November 5, 2026
Thanksgiving is three weeks away, and the grocery bill is expected to be higher than last year. According to consulting firm PwC, the average American family should expect to pay about $90 for Thanksgiving dinner, compared with $88 last year.
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What Costs More
PwC said turkey will cost nearly 8% more than last year, while a smaller cranberry harvest and higher production costs will push cranberry prices up nearly 15%. For context, the Farm Bureau’s survey last year found an average 16-pound frozen turkey cost $21.50. If that rose about 8%, the same bird would cost roughly $23 this year (our estimate).
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What Costs Less
There is some good news. Butter is down 10% and cream is down 6%, which helps offset some of the increases.
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Store Deals Already Out
Aldi is promoting a Thanksgiving basket for a party of 10, including a 16-pound turkey, sides and a pumpkin pie, for under $39. Sam’s Club has a meal deal at about $160 that can feed up to 16 people. Deal availability and prices can vary by store and location, so check your local listings.
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How Shoppers Are Adapting
PwC’s consumer-markets leader said families are managing budgets closely and more shoppers are using AI tools to compare prices and find discounts. Experts also suggest shopping early for shelf-stable items that often go on sale ahead of the holiday.
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Tips to Save
Buy shelf-stable ingredients now while they are discounted.
Compare store basket deals before building your own menu.
Consider a smaller turkey or turkey breast if your guest list is small.
Stock up on butter and cream while prices are lower.
What to Watch Next
The Farm Bureau published its annual Thanksgiving survey on November 19 last year. A new national average should arrive in the coming weeks. We will update this story when it does.
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Key Takeaways
PwC expects the average Thanksgiving dinner to cost about $90, up from $88.
Turkey is up nearly 8% and cranberries nearly 15%.
Butter and cream are cheaper.
Store basket deals and early shopping can lower your bill.
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