Stretching Your Grocery Budget: Smart Finds at the Dollar Store

Stretching Your Grocery Budget: Smart Finds at the Dollar Store


November 21, 2023 | Miles Brucker

Stretching Your Grocery Budget: Smart Finds at the Dollar Store


Grocery Store or Dollar Store?

A sad woman grocery shoppingDrazen, Adobe Stock

Advertisement

In an era where grocery bills are steadily climbing, savvy shoppers are constantly seeking ways to stretch their dollars further. With the rising costs of everyday items, exploring all avenues for savings has become more crucial than ever.

Among these options, dollar stores often emerge as an unexpected gem for certain grocery items. 

However, it's essential to discern when these stores offer real value and when they might end up costing more, depending on your needs and the products in question.

Canned Goods

Weird Family Habits factsFlickr, leosaumurejr

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per can Average Price at Grocery Stores: $1.50 - $2 per can

Canned goods like beans, vegetables, and soups are typically cheaper at dollar stores. You might find similar or even identical brands as in regular grocery stores, but at a lower price.

However, pay attention to size – sometimes, the cans at dollar stores might be smaller, making the per-unit cost similar or even higher than grocery stores.

Spices

Worst Guests factsPexels

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per container Average Price at Grocery Stores: $3 - $5 per container

Spices are an excellent find at dollar stores. While the variety might be limited, basic spices like garlic powder, cinnamon, and paprika are often available at a fraction of the cost.

The quality might not match premium brands, but for everyday cooking, they are a budget-friendly option.

Cleaning Supplies

Fire Me, I Dare You factsShutterstock

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per item Average Price at Grocery Stores: $2 - $5 per item

For basic cleaning supplies like sponges, dish soap, and all-purpose cleaners, dollar stores can offer significant savings.

While they may not carry the big-name brands, the quality for everyday cleaning is generally comparable.

Snacks and Candy

False Accusations factsShutterstock

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per package Average Price at Grocery Stores: $1.50 - $4 per package

Snacks and candy are often cheaper at dollar stores, but the catch is in the quantity. The packages might be smaller than those at grocery stores, so it’s important to check if you’re really getting a better deal per ounce or gram.

Greeting Cards and Gift Wraps

Toxic familyPexels

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per item Average Price at Grocery Stores: $3 - $5 per item

Greeting cards and gift wraps are undeniably cheaper at dollar stores and the quality is often comparable to what you would find in a grocery or specialty store.

This is an area where dollar stores truly shine in terms of value for money.

Bread and Baked Goods

Grocery storeAdobe Stock

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per item Average Price at Grocery Stores: $2 - $4 per item

Bread and other baked goods like bagels and rolls can be a good buy at the dollar store. However, it’s important to check the expiration dates as these items might be closer to their sell-by date than those in grocery stores.

Personal Care Items

Fight Club factsPixabay

Advertisement

Average Price at Dollar Stores: $1 per item Average Price at Grocery Stores: $2 - $6 per item

For basic personal care items like toothpaste, soap, and shampoo, dollar stores can offer significant savings. However, the sizes may be smaller and the selection limited compared to grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

Cash in handsShutterstock

Advertisement

Dollar stores can be a treasure trove for certain items, offering significant savings on everyday essentials. However, it's crucial to compare prices and sizes to ensure you're getting the best deal.

By being a savvy shopper and knowing what to buy (and what to avoid), you can make the most of your grocery budget in these challenging times.


READ MORE

Internalfb Image

Collectors Items That Now Aren't Worth Beans

Once-valuable treasures can lose their shine as trends fade. There are so many "vintage" items that now serve as relics. Check out how once-prized collectibles became surprisingly worthless, and let us know if you agree.
January 31, 2025 Alex Summers

The Most Rewarding Jobs For Extroverts Who Love The Outdoors

If you love the outdoors but have been stuck in an office cubicle for most of your professional life, this list of the most rewarding jobs is for you.
March 31, 2025 Jack Hawkins

The Cash-Only Approach: 12 Purchases Worth Every Penny

Explore the financial wisdom of using cash in a digital age. Dive into twelve scenarios where paying with tangible money offers benefits that cards simply can't match, from supporting local businesses to securing better deals.
October 31, 2023 Allison Robertson
amazon_internal

Amazon Is Under Fire After Federal Investigators Discover Unsafe Conditions At Warehouses

This month, Amazon was served a major safety citation after federal investigators found multiple of its warehouses operating under unsafe work conditions.
January 31, 2023 Eul Basa
moneyinternal

How To Find Cheap Dental Implants

A perfect smile doesn't have to be expensive. Find out how to get affordable dental implants near you with these simple tips.
January 31, 2023 Eul Basa

The Most Bizarre Things That Sold High At Auctions

Whether it’s pure nostalgia, obsession, or just plain curiosity, these bizarre items prove that, at the right auction, anything can become a treasure.
March 31, 2025 Binet


Disclaimer

The information on MoneyMade.com is intended to support financial literacy and should not be considered tax or legal advice. It is not meant to serve as a forecast, research report, or investment recommendation, nor should it be taken as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or adopt any particular investment strategy. All financial, tax, and legal decisions should be made with the help of a qualified professional. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, or outcomes associated with the use of this content.





Dear reader,


It’s true what they say: money makes the world go round. In order to succeed in this life, you need to have a good grasp of key financial concepts. That’s where Moneymade comes in. Our mission is to provide you with the best financial advice and information to help you navigate this ever-changing world. Sometimes, generating wealth just requires common sense. Don’t max out your credit card if you can’t afford the interest payments. Don’t overspend on Christmas shopping. When ordering gifts on Amazon, make sure you factor in taxes and shipping costs. If you need a new car, consider a model that’s easy to repair instead of an expensive BMW or Mercedes. Sometimes you dream vacation to Hawaii or the Bahamas just isn’t in the budget, but there may be more affordable all-inclusive hotels if you know where to look.


Looking for a new home? Make sure you get a mortgage rate that works for you. That means understanding the difference between fixed and variable interest rates. Whether you’re looking to learn how to make money, save money, or invest your money, our well-researched and insightful content will set you on the path to financial success. Passionate about mortgage rates, real estate, investing, saving, or anything money-related? Looking to learn how to generate wealth? Improve your life today with Moneymade. If you have any feedback for the MoneyMade team, please reach out to [email protected]. Thanks for your help!


Warmest regards,

The Moneymade team