Grocery Spending in Denver: What to Expect
If you’re a couple living in Denver, CO, it’s important to have a realistic sense of your monthly grocery prices. In 2025, the average grocery bill for a household of two adults in Denver is about $550 per month. However, grocery prices in Denver can vary by up to 20% depending on where you shop and whether you buy organic.
When budgeting for groceries, keep in mind that prices fluctuate throughout the year. Many staples like eggs, milk, and fresh produce tend to rise in cost during the summer months in Denver. Planning ahead and shopping strategically can help you control your food spending.
Item-by-Item Cost Snapshot
To give you a more specific idea of grocery prices in Denver, here’s a table showing common items and their average costs:
| Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 gallon) | $3.89 |
| Eggs (1 dozen) | $3.29 |
| Bread (1 loaf) | $3.49 |
| Chicken breast (1 lb) | $4.99 |
| Rice (1 lb) | $1.79 |
| Apples (1 lb) | $2.29 |
| Potato chips (13 oz) | $4.29 |
Note: Prices may vary seasonally. Eggs and produce often rise in cost during summer months in Denver.
Where People Shop in Denver
Denver offers a wide range of grocery store options, from premium organic markets to budget-friendly chains. Major retailers in the area include:
- Premium: Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Sprouts
- Mid-range: King Soopers, Safeway, Trader Joe’s
- Discount: Walmart, Target, Aldi
Where you choose to shop can significantly impact your total monthly grocery spending in Denver. Stores like Whole Foods and Natural Grocers tend to have the highest prices, while Walmart and Aldi are known for more affordable options.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Saving on Groceries
If you’re looking to trim your monthly grocery budget in Denver, there are several strategies you can use:
- Sign up for loyalty programs at your go-to stores to earn rewards and access exclusive deals
- Buy pantry staples and non-perishables in bulk at warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club
- Use coupons and money-saving apps like Ibotta to get cash back on purchases
- Compare prices between stores and stock up during sales
🏆 Tip of the Section: Use WinCo’s bulk bins for pantry staples and cut your grain costs in half.
Grocery Costs vs. Dining Out
While cooking at home is generally more cost-effective than dining out, it’s still helpful to compare grocery prices to restaurant tabs. In Denver, an average meal out costs $18–$25 per person, which can quickly add up.
By shopping wisely and preparing more meals at home, a couple in Denver can realistically keep their monthly food budget under $600. That’s a significant savings compared to eating out regularly.
FAQ: Denver Grocery Costs
Still have questions about grocery prices in Denver? Here are a few common ones:
- Is it cheaper to shop in bulk in Denver? Buying pantry items and non-perishables in bulk is often more cost-effective, especially for larger households. However, perishables bought in bulk may go to waste if not eaten quickly enough.
- What’s the most affordable grocery store in Denver? Walmart and Aldi tend to have the lowest prices in Denver, beating out other chains by 10-20% on average.
- How much do groceries cost monthly in CO? For a couple in Denver, a typical monthly grocery budget is $500-$600. Larger families can expect to spend $800+ per month on food.
Smart Grocery Planning in Denver
By understanding the landscape of grocery prices in Denver, you can plan your food budget more accurately. For most couples, allocating $550-$600 per month for groceries is a safe bet, assuming you cook most meals at home.
Choosing affordable stores, buying in bulk, and capitalizing on deals can easily shave 10-20% off your grocery bills. For more tips on managing your monthly expenses in Denver, check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Denver Residents.