Grocery Spending in Ontario: What to Expect
Compared to the national average, grocery prices in Ontario, CA tend to be slightly higher for most staple items. The average grocery bill for a couple in Ontario is about $550 per month, assuming a mix of cooking at home and some prepared foods. Grocery prices in Ontario can vary by up to 20% depending on where you shop and whether you buy organic.
For a typical two-adult household in Ontario, expect to spend around $500-600 monthly on groceries if you primarily cook at home using a combination of fresh and shelf-stable ingredients. This factors in some higher-priced items like meat and produce balanced out by pantry staples. Eating a plant-based diet or heavily using coupons and store specials can bring this figure down by $100 or more.
Ontario grocery costs are impacted by the inland location, which means slightly higher prices for items like fresh fish and imported perishables compared to coastal areas. However, locally grown produce is often very affordable, especially when purchased in season from places like the Ontario Farmers Market.
Item-by-Item Cost Snapshot
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect to pay for common grocery items in Ontario as of 2025:
| Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 gal.) | $4.29 |
| Eggs (1 doz. large) | $3.79 |
| Bread (1 loaf) | $3.49 |
| Chicken breast (1 lb.) | $4.99 |
| White rice (1 lb.) | $1.99 |
| Apples (1 lb.) | $2.29 |
| Potato chips (10 oz.) | $3.99 |
Note: Prices may vary seasonally. Eggs and produce often rise in cost during summer months in Ontario.
While not the cheapest in the state, Ontario’s grocery prices are on par with many other inland Southern California cities. Savvy shoppers can find deals by comparing stores, using coupons, and stocking up during sales. Buying pantry items in bulk and getting produce at the Ontario Farmers Market can also help keep costs down.
Where People Shop in Ontario
Ontario has a good mix of major grocery chains, natural food stores, ethnic markets, and budget-friendly retailers. Some of the most popular places to buy groceries in Ontario include:
- Premium: Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market
- Mid-range: Albertsons, Stater Bros., Ralphs
- Discount: Walmart Supercenter, WinCo Foods, Aldi
Specialty markets like Cardenas, Super King, and 99 Ranch offer a wide selection of international ingredients at competitive prices. For affordable organic staples, Trader Joe’s is a local favorite, while Costco is popular for bulk buys among large households.
Ontario also has a thriving network of local farm stands and community gardens where you can find seasonal produce, honey, eggs, and more. The Ontario Farmers Market at Town Square runs year-round and features over 60 vendors selling fresh, locally grown foods at great prices.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Saving on Groceries
With some smart strategies, it’s possible to trim your grocery spending in Ontario without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Here are a few of the best ways to save:
🏆 Tip of the Section:
Use WinCo’s bulk bins for pantry staples and cut your grain costs in half.
Other reliable cost-cutting tactics include:
- Signing up for free store loyalty programs
- Using cash-back apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51
- Buying non-perishables in bulk at Costco or Sam’s Club
- Shopping weekly deals and clearance racks
- Meal planning around affordable seasonal ingredients
With a little planning and flexibility, an Ontario couple can realistically shave 15-20% off their monthly grocery bill. Even just cooking at home more often instead of eating out can make a big impact.
Grocery Costs vs. Dining Out
While Ontario’s grocery prices may be slightly higher than the national average, the cost of dining out is even steeper. An average meal out in Ontario costs $18–25 per person, not including tip or drinks.
For a couple, two restaurant meals per week can easily add up to $300+ per month. In contrast, that same amount could cover 60% of a typical monthly grocery budget, with plenty left over for the occasional takeout night.
By cooking more meals at home using ingredients from the grocery store, Ontario couples can save hundreds of dollars each month while still enjoying delicious, satisfying food. Even with occasional splurges on dining out, centering your food budget around groceries is almost always the more affordable choice.
FAQ: Ontario Grocery Costs
Is it cheaper to shop in bulk in Ontario?
In most cases, yes. Buying pantry staples, paper goods, and cleaning supplies in bulk from stores like Costco or Sam’s Club can net you significant savings. Just be sure to compare unit prices and only buy what you’ll actually use to avoid waste.
What’s the most affordable grocery store in Ontario?
While prices fluctuate, WinCo Foods consistently ranks as one of the cheapest places to buy groceries in Ontario. Aldi is another top pick for budget shoppers, while Walmart offers competitive prices on a wide selection.
How much do groceries cost monthly in CA?
According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult in California needs to budget at least $285 per month for groceries. For a couple, this works out to around $570 per month on the low end. In metro areas like Ontario, this figure is often closer to $600-650.
Smart Grocery Planning in Ontario
For most couples in Ontario, a realistic monthly grocery budget falls between $500 and $650, depending on shopping habits. With some savvy cost-cutting strategies, it’s very possible to keep your bill on the lower end of that range without feeling deprived.
No matter your budget, the key is planning ahead. Taking stock of what you have, creating a meal plan, and shopping with a list can help you avoid impulse buys and wasted food. Comparing prices between stores, stocking up during sales, and cooking mostly at home will also keep more money in your pocket.
By being mindful about where and how you shop, it’s entirely possible to eat well in Ontario without overspending. For more tips on budgeting for groceries and other essentials, check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Ontario Residents.