VA Among Cheapest States To Buy Groceries, Study Says

VIRGINIA — As inflation continues to pinch the wallets of shoppers across the country, a new study revealed that Virginia is among the top 15 cheapest U.S. states to buy groceries.

The study by nutrition website Food Label Maker set out to reveal the states with the most affordable groceries. The analysis included comparisons to the national average, changes over the past two years and regional pricing trends.

Researchers also examined absolute costs per person and the percentage change in grocery prices from 2022 to 2024 to identify stability or volatility in pricing.

“With rising inflation, understanding where your state stands in terms of grocery affordability has never been more important," a Food Label Maker spokesperson said in a statement. "Consumers are increasingly focusing on stretching their budgets while prioritizing the quality and nutritional value of their purchases."

According to the study, Virginia is ranked No. 14, meaning shoppers are paying less for groceries here than consumers in most U.S. states.

Virginia has a grocery prices index of 96.1 and, according to the study, grocery prices have increased 26.05 percent over the last two years.

Texas came in first with the lowest grocery prices index of 90.3. The state’s grocery costs are 9.7% below the national average, making it the most affordable in the study.

Michigan and Kentucky showed some of the most stable prices, with minimal increases over the last two years.

Kansas also stood out for having the lowest per-person grocery costs in 2024 despite seeing a significant increase over the last two years, according to the study.