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Minnesota Ranks 15th for Grocery Affordability

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 20:54 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - February 21st, 2026 - A recent WalletHub study reveals Minnesota residents are among the most frugal in the nation when it comes to grocery spending, ranking 15th in the country for affordability. The analysis, which factors in both average monthly grocery bills and household income, paints a picture of a state where residents manage to keep food costs relatively low despite ongoing inflationary pressures.

The report indicates the average Minnesotan household spends $324.85 per month on groceries, a figure notably below the national average of $352.17. Coupled with an average household income of $80,789 per year, this places Minnesota in a strong position relative to other states. While seemingly a small difference, consistently lower monthly grocery costs can significantly impact a family's overall financial health, freeing up funds for other essential expenses or savings.

Regional Disparities: The South and Midwest Lead in Affordability

The WalletHub study highlights a significant geographic trend: states in the South and Midwest generally exhibit lower grocery costs compared to those on the coasts. The top ten states with the lowest grocery bills are dominated by these regions, with Mississippi, Alabama, and Oklahoma leading the pack. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including lower cost of living, agricultural production within the region, and transportation costs.

Conversely, states on the coasts, particularly Hawaii and Alaska, consistently rank as the most expensive for groceries. High transportation costs, limited local agricultural production, and overall higher cost of living contribute to these elevated prices. States like New York, Maryland, and California also feature prominently in the top ten most expensive list, reflecting the higher cost of goods and services in densely populated, metropolitan areas.

Minnesota's Standing Among its Neighbors

Minnesota's relatively affordable grocery landscape extends to its neighboring states. Wisconsin, Iowa, and North Dakota all ranked lower than Minnesota on the list, coming in at 22nd, 25th, and 28th place respectively. This suggests a broader trend of affordability in the upper Midwest, likely linked to strong agricultural sectors and relatively stable transportation networks.

The Persistent Impact of Inflation

Even with Minnesota's favorable ranking, the report acknowledges the ongoing challenge of inflation affecting grocery bills across the nation. While the state may be better positioned to absorb these price increases due to lower baseline costs, consumers are still feeling the pinch. Recent years have seen fluctuations in food prices driven by factors like supply chain disruptions, geopolitical events, and increased demand. The impact of these fluctuations varies significantly depending on location and consumer purchasing habits.

Looking Ahead: Strategies for Grocery Savings

For Minnesota residents looking to further optimize their grocery spending, experts recommend several strategies. These include meal planning, utilizing coupons and discounts, shopping seasonally, and comparing prices at different stores. Increasingly, consumers are turning to private label brands and bulk buying to reduce costs. The rise of online grocery shopping also offers opportunities for price comparison and access to deals.

The Bigger Picture: Food Security and Access

While the WalletHub report provides valuable insights into grocery affordability, it's crucial to remember that cost is only one aspect of food security. Access to healthy, nutritious food remains a significant challenge for many families, particularly in underserved communities. Food deserts, where access to fresh produce and affordable groceries is limited, continue to be a persistent problem. Addressing these inequities requires a multi-faceted approach, including increased investment in local food systems, improved transportation infrastructure, and targeted support programs for low-income families.

Ultimately, Minnesota's ranking as a relatively affordable state for groceries is a positive sign. However, continued vigilance and proactive measures are necessary to ensure that all residents have access to affordable, nutritious food and are shielded from the full brunt of ongoing economic pressures.