Consumers may be pleased to find that Thanksgiving dinner prices have decreased this year, with the average cost per person down by 5% compared to last year, according to a survey conducted by the Illinois Farm Bureau.
The national average price for a 16-pound frozen turkey has dropped by 16.3% from last year, bringing it to $21.50, or $1.34 per pound, making turkeys the most affordable part of the meal this year. In Illinois, the average price for the same turkey is even lower at $18.03.
The reason behind these lower prices lies in a combination of factors, including reduced consumer demand for turkey due to lower prices and less farms affected by diseases such as avian influenza. As a result, retailers have been able to offer special deals on turkeys to drive sales and encourage people to shop at their stores.
Larger grocery stores tend to benefit the most from these price drops, as they can negotiate better prices for bulk purchases. The Illinois Farm Bureau notes that this makes it easier for families to find affordable options for Thanksgiving dinner.
However, some side dishes may be more expensive than usual, with sweet potatoes rising by 37% and veggie trays jumping by 61%. These increases are attributed to various factors, including hurricane damage and supply chain disruptions.
Overall, the survey suggests that consumers can enjoy a more budget-friendly Thanksgiving dinner this year, with an average cost of $49.20 for a 10-person meal.
The national average price for a 16-pound frozen turkey has dropped by 16.3% from last year, bringing it to $21.50, or $1.34 per pound, making turkeys the most affordable part of the meal this year. In Illinois, the average price for the same turkey is even lower at $18.03.
The reason behind these lower prices lies in a combination of factors, including reduced consumer demand for turkey due to lower prices and less farms affected by diseases such as avian influenza. As a result, retailers have been able to offer special deals on turkeys to drive sales and encourage people to shop at their stores.
Larger grocery stores tend to benefit the most from these price drops, as they can negotiate better prices for bulk purchases. The Illinois Farm Bureau notes that this makes it easier for families to find affordable options for Thanksgiving dinner.
However, some side dishes may be more expensive than usual, with sweet potatoes rising by 37% and veggie trays jumping by 61%. These increases are attributed to various factors, including hurricane damage and supply chain disruptions.
Overall, the survey suggests that consumers can enjoy a more budget-friendly Thanksgiving dinner this year, with an average cost of $49.20 for a 10-person meal.
I mean, who doesn't love saving cash on that all-important bird? It's like the universe decided to gobble up those prices so we can all have a more affordable feast. 
But seriously, it's awesome that the prices dropped by 16% - I'm pretty sure even the Grinch would be smiling about that one! 
And yay for grocery stores getting in on the action, too! It's great when they can offer better deals to help families keep it real with their Thanksgiving budgets. Just a heads up, though: don't expect those side dishes to be super affordable... sweet potatoes are up 37% - yikes! 
Guess we'll just have to get creative with our veggies or find some other way to sneak 'em in without breaking the bank 
I gotta say, it's great to see turkey prices take a hit! I was getting ready for another pricey holiday meal 
. But seriously, $18.03 for a 16-pound turkey is crazy cheap! 
. Can't wait to see what other deals we get in store 
!
. I remember last year I spent way too much on that one bird just 'cause it was a special occasion... not again this year 
.
. I mean, sweet potatoes are already my fave, but 37% is a bit steep even for a foodie like me 
BUT SERIOUSLY, THE PRICES FOR TURKEYS ARE LIKE, SUPER LOW RIGHT NOW! $21.50 FOR A 16-POUNDER IS LIKE, UNBELIEVABLE! 
. And what's up with veggie trays going up by 61%? Did we really need more overpriced snack options for Thanksgiving? 
the good news is that turkey prices are down which makes me happy cos my aunt always expects us to get her the most expensive cut 
. Anyway, $49.20 for a 10-person meal is still pretty reasonable, I guess. Can't go wrong with the classics, but it's always nice to have options 