HOUSTON – As Houston families grapple with stubborn grocery inflation, even small price differences add up fast. A KPRC 2 News price comparison found that a simple basket of staples can swing nearly $4 depending on where you shop—making store choice a critical factor in stretching household budgets.
Grocery prices have risen more than 3% nationally over the past year and 2.5% across the Houston area, according to the latest Consumer Price Index data.
Families are increasingly feeling the pressure at checkout. A typical family of four now spends approximately $200 weekly on groceries.
To help consumers find the best deals, KPRC 2 News conducted a price comparison across five major Houston grocery chains, comparing prices of five essential items: chicken, milk, eggs, bread, and rice.
Price Comparison Results:
- H-E-B: $17.61
- Aldi: $19.09
- Fiesta Mart: $19.28
- Walmart: $20.62
- Kroger: $21.24
The results show H-E-B offering significant savings, with a price difference of $1.48 compared to the next lowest competitor, Aldi.
The difference between the lowest and highest priced retailers was $3.63, with Kroger coming in at the highest total.
Shopping Strategy Tips:
- Different stores excel in different categories
- For example, H-E-B offered the lowest prices on chicken and rice but had the highest milk prices
- Plan ahead by comparing weekly specials across stores
- Consider shopping at multiple stores for the best deals on specific items
The study reveals that strategic shopping across different retailers could yield the best savings for budget-conscious consumers.
As inflation continues to impact grocery prices, comparing prices and monitoring weekly specials becomes increasingly important for Houston families looking to maximize their grocery budgets.