Date: June 1, 2025
I decided to test out Aldi and Walmart, taking a weekly grocery list and a $150 budget for my family of four. While many prices were comparable, Aldi usually offered the items I needed at lower prices.
Despite my total being about $27 higher at Walmart, I preferred the shopping experience there.
Summary:
- I took my regular grocery list to Aldi and Walmart with a $150 budget.
- Prices were similar, but Aldi generally had lower prices for the items I needed.
- Walmart’s total was $27 more, but I found the shopping experience more enjoyable.
My family’s grocery bill has been rising due to inflation and my kids eating more. I spend approximately $150 weekly on groceries, purchasing proteins, snacks, cereal, and fresh produce.
Sticking to my budget is essential, so I occasionally change where I shop. I visited my local Aldi and Walmart to compare prices, selection, and shopping experiences.
Comparison Insights:
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Produce Prices and Quality:
- Initially, the produce prices and quality appeared similar.
- Prices for broccoli and bell peppers were almost identical, with only a minor price difference.
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Savings on Specific Items:
- Aldi had much cheaper potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
- A bag of small yellow potatoes was over $1 less at Aldi.
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Buying Options:
- Aldi didn’t allow purchasing single onions; I had to buy a bag instead.
- Walmart offered individual onions, which I preferred to avoid waste.
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Protein Options:
- Skirt steak was notably cheaper at Aldi ($6.99 per pound vs. $11.42 at Walmart).
- Chicken thighs were less expensive at Walmart ($1.58 per pound vs. $2.19 at Aldi).
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Pasta and Cereal Selection:
- Both stores offered pasta at the same price, but Walmart had a broader selection.
- Cereal choices felt limited at Aldi, and the boxes were generally smaller.
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Fruit Snacks:
- Aldi provided organic fruit snacks at a better price than Walmart.
- Shopping Experience:
- I preferred shopping at Walmart due to the ease of cart usage and self-checkout options.
- Aldi required a quarter to use carts, which was inconvenient.
Overall, I spent about $27 more at Walmart, coming in slightly under my $150 budget at both stores. While Aldi could save me more money in the long term, I preferred the shopping experience at Walmart. For now, my budget aligns better there, but I would consider Aldi for serious savings.