According to an August AP-NORC poll, Americans remained stressed at the grocery aisle, with 86% citing food prices as a continued source of financial anxiety. With grocery prices continuing to rise — 2.2% over the last year based on July’s Consumer Price Index– it’s no wonder that sticker shock has many shoppers looking for deals at the supermarket.
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To help readers with their grocery decisions, GOBankingRates compared prices at two stores known for their reasonable prices. Here’s what $50 worth of Trader Joe’s groceries will cost at Target.
Organic Whole Milk
Trader Joe’s: $6.49 (half gallon)
Target: $4.29 (half gallon)
A staple in most households, milk is noticeably pricier at Trader Joe’s. Unless you’re specifically loyal to Trader Joe’s organic line, Target shoppers can save two dollars a gallon.
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Pasture Raised Eggs
Trader Joe’s: $5.99
Target: $6.19
The price difference on eggs between the two stores is small — just $0.20. Target’s eggs are slightly more expensive, but the gap is narrow enough for shoppers to decide based on preference. Those who prefer cage-free or organic options might still lean toward Trader Joe’s.
Whole Wheat Bread
Trader Joe’s: $2.49
Target: $1.89
The difference isn’t huge here, but over time it adds up. Trader Joe’s breads are known for their artisanal varieties, while Target’s store-brand whole wheat covers the basics for less.
Cereal
Trader Joe’s: $2.69
Target: $3.39
This is one of the few wins for Trader Joe’s. Its private-label cereals undercut many of Target’s name-brand boxes, making it a smart place to stock up on breakfast staples.
Boxed Mac and Cheese
Trader Joe’s: $.99
Target: $.69
Both stores keep this pantry classic affordable. Target edges out Trader Joe’s by a few cents, though fans swear by TJ’s version for its creamier sauce.
Cheddar Cheese
Trader Joe’s: $3.99 per block
Target: $1.99 per block
Dairy is one of the categories where Target shines. While Trader Joe’s offers unique cheese selections, if you’re looking for standard cheddar, Target is nearly half the price.
Organic Skinless Chicken Breasts, 1-lb
Trader Joe’s: $7.49
Target: $4.99
Protein shoppers will feel the difference here. Target’s chicken breast is significantly cheaper, though Trader Joe’s often emphasizes hormone-free and antibiotic-free options.
80/20 Ground Beef, 1-lb
Trader Joe’s: $5.49
Target: $6.99
This is one of the cases where Trader Joe’s comes out ahead, if only slightly. Still, the price gap is small enough that brand preference might drive the choice.
Hamburger Buns
Trader Joe’s: $2.99
Target: $1.59
Cookout essentials are cheaper at Target. Trader Joe’s offers gourmet twists — like brioche buns — but for the basics, Target saves you nearly a dollar.
Dried Spaghetti, 1-lb
Trader Joe’s: $.99
Target: $.99
A dead heat. Pasta lovers can pick either store without worrying about the budget.
Marinara Sauce
Trader Joe’s: $1.99
Target: $1.79
Another tie. Both stores offer reliable store-brand pasta sauces that won’t bust the budget.
Avocado
Trader Joe’s: $1.49
Target: $.69
Target holds the best deal.
Cherry Tomatoes
Trader Joe’s: $4.99
Target: $4.99
Another tie. Fresh produce is often a strength for TJ’s, and cherry tomatoes are a good example of how TJ’s offers quality salad fixings for less.
Strawberries
Trader Joe’s: $3.99
Target: $3.19
A classic fruit basket item is a smidge cheaper at Target. Families who go through berries quickly will notice the difference.
Final Tally
Trader Joe’s: $52.06
Target: $43.66
While Trader Joe’s offers some notable wins, like cereal and eggs, Target comes out ahead on most staples, especially dairy, meat, and produce. For budget-conscious shoppers, that gap adds up quickly across multiple grocery runs.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: What $50 In Groceries at Trader Joe’s Will Cost You at Target
