How much of your average monthly expenses should be spent on groceries

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – The latest national data shows the average American household spends about $6,440 each month. While that total includes housing, transportation, health care, and other essentials, it also offers valuable insight for everyday grocery shoppers trying to manage rising costs.

Why this matters for grocery shoppers

Food is one of the few budget categories you can adjust week to week. Understanding where your household stands compared to national spending trends can help you:

• Spot overspending more easily
  If your grocery bill is climbing faster than other areas of your budget, it might be time to rethink where and how you shop.

• Shift money toward what matters most
  Knowing the baseline helps you decide whether your food budget is realistic or whether small adjustments could free up room for savings.

• Plan shopping trips with intention
  When you know your monthly spending target, it’s easier to avoid impulse purchases and stretch each trip further.

The common guideline that groceries should make up about 10%–15% of take-home income comes from national spending data analyzed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, USDA food-cost plans, and widely used financial budgeting frameworks that rely on those figures.

This means the typical recommended grocery range is: 

Per Month: $644–$966

Per Week: $160–$240

Simple ways to use this information

• Consider creating a monthly budget to track your expenses
• Compare your spending with the average to identify areas of improvement
• Use Youdle to gain insights on grocery trends and find ways to save more

Remember, every dollar counts when it comes to budgeting. By being aware of the average household expenditure, you can make smarter decisions that can positively impact your wallet.

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