8 creative ways to save money on groceries

With food prices already high and continuing to increase, it’s more important than ever to find ways to cut costs — without sacrificing quality.

Experiencing sticker shock at the grocery store is becoming all too familiar. Even though inflation has moderated over the past year, Americans are still paying more for the same items.

Indeed, food prices surged by 23.6 percent between 2020 and 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In January alone, the cost of groceries rose by 0.5 percent —including a staggering 15 percent increase on eggs. Experts predict food-at-home prices will continue to rise, with another 3.2 percent increase expected this year.

On top of that, research shows that families waste more than 31 percent of the food they purchase, which costs them an average of $1,500 annually.

In an uncertain economy, where every dollar counts, it’s crucial to have a plan to keep your grocery spending in check. Here are eight practical tips to help you save the next time you load up your cart.

1. Set a grocery budget

This may seem simplistic, but deciding ahead of time exactly how much you can afford to spend each week will help you avoid overspending, even when prices fluctuate. Start by reviewing your past grocery spending to establish a realistic weekly or monthly budget.

The U.S. Bank Mobile App can make tracking your grocery expenses easier. It allows you to monitor purchases in real time, categorize them and set specific savings goals for the month. You can also set up a separate savings account just for groceries. By moving money into this account regularly, you’ll have a set amount ready for your grocery expenses and won’t accidentally dip into other funds.

If you’re not sure where to start, the USDA publishes different cost of food reports based on family size and income, which can serve as a helpful reference. 

Want a tool to help you stay organized? Check out this customizable grocery budget template.

2. Make a meal plan — and a list

While making a meal plan may take a little time, it can save you a lot of money in the long run. Knowing exactly what you’re going to eat during the week allows you to shop only for what you need. It can also help you avoid making extra trips to the store or ordering expensive takeout for dinner.

Plus, a meal plan encourages you to use fresh produce and other perishable foods before you forget about them and ultimately have to throw them away.

After you map out your meal plan, create a shopping list. Making a list — and sticking to it —cuts down on impulse buys, which add unneeded dollars to your grocery total. Organize your list by sections of the supermarket so you don’t forget anything.

3. (Re)discover coupons for food

Coupons might seem like a relic of a bygone era, but they are indeed still a valuable tool for saving money. These days, you don’t have to literally clip paper coupons (though you can still find them in many Sunday newspapers). Instead, many grocery chains have digital coupons on their websites or apps.

Large consumer goods companies often provide rewards, memberships or coupons for their products, while coupon websites offer plenty of opportunities to save.

Search for savings on items you need for your meal plan — or build your meal plan around what’s discounted that week. Stock up on nonperishable goods when sales occur, then incorporate them into your meal rotation. 

4. Buy generic or store brands

Store brands are often made by the same manufacturers as well-known name brands — but cost much less. Why? Because generics don’t spend money on advertising or splashy packaging. You may be loyal to certain products and don’t want to go off-brand for those, but many other generics can be easily subbed in to help you save some money.

5. DIY what you can

Making certain foods from scratch that you would normally buy can be a creative way to pinch some pennies. For example, soaking and cooking your own beans takes time, but dried beans are usually cheaper than canned ones. You can also save some dough by trying your hand at homemade bread and other baked goods, granola, sauces, hummus, pizza, nut butter, breadcrumbs and croutons. Even just a few swaps can help. 

6. Try cashback, loyalty or rewards tools

You may be able to take advantage of credit card reward programs through your bank, like U.S. Bank cards that earn cash back or points on purchases, along with other great perks. By combining these rewards with store loyalty programs and digital coupons, you can maximize your savings even further. 

7. Change up your protein

Meat can often be the most expensive item in your grocery cart. To save money and add variety to your meals, consider swapping out some of your usual protein choices. Turkey can be a more affordable alternative to other meats, and there are plenty of other budget-friendly, protein-rich options to explore. Try beans, lentils, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, quinoa, oats, protein-packed pastas, or even canned tuna and other fish for cost-effective ways to meet your protein needs.

8. Don’t forget frozen

Fresh fruits and veggies are great, but frozen ones pack the same nutritional punch, last longer, are available out of season and usually cost less. Not going to use fresh produce before it goes bad? Pop it in a freezer bag to use later.

When you’re cooking, make a double batch of soups, casseroles or other freezer-friendly foods to save for later. Your future self will thank you.

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