Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Drops to $55.18, Lowest Since 2021, American Farm Bureau Reports

The average cost of a classic Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people has decreased to $55.18, marking a 5% reduction from last year and the lowest price recorded since 2021. This data comes from the American Farm Bureau Federation's (AFBF) 40th annual informal survey, which tracks the cost of traditional holiday meal ingredients. The survey, conducted by volunteer shoppers across all 50 states and Puerto Rico during the first week of November, found that turkey prices were a significant factor in the overall decline.

According to the AFBF, the average price for a 16-pound frozen turkey is $21.50, down more than 16% from the previous year. AFBF Economist Faith Parum, Ph.D., noted that while farmers are rebuilding turkey flocks impacted by avian influenza, a decrease in overall demand has also contributed to more affordable turkey options for consumers. This reduction in turkey cost, which historically accounts for a large portion of the meal's expense, helped offset increases in other items.

Despite the overall decrease, prices for some individual ingredients saw notable increases. Sweet potatoes rose by 37% and veggie trays by 61%, partly due to natural disasters affecting yields and supply. Conversely, items like dinner rolls and stuffing mix saw price reductions, with low wheat prices contributing to the decline in flour-based products. The AFBF's classic meal includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream.

The $55.18 average for 2025 is a continuation of a downward trend from a record high of $64.05 in 2022. While the cost is lower than in recent years, it remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. The AFBF survey also offers an "expanded meal" option, including boneless ham, Russet potatoes, and frozen green beans, which totals $77.09 for 10 people. Regional variations also exist, with the South typically offering the most affordable Thanksgiving meals compared to the West and Northeast.