Thanksgiving dinner still costs alot more than it did four years ago, but down slightly in 2024

TRENTON, NJ – New Jerseyans are used to paying a lot more for everything, and this year, we’re still going to be paying more for Thanksgiving dinner than in years past, due in part to two years of climbing inflation. Although the rate of inflation has slowed, prices are still going up, especially here in the Garden State.

Thanksgiving dinner has always been a symbol of abundance, but in recent years, it’s also become a topic of economic debate as grocery prices have soared. While the average cost of the feast in 2023 has dropped slightly to $58, it’s still significantly higher than when Donald Trump took office in 2016, when the average price sat comfortably at $49.87. After adjusting for inflation, that 2016 cost was the lowest since 2010—a golden age for budget-conscious turkey lovers.

What’s Driving the Higher Prices?

The most dramatic price surge occurred between 2019 and 2022, when the average Thanksgiving dinner price jumped by nearly 40%. By 2022, the cost reached an all-time high of $64.05 for a family of 10. Experts point to supply chain disruptions, rising fuel costs, and bird flu outbreaks (which impacted turkey supplies) as culprits behind the spike.

While prices are down 9% from last year, thanks to easing inflation and better supply chains, this year’s cost still represents a roughly 30% increase compared to 2016. That’s a tough pill to swallow for families who’ve seen their grocery bills balloon across the board in recent years.

What’s in the $58 Feast?

The traditional survey includes everything you’d expect at a classic Thanksgiving table: a 16-pound turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a relish tray (carrots and celery), pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and beverages like coffee and milk. All of these are calculated in quantities sufficient to feed 10 people.

Keeping Costs Down

If you’re looking to save, there are a few ways to cut costs this year:

Shop sales early: Many grocery stores offer discounts or free turkeys if you spend a certain amount.
Skip the extras: Stick to the essentials if cranberry sauce or that relish tray isn’t a family favorite.
Go potluck: Share the burden by asking guests to bring a dish.

So while Thanksgiving dinner may not be as cheap as it was back in 2016, careful planning can help you keep costs under control and focus on what really matters—gravy. (And, of course, family!)

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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