Save on the High Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving dinner hasn’t escaped the ravages of inflation.

According to the Farm Bureau, the average cost of a “classic” feast for 10 people is $64.05 this year. That’s a 20% hike, or $10.74, from the 2021 price.

However, average cost doesn’t tell the whole story. In western states, putting together and cooking the same meal costs $88.55.

“General inflation slashing the purchasing power of consumers is a significant factor contributing to the increase in average cost of this year’s Thanksgiving dinner,” said Roger Cryan, chief economist for the American Farm Bureau Federation, in a news release.

“General inflation has been running 7% to 9% in recent months, while the most recent Consumer Price Index report for food consumed at home reveals a 12% increase over the past year.”

The Farm Bureau’s Thanksgiving shopping list includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and coffee and milk — all in quantities sufficient to serve a family of 10 with plenty for leftovers.

From 2011 through 2020, the cost of Thanksgiving dinner actually dropped a couple of dollars. But it jumped by $6.41 to $53.31 in 2021 and nearly $11 more this year.

Thanksgiving Cost-Cutting Tips

• Go potluck and have guests bring the side dishes.
• Check your cupboard for items you already have and whip up creative side dishes.
• Smaller portions will spare your wallet and waistline.
• With the cost of turkey soaring, roast a chicken instead.
• Make your own pies instead of buying them at the store.
• Shop around. Aldi, for example, says it is keeping non-perishables at its 2019 prices.
• Look for deals. Some stores offer specials on turkeys.

The Farm Bureau’s Thanksgiving Menu

The Farm Bureau’s Thanksgiving shopping list includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and coffee and milk — all in quantities sufficient to serve a family of 10 with plenty for leftovers.

From 2011 through 2020, prices for a Thanksgiving dinner actually dropped a couple of dollars. But they jumped by $6.41 to $53.31 in 2021 and nearly $11 above that this year.

(American Farm Bureau Federation)

How the Cost Is Calculated

The national average cost is based on 224 surveys from all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers checked prices in person and online using grocery store apps and websites. They looked for the best possible prices without taking advantage of special promotional coupons or purchase deals.