Mapped: U.S. Cities Where People Spend the Most and Least on Groceries
This infographic ranks where Americans spend the most and least on groceries, as a share of median household income. The data for this visualization comes from WalletHub.
Where Groceries Cost the MostMidwestern and Southern cities with lower household incomes see a greater share of paychecks going toward essentials. Meanwhile, wealthier coastal cities, despite higher sticker prices, experience less financial strain due to higher median earnings.
Detroit ranks highest, with groceries taking up 3.78% of median monthly income. With a median household income of roughly $39,575, everyday essentials weigh heavily on family budgets.
Where Groceries Cost the MostMidwestern and Southern cities with lower household incomes see a greater share of paychecks going toward essentials. Meanwhile, wealthier coastal cities, despite higher sticker prices, experience less financial strain due to higher median earnings.
Detroit ranks highest, with groceries taking up 3.78% of median monthly income. With a median household income of roughly $39,575, everyday essentials weigh heavily on family budgets.
Cities like Cleveland (3.77%) and Birmingham (3.28%) also rank near the top, reflecting similar economic pressures.
Where Groceries Are Most Affordable
At the other end, affluent cities like Fremont, California (0.96%) and San Jose (1.16%) spend the smallest share on groceries. Strong local wages make routine expenses feel lighter. California dominates this list, with seven of the 10 “most affordable” cities located in the state.
Where Groceries Are Most Affordable
At the other end, affluent cities like Fremont, California (0.96%) and San Jose (1.16%) spend the smallest share on groceries. Strong local wages make routine expenses feel lighter. California dominates this list, with seven of the 10 “most affordable” cities located in the state.
Sky-High Grocery Costs
Overall, U.S. food prices are more than 2% higher this year compared to 2024, and they could rise even further as a result of the Trump administration’s tariff policies.
In 2024, $221 billion in food was imported, with the top three by volume being liqueurs and spirits, baked goods, and coffee.
Overall, U.S. food prices are more than 2% higher this year compared to 2024, and they could rise even further as a result of the Trump administration’s tariff policies.
In 2024, $221 billion in food was imported, with the top three by volume being liqueurs and spirits, baked goods, and coffee.
