When it comes to consumer confidence, egg prices continue to take center stage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price for a dozen Grade A eggs finally began to decline in April, after reaching a record high in March of 2025.1 Despite recent dips, egg prices remain stubbornly high, along with a number of other grocery items putting a strain on consumers’ wallets. Rising manufacturing costs, supply chain disruptions, and corporate profits are among the reasons food prices, which are up 31% since 2019, remain elevated. Higher tariffs on some imported foods are expected to further fuel cost increases.2 So what, if anything, can consumers do to rein in costs and stay on budget?
While making ends meet has become increasingly difficult for consumers across the board, it’s particularly challenging for those trying to manage costs on a fixed income in retirement. Below are five ways to help take the bite out of high grocery prices:
- Take advantage of senior discount days. Most large grocery chains and some local and regional stores offer a senior discount once a week, enabling older shoppers to save as much as 5% to 10% on their grocery bill.
- Scan weekly flyers for sales on the items you regularly buy. If you have the extra space, stock up on items that freeze well, along with non-perishable foods, and supplies, such as bottled water, soda, paper towels, laundry, and cleaning products.
- Clip those digital coupons! Digital apps have made it easier than ever to save more at your favorite stores. By setting up online accounts at the stores you frequent the most, you can clip coupons on your phone, laptop, or tablet, before you head out to the store or while shopping.
- Plan weekly meals ahead. Planning meals ahead can save time and money. Going to the store armed with a list of the items you need can also reduce impulse purchases, which can add up quickly, especially if you're hungry when you get to the store.
- Don’t knock generic brands – at least until you try them. In many cases, store brands are simply private-labelled products from the brand name manufacturers you already know, minus the marketing costs.
1“U.S. egg prices fall for the first time in months but remain near record highs.” 14 MAY 2025,NPR.org,https://www.npr.org/2025/05/14/nx-s1-5397827/egg-prices-drop-inflation-bird-flu.
2“After Years of High Prices, Will Tariffs Reignite Food Inflation?” 13 MAY 2025, Nerdwallet.com, https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/price-of-food.
This information was edited by Kris Kennedy, and written by KRW Creative Concepts, a non-affiliate of the broker-dealer.
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