Anyone who's set foot in a supermarket this year knows that prices have skyrocketed. The shock remains in 2025. But the surprise is that the worst offenders aren't the giants that usually dominate the conversation.
Some boutique chains can empty your wallet faster than Costco or Walmart, according to price data. Before you head out to run errands at your top-level supermarket, it's worth reading this: your shopping could cost you more than you think.
The top-level supermarket club
Erewhon, the most expensive supermarket in Los Angeles, tops every list. Its strawberries reach $19 and its smoothies cost more than a full lunch. Not far behind is Whole Foods, which still charges between 10% and 20% more than traditional stores for basic products, despite being owned by Amazon.
Erewhon, the most expensive supermarket in Los Angeles | Billion Photos, Getty Images Pro
The Fresh Market, an East Coast favorite, sells olive oil at $1.66 per oz. (47.1 g), three times more than at Walmart. Gelson’s, in California, charges 81 cents per oz. (28.3 g) of Tillamook cheddar cheese, compared to 39 cents in large supermarkets.
Bristol Farms keeps boneless chicken near $9 per lb. (0.45 kg), almost double that of mass markets. In short, the combination of atmosphere and craft-made labels makes these stores the most expensive in the country.
The real position of Walmart and Costco
Neither Walmart nor Costco appear at the top-level. Costco offers large packages and exclusive memberships, keeping unit prices low on basic products. Walmart, without memberships, stands out for convenience and competitive prices, being the cheapest store in eight states, including New York and California.
Costco's basket versus Walmart's
GOBankingRates compared products like oatmeal, coffee, applesauce, olive oil, macaroni and cheese, and rice on June 24, 2025. The total at Costco: $102.44. At Walmart: $174.86, 75% more expensive.
The secret: Costco sells in large quantities (24.3 lbs. (11 kg) of rice, 9.9 lbs. (4.5 kg) of oatmeal). If you adjust it for a small family, the difference drops. The choice depends on your pantry space and your patience.
Costco has moderate prices | Google Maps, Costco
Meet the five frugal ones
Lidl: 81.4% of shoppers choose it for the price.
WinCo Foods: 73.1% prefer it for its no-membership warehouse model.
Grocery Outlet: 71.4% shop for clearance deals.
Aldi: 70% highlight low prices and simplicity.
Market Basket: favorite in New England for competitive prices.
Incorporating even one of these discounts can save between 20% and 40% on your weekly shopping.
Why a supermarket may seem expensive or cheap
The perception depends on your shopping basket. Organic products, large bags, or the supermarket's location can change your bill instantly.
Costco is unbeatable for large families, but less attractive for those living in a studio. Target doesn't always succeed in Texas, where HEB dominates.
