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Thanksgiving Dinner Costs Expected to Drop for Third Straight Year, Farm Bureau Survey Finds

Washington, D.C. – Thanksgiving dinner will be more affordable this year, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) 40th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey. The survey estimates the average cost of a classic Thanksgiving feast for 10 people at $55.18, or about $5.52 per person, a 5% decrease compared to 2024.

This marks the third consecutive year of price declines after hitting a record high in 2022. The primary driver of the lower cost is a significant drop in turkey prices. A 16-pound frozen turkey averages $21.50, or $1.34 per pound, down more than 16% from last year. While wholesale prices for fresh turkey have risen, grocery stores are offering deals to boost consumer demand, leading to lower retail prices.

“It’s encouraging to see some relief in the price of turkeys, as it is typically the most expensive part of the meal,” said AFBF Economist Faith Parum, Ph.D. “Farmers are still working to rebuild turkey flocks that were devastated by avian influenza, but overall demand has also fallen. The combination will help ensure turkey will remain an affordable option for families celebrating Thanksgiving.”

The AFBF’s survey includes traditional Thanksgiving staples such as turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream. While some items like dinner rolls and stuffing are also cheaper due to lower wheat prices, others like fresh vegetables and sweet potatoes have seen price increases due to factors like weather events and labor shortages.

“We are blessed to live in a country that is capable of producing such an abundant food supply, and for that we should be thankful,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. Duvall also emphasized the challenges facing farmers, urging Congress to address economic conditions to ensure the stability of the agricultural sector.

The survey also examined an expanded Thanksgiving menu, including boneless ham, Russet potatoes, and frozen green beans, which brings the total cost to $77.09.

Regional price variations were also noted, with the South being the most affordable region for both the classic and expanded menus.

The AFBF has conducted the Thanksgiving dinner survey since 1986 to track comparative holiday meal costs over time.

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