Grocery delivery apps like Instacart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats have made it easier than ever to shop from your couch. But that convenience comes at a cost—especially when it comes to food pricing. Many shoppers don’t realize that the same item can cost significantly more on an app than it does in-store. From hidden markups to inflated base prices, some foods are consistently mispriced. If you’re trying to stick to a grocery budget, these are the six categories where you’re most likely to overpay.
1. Milk and Dairy Products
Milk is one of the most commonly mispriced items on grocery delivery apps. While a gallon of store-brand milk might cost $3.29 in-store, it can jump to $4.99 or more on apps like Instacart. The markup isn’t always obvious because it’s baked into the item price—not just the delivery fee. Yogurt, cheese, and butter often follow the same pattern, especially name brands. If dairy is a staple in your household, it’s worth checking your local store’s weekly ad before clicking “add to cart.”
2. Fresh Produce
Bananas, apples, and bagged salads are frequently marked up on delivery platforms. A bunch of bananas that costs $0.59 per pound in-store might be listed at $0.79 or higher online. The price difference adds up quickly, especially for families buying in bulk. Some apps also round up produce weights, meaning you could be charged for more than you actually receive. For the freshest—and most fairly priced—produce, shopping in person is usually your best bet.
3. Cereal and Breakfast Items
Cereal is another category where delivery app prices often exceed in-store tags. A box of Cheerios that’s $3.49 at Walmart might be listed for $4.79 on a delivery app. Oatmeal, granola bars, and pancake mix also tend to carry higher price tags online. These items are easy to stock up on during in-store promotions or BOGO sales, which rarely apply to app orders. If breakfast is a big part of your grocery haul, consider buying these items in-store to avoid inflated costs.
4. Bottled Beverages and Juices
From orange juice to bottled water, drinks are among the most heavily marked-up items on delivery apps. A 12-pack of bottled water that costs $2.99 in-store might be listed at $5.49 online. Name-brand juices and sports drinks also see significant price hikes, especially when ordered through third-party services. These items are heavy and bulky, which may contribute to higher pricing due to handling and delivery logistics. Still, the price gap is often steep enough to make a store run worthwhile.
5. Packaged Snacks
Chips, cookies, and crackers are easy to toss into a digital cart—but they’re also easy targets for price inflation. A bag of Doritos that’s $3.99 in-store might cost $5.29 on a delivery app. Store-brand snacks are also affected, though the markup tends to be slightly lower. These items are often part of in-store promotions or loyalty discounts that don’t carry over to app pricing. If you’re craving snacks, grabbing them during your next in-person trip could save you a few bucks.
6. Meat and Deli Items
Meat pricing on delivery apps can be especially tricky. Not only are prices often higher, but you may also be charged for estimated weights rather than actual package sizes. A pound of ground beef listed at $5.99 in-store might show up as $7.49 online, with no guarantee of the exact weight. Deli meats and rotisserie chickens are also frequently mispriced or unavailable. For the best value—and quality—it’s smart to shop the meat counter in person when possible.
Why It Pays to Compare Before You Click
The next time you’re tempted to order groceries from your phone, take a moment to compare prices with your local store’s website or weekly flyer. Many retailers now offer curbside pickup at in-store prices, which can be a smart compromise between convenience and cost. You can also use price comparison tools or browser extensions to spot inflated delivery app prices in real time. While delivery apps are great in a pinch, they’re not always the most budget-friendly option. Knowing which foods are commonly mispriced can help you make smarter choices—and keep more money in your wallet.
Have you noticed any surprising price differences between delivery apps and your local store? Share your experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear what you’ve found!
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