Think Walmart Has the Cheapest Stores? These 6 Stores Are Actually Cheap
We have been conditioned to believe that Walmart is the undisputed king of low prices. But if you automatically drive to Walmart every Sunday to stock your fridge, you’re leaving serious money on the table.
According to the February 2026 price survey by Consumer Reports, Walmart is not the cheapest place to buy your groceries. In fact, it lost to a dozen other vendors.
Researchers partnered with the Strategic Resource Group to track prices across major US cities, comparing identical or comparable grocery baskets. The gap between the cheapest store and the most expensive store was more than 33%. That means your choice of supermarket can cost you hundreds of dollars a year.
If you want to stop overpaying for your weekly basics, it’s time to change your routine. Here are six grocery chains that beat Walmart on price.
6 stores that beat Walmart prices
1. Costco: Consumer Reports found that Costco’s groceries are on average 21.4% cheaper than Walmart’s. Yes, you have to pay an annual membership fee of $65 just to get in the door. But if you save more than 20% on your weekly grocery shopping, that money can pay for itself in a few weeks.
The secret is its bulk pricing and high quality Kirkland Signature store product. If you’re looking to maximize your grocery savings, there are many smart ways to make your Costco membership pay for itself.
2. BJ’s Wholesale Club: Coming in behind Costco, BJ’s undercuts Walmart’s prices by 21%. It operates on a warehouse model similar to Costco, requires a membership fee but offers deep discounts on bulk goods and its private label.
If you have a BJ’s closer to your house than a Costco, it’s a no-brainer to make the switch to your pantry staples.
3. Lidl: You don’t need a membership to shop this German-owned discount chain. Lidl beat Walmart by an average of 8.5%. It keeps prices low by using smaller stores, displaying food items in shipping containers, and prioritizing its private label products over national brands.
4. Aldi: The popular empty grocery store is 8.3% cheaper than Walmart. Aldi uses an efficient model, which involves shoppers bringing their own bags. You’ll find savings on a variety of foods, including produce, dairy, and baked goods.
5. WinCo: This employee-owned supermarket chain is 3.3% cheaper than Walmart. WinCo operates primarily in the western part of the United States. It doesn’t accept credit cards and you have to bring your own groceries, but the warehouse-style building and large bins mean you pay less for everyday basics.
6. HEB: The cult-favorite Texas supermarket chain underperformed Walmart by 0.2%. While that fraction of a percent may not sound like much, it can help you save. Check out HE-B’s famous tortillas, local produce, and huge selection.
The most expensive stores to avoid
If you’re trying to save money, the data is clear on where you shouldn’t buy. The same study found that Whole Foods is the most expensive grocery chain in America, with prices nearly 40% higher than Walmart. Regional chains like Jewel-Osco and Shaw’s were also 30% more expensive.
Set the operation on autopilot. The easiest money you’ll ever make is the money you stop blindly giving to the wrong supermarket. Choose one of the thrift stores on this list, learn about the best ways to reduce your grocery bill, write your shopping route, and start saving your extra money.
