Grocery Spending in Matthews: What to Expect
Living in Matthews, you might be wondering: How much will your monthly grocery expenses run? Here’s a breakdown for a family of two in 2025. The average grocery bill for a couple in Matthews is about $550 per month. However, grocery prices in Matthews can vary by up to 20% depending on where you shop and whether you buy organic.
Matthews offers a mix of national grocery chains and local specialty markets. While the big-box stores like Walmart tend to have the lowest everyday prices, smaller grocers like Harris Teeter often run sales that can save you just as much, especially if you’re flexible on brands. Local produce stands and farmers markets are also great options for affordable, fresh fruits and vegetables in Matthews.
Of course, your actual monthly grocery spend will depend on your dietary preferences, brand loyalty, and how often you cook at home vs. eating out. But for a typical couple in Matthews, budgeting around $500-600 per month for groceries is a realistic starting point. From there, you can adjust up or down based on your household’s unique needs and habits.
Item-by-Item Cost Snapshot
To give you a more specific idea of what everyday groceries cost in Matthews, here’s a table showing average prices for common items at major chains (Walmart, Food Lion) vs. local markets (Harris Teeter, Sprouts):
| Item | Chain Price | Local Price |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1 gal.) | $3.50 | $4.25 |
| Eggs (1 doz.) | $2.00 | $3.00 |
| Bread (1 loaf) | $2.50 | $3.50 |
| Chicken breast (1 lb.) | $3.00 | $4.50 |
| Rice (1 lb.) | $1.50 | $2.00 |
| Apples (1 lb.) | $1.75 | $2.25 |
Note: Prices may vary seasonally. Eggs and produce often rise in cost during summer months in Matthews.
Where People Shop in Matthews
Matthews residents have plenty of options when it comes to grocery shopping. The main chains in town include:
- Walmart Supercenter (discount)
- Food Lion (mid-range)
- Harris Teeter (premium)
- Aldi (discount)
- Lidl (discount)
For specialty items, organic produce, and gourmet goods, locals often shop at:
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Whole Foods Market
- Matthews Community Farmers Market (seasonal)
While the big chains offer convenience and low prices across the board, the smaller markets are go-tos for harder-to-find items and local flavor. Many shoppers in Matthews browse the weekly ads and split their shopping between a superstore like Walmart and a neighborhood grocer or farmers market.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Saving on Groceries
No matter where you prefer to shop in Matthews, there are always ways to save on groceries. Taking advantage of store loyalty programs is one of the easiest ways to get exclusive discounts and earn rewards over time. Most major chains, including Food Lion and Harris Teeter, offer free membership cards that regularly give you access to sale prices and let you accrue points toward future purchases.
Buying staple items in bulk, clipping coupons, and using rebate apps like Ibotta or Checkout 51 can also add up to major savings. And of course, opting for store brands over premium labels is an easy way to trim your grocery bills without sacrificing quality.
Tip of the Section: Take advantage of Matthews’ local produce stands and farmers markets, especially during summer when fruits and veggies are at their peak. You’ll get the freshest seasonal ingredients at unbeatable prices, often straight from NC growers.
Grocery Costs vs. Dining Out
While a monthly grocery budget of $500-600 may sound like a lot for two people, it’s quite reasonable compared to what you’d spend regularly dining out in Matthews. An average meal out costs $12-15 per person, so even grabbing a quick bite twice a week can easily add $200+ to your monthly food spending.
By planning your meals around grocery shopping and home cooking, you have much more control over your budget (and nutrition). Even with occasional splurges on premium ingredients, you’ll almost always spend less at the store than you would at a restaurant for comparable meals.
FAQ: Matthews Grocery Costs
Is it cheaper to shop in bulk in Matthews?
Yes, buying pantry staples and non-perishables in bulk is a great way to save money in Matthews. Look for deals at Walmart, Costco, or Sam’s Club.
What’s the most affordable grocery store in Matthews?
For overall lowest prices in Matthews, it’s hard to beat Walmart, Aldi, and Lidl. Food Lion is also very budget-friendly, especially if you use their loyalty card.
How much do groceries cost monthly in NC?
According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, a typical family of two in North Carolina spends about $430 per month on groceries. In Matthews, the average is closer to $550.
Are organic groceries more expensive in Matthews?
Yes, organic items tend to cost 20-30% more than conventional groceries in Matthews stores. However, you can often find organic produce for less at local farmers markets.
Smart Grocery Planning in Matthews
By understanding the local grocery landscape and using some savvy shopping strategies, it’s totally possible to eat well in Matthews without breaking the bank. Whether you’re loyal to a particular store or you like to shop around, just remember to plan ahead, buy in season, and don’t be afraid to go generic. With a monthly grocery budget of around $550, a couple can enjoy diverse, nutritious meals while still having room for the occasional treat.
Of course, grocery costs are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to budgeting for life in Matthews. Can You Afford to Live in Matthews? Check out our Monthly Budget Guide for a full breakdown of expenses like housing, utilities, transportation, and more.