Thanksgiving costs rise with 70% price increase on turkey
Thanksgiving costs are set to rise significantly this year, with wholesale turkey prices soaring by 70% compared to 2024, driven by factors such as avian flu and reduced production. While other traditional feast items have seen smaller price fluctuations, a survey indicates that overall expenses for Thanksgiving celebrations will be the highest ever for Americans. Notably, Walmart claims its Thanksgiving dinner bundle costs 25% less than last year, although it includes fewer items than previously. These price dynamics reflect broader economic pressures and raise concerns about affordability as the holiday approaches.
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Wholesale turkey prices have jumped to $1.68 per pound this year, a marked increase from 99 cents per pound in 2024, reflecting a significant supply chain impact.
A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that the financial outlay for Thanksgiving, including food and gathering costs, is expected to be the most expensive on record.
In New York City, the overall price for a typical Thanksgiving dinner has risen by 23%, indicating regional variations in cost increases.
David Anderson, an economist at Texas A&M's AgriLife Extension Service, noted that grocery stores typically have pricing strategies in place for the Thanksgiving season, which may mitigate some consumer concerns.
Donald Trump referenced Walmart's announcement of a 25% decrease in the price of its Thanksgiving bundle, but critics pointed out that the bundle has been reduced from 21 items last year to just 15 this year, questioning the validity of the price comparison.