Grocery Spending in Plymouth: What to Expect
Living in Plymouth, 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 Plymouth is about $550 per month. This covers essentials like milk, eggs, bread, meat, produce, and household items. However, grocery prices in Plymouth can vary by up to 20% depending on where you shop and whether you buy organic.
For budget-minded shoppers, discount grocers like Aldi offer prices up to 30% lower than traditional supermarkets. On the flip side, upscale markets like Lunds & Byerlys feature premium, organic, and specialty items at higher price points. Most residents find a middle ground at regional chains like Cub Foods and Hy-Vee, which offer a mix of everyday value and quality.
Item-by-Item Cost Snapshot
To give you a sense of what groceries cost in Plymouth, here’s a table of common items and their average prices:
| Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 gallon) | $3.50 |
| Eggs (1 dozen) | $2.75 |
| Bread (1 loaf) | $2.50 |
| Chicken Breast (1 lb) | $4.00 |
| Ground Beef (1 lb) | $5.50 |
| Rice (1 lb) | $1.50 |
| Apples (1 lb) | $2.00 |
| Potatoes (5 lb bag) | $3.00 |
Note: Prices may vary seasonally. Eggs and produce often rise in cost during summer months in Plymouth.
Where People Shop in Plymouth
Plymouth offers a range of grocery options to fit different budgets and preferences. The major chains in the area include:
- Premium: Lunds & Byerlys, Whole Foods, Kowalski’s
- Mid-Range: Cub Foods, Hy-Vee, Target
- Discount: Aldi, Walmart, Costco
Many residents mix and match, using premium stores for specialty items, mid-range for weekly shopping, and discount for pantry staples. Local co-ops like Lakewinds also attract shoppers seeking organic, local, and bulk foods.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Saving on Groceries
With some smart strategies, it’s possible to trim your grocery spending in Plymouth without sacrificing quality or nutrition. One of the best ways is to sign up for loyalty programs at your go-to stores. For example, the Cub Foods Rewards program offers personalized coupons and points that add up to significant savings.
Buying in bulk at warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club can also cut costs, especially on non-perishables and household goods. And don’t overlook the power of couponing, either with old-school newspaper circulars or digital apps like Ibotta and Checkout51.
Tip of the Section: Use Aldi’s bulk bins for pantry staples like rice, beans, and oats to save 30-50% compared to pre-packaged.
Grocery Costs vs. Dining Out
Cooking at home using groceries is almost always cheaper than dining out. In Plymouth, an average meal out costs $12-$25 per person. That means a couple would spend $24-$50 on a single restaurant meal vs. $5-$10 on a home-cooked meal using groceries.
Of course, eating out is still an enjoyable treat. But if you’re looking to control your food spending, focusing on home cooking with smart grocery shopping is the way to go. With some savvy strategies, a couple can easily keep their monthly grocery budget under $500.
FAQ: Plymouth Grocery Costs
Is it cheaper to shop in bulk in Plymouth?
Yes, buying pantry staples, meats, and household goods in bulk quantities from Sam’s Club or Costco can save you 20% or more compared to regular package sizes at traditional supermarkets.
What’s the most affordable grocery store in Plymouth?
Aldi consistently has the lowest prices on groceries in Plymouth, with savings of up to 30-40% over other stores. Walmart is another affordable option, especially for non-perishables.
How much do groceries cost monthly in MN?
For a family of two in Minnesota, a moderate grocery budget is around $550 per month. Thrifty shoppers may spend as little as $400, while liberal budgets can go up to $700+.
Is food more expensive in Plymouth compared to other cities?
Grocery prices in Plymouth are roughly on par with the overall cost of living, which is about 20% higher than the national average but typical for the Twin Cities metro area. Cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul have similar food costs.
How can I spend less on groceries in Plymouth?
The best ways to save are to shop at discount stores like Aldi, buy in bulk, use coupons and rebate apps, and cook mostly at home versus eating out. Meal planning and shopping with a list also prevent overbuying.
Smart Grocery Planning in Plymouth
For a family of two in Plymouth, a realistic monthly grocery budget is around $550, with $400 being thrifty and $700+ being liberal. With some strategic shopping across discount, mid-range, and premium stores, most couples can keep costs in check while still enjoying a varied, nutritious diet.
The keys are to take advantage of loyalty programs and coupons, selectively buy in bulk, and cook at home more often than dining out. With a bit of planning, it’s possible to maintain a reasonable grocery budget while still savoring the great food options Plymouth has to offer.
Ready to optimize your spending? Plug your numbers into our Plymouth cost of living calculator to see how your monthly expenses stack up and get personalized savings tips.