The American Grocery Store That Sells The Cheapest Ground Beef

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service, the average monthly price for ground beef in 2024 was $8.01 per pound. Ground beef prices in the U.S vary due to several factors including cattle supply, feed costs, consumer demand, quality certifications, sourcing, and even by individual brand. These various brands can offer unique strengths that might lead to cheaper prices. For instance, Costco's lamb chops are cheaper because it sources its lamb from New Zealand and Australia to reduce costs and retain quality.

Budget-conscious consumers looking for grocery shopping strategies to save money might want to consider switching their grocery store entirely. According to a 2024 survey by the kitchn comparing prices across 11 popular grocery items, one grocery store in particular provided significantly cheaper ground beef offerings. When comparing prices across three major grocery stores, Walmart, Aldi, and Trader Joe's, Aldi came out on top in terms of affordability. One pound of ground beef cost $5.64 at Walmart, and $4.99 at Trader Joe's — but just $4.79 at Aldi.

Consumers can experience significantly different ground beef prices depending on the exact kind of beef they are shopping for. For 80% lean ground beef, Aldi offers a pound for $4.59, compared to Walmart's 80% Lean / 20% fat ground beef at $6.33 per pound and Trader Joe's for $4.99. For consumers opting for 85% lean 15% fat, Aldi beef was priced at $5.99 per pound, while Walmart was priced at $6.32 per pound, and Trader Joe charges $7.49 per pound. 

For leaner options, 90% lean ground sirloin sells for $6.49 at Aldi for 2 pounds, whereas Walmart charges $7.28 for one pound. The leanest option, 96% ground beef, is about $8.46 per pound at Walmart, $7.49 at Trader Joe's, and $6.99 at Aldi. However, it's worth noting that prices can differ based on location. Regardless, you can make sure to save even more money by using some clever money-saving tricks at Aldi .

There is a lot to know about why Aldi's meat is so cheap. For starters, the reason Aldi is able to offer the cheapest ground beef can be traced to its unique business model. The brand has an inventory of only about 1,700 items, which is less than the 31,000 items typically found in major supermarkets. This not only simplifies the brand's operations but also helps to keep its costs low — which is reflected in the price of products like ground beef. Also, more than 90% of products at Aldi are private label, which reduces marketing and distribution costs associated with brand-name goods.

Aldi also keeps its meat prices low by sourcing locally across the U.S. This cuts down on transportation costs and ensures the meat is fresher and higher-quality. Plus, this practice supports regional agriculture, and by extension, the local economy.