Groceries were a hot topic across all five boroughs last week, as New Yorkers scrambled to stock up ahead of the incoming snowstorm. Typical staples like bread, milk and eggs flew off the shelves at record speed, leaving many shoppers wondering if they’d be able to get what they needed. And with another storm potentially brewing, it looks like this frenzy might not be a one-time event.
Of course, preparing for the snow comes at a cost, and we’re not just talking about frozen fingers from lugging bags home in the bitter cold. According to a recent study by Visual Capitalist, New York ranks among the most expensive states in the U.S. for weekly groceries.
This might not surprise anyone who has shopped in the city for a while. The study notes that grocery prices in New York have been steadily rising, with an average annual increase of 6.1%. Is this a sign to grab your BEC from the corner bodega rather than cooking at home? Maybe.
🛒 How does New York rank among states for grocery cost
New York comes in at number 11 nationwide, nestled between South Dakota and Idaho, with residents spending an average of $121 per week on groceries. While that’s certainly steep, it pales in comparison to the top spots: Hawaii and Alaska, where weekly grocery costs soar to $157 and $152, respectively.
The silver lining? Despite its high ranking, New York’s weekly grocery bill is only slightly above the U.S. average of $118. And when it comes to annual price increases, New York’s 6.1% actually falls just below the national average of 6.3%. In other words, while groceries here are pricey, they’re not dramatically outpacing the rest of the country.
So yes, New Yorkers may be paying a premium for their pantry staples, but there’s a tradeoff: cooking dinner in one of the greatest cities in the world, amid the energy, culture, and endless inspiration of our favorite place, is an unforgettable experience. And getting to experience it nearly every night? Absolutely priceless.