If your budget from last year isn’t cutting it this year, that’s because prices have gone way up. According to AP, consumer prices rose 3.3% between March of this year and last year. Prices went up 0.9% in March from February, which is the largest increase in almost four years.
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AP reported that economists predict prices are only going to get higher as the year goes on. Even the most affordable stores could be affected, so here are some Dollar Tree picks retirees should get before prices get too high.
Cafe El Morro Espresso Coffee
- Price: $5
Coffee is one of the items seeing the most inflation, Wall Street Journal reported. Shoppers should pick up this $5 El Morro Espresso Coffee before prices get any higher. Each can has 10 ounces of coffee.
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Southgate Beef Stew
- Price: $1.50
Beef is another grocery staple that has seen major price hikes, according to CBS News. Retirees will want to stock up on beef items now, like this beef stew. Dollar Tree customers love it, with one review saying, “I buy this all the time. [I]t’s my favorite go-to food. I like it with a piece of crusty sourdough bread. You can also add more potatoes or vegetables.”
Minute Maid Orange Juice
- Price: $4.50
Orange juice is seeing dramatically higher prices. According to Food & Wine, drought in regions that produce oranges is to blame. Try to get as much now before prices increase this summer.
M&M’s Peanut Chocolate Candies
- Price: $1.25
Got a sweet tooth? You’ve probably noticed it’s getting more expensive to buy candy. Axios reported Easter candy was 14% more expensive than last year. Chocolate is especially hit by these price hikes, so make sure to get your M&M’s now.
Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Price: $3.75
According to Forbes, olive oil is getting more expensive. It’s such a kitchen staple that it’s probably smart to buy a few bottles now. Otherwise, you might regret it.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Dollar Tree Groceries Retirees Need To Buy Before Prices Spike in Summer 2026