Thanksgiving dinner in 2025 is more affordable for many Americans, with the average cost for a classic homemade meal for 10 people now at $55.18—a 5% drop compared to last year, according to new data from the American Farm Bureau Federation. The main expense remains the turkey itself, averaging $21.50 for a 16-pound bird, while ingredients for traditional side dishes and desserts account for the rest of the budget.
2025 Cost Breakdown and Trends
- The 2025 Thanksgiving meal price marks the third consecutive year of decreases, though it remains higher than pre-pandemic levels and the 2020 average of $46.90.
- Sides like stuffing, potatoes, and pumpkin pie make up a notable portion of the total, but turkey cost drops and strong supply have helped keep overall expenses down.
- Regional variation persists: the West has the priciest average dinner at $61.75, while the South averages $50.01, the most affordable in the country.
- Some retailers like Walmart
- advertise ready-made meal deals for 10 people at less than $40, offering a convenient, low-cost alternative to traditional home-cooked spreads.
What’s Driving Costs This Year?
Lower turkey prices are credited to reduced production costs and increased bird supplies following last year’s avian flu outbreaks, but side dish ingredients still reflect lingering inflation and supply chain uncertainty.
Meal cost comparisons to catered or pre-cooked options show home cooking remains the best value per person in most regions, especially with judicious shopping and advance preparation.
Thanksgiving 2025 offers shoppers a rare bit of relief at the grocery store, letting more families celebrate with traditional fare for less than in recent years.