Turkey prices soar high ahead of Thanksgiving: Where to find the best deals

Thanksgiving is just weeks away, and this year’s holiday table may cost more than usual. The US turkey flock has shrunk to its lowest level in 40 years, with the USDA forecasting total production of 4.8 billion pounds, a 5 per cent drop from 2024. Lingering bird flu outbreaks and supply-demand pressures are adding to the squeeze, pushing the wholesale price of frozen turkeys up 38 cents per pound, to $1.32 per pound, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. While officials say there should be enough turkeys for shoppers, families should be prepared to pay more for their holiday centerpiece, Axios reports.

Why turkey prices are rising

Turkey prices are climbing this holiday season largely due to the ongoing H5N1 bird flu outbreak, which has swept through farms across the US in recent weeks. According to USDA data, the virus has affected 6.46 million birds in the last 30 days alone, including nearly 514,000 turkeys, with outbreaks reported in Iowa, South Dakota, Minnesota, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Utah, and Washington.

The bird flu has had a broader impact since 2022, affecting more than 180 million farmed and wild birds nationwide. The virus has even spilled over into dairy herds across 18 states, underscoring the ongoing strain on US agriculture and contributing to tighter supply, a key factor behind rising turkey prices.

Where to get the lowest prices on Thanksgiving turkey

With America’s biggest eating event just weeks away, grocery competition is heating up as retailers look to attract budget-conscious shoppers amid rising turkey prices. Several major chains are offering deals to help families save on their holiday meals.


Walmart

Even as the US faces its smallest turkey flock in decades, Walmart is cutting prices and expanding its holiday meal offerings. The retailer’s Thanksgiving meal basket, serving 10 people, is priced under $40, or less than $4 per person, about $3 cheaper than last year. The bundle includes Butterball turkeys at $0.97 per pound, the lowest price since 2019, along with a mix of national-brand products.

Aldi

Discount grocer Aldi is offering a similar deal, with a $40 Thanksgiving meal for 10 people, which includes a 14-pound turkey and ingredients for nine side dishes, including stuffing, mac and cheese, and pumpkin pie.

Sam’s Club

Walmart-owned Sam’s Club is keeping its Member’s Mark Feast bundle steady at under $100 for 10 people, the same as last year, but now with an extra side included.