Saving MoneyGuide
Aldi vs. Walmart: How to Compare Grocery Prices in 2026
No chain is always cheaper. Build a comparable basket, read unit prices and weigh store brands and package sizes to see which store wins for you.
Photo by Franki Chamaki on Unsplash
This article is for general information. Figures and examples are illustrative and can change; check the linked sources before making decisions.
Short answer: there is no honest one-line answer to "Aldi or Walmart, which is cheaper?" Prices change by store, state, week, package size and product. What you can do is build a basket of the 20–30 items you really buy, write down the unit price at each store on the same day, and add it up. That tells you which store is cheaper for you, right now.
What this article does not do: we have not compared specific current prices. We couldn't verify a dated, reproducible price list, so instead of publishing numbers that would be out of date, we give you the method.
Five steps
- Pick your basket: milk, eggs, bread, rice, pasta, chicken, bananas, canned tomatoes, cereal, coffee, paper towels.
- Define the equivalent product: "large eggs, dozen", "whole milk, gallon". Compare like with like, such as store brand against store brand.
- Record price, size, store and date, using each store's website or app for your ZIP code.
- Calculate the unit price (per ounce, pound or each) with the calculator below.
- Add up each store's basket, and repeat now and then.
A template to copy
| Equivalent item | Aldi (unit price) | Walmart (unit price) |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk, 1 gallon | ||
| Large eggs, 1 dozen | ||
| Spaghetti, per lb | ||
| Chicken breast, per lb | ||
| Basket total |
What can tilt the result
Aldi has a smaller selection, mostly store brands, while Walmart carries many national brands too. One week's sale isn't a yearly pattern. If you order online, add fees and minimums. And if one store is much farther away, the savings may shrink.
So which is cheaper?
It often depends on the category: one store may win on staples and another on certain brands. Some people split their shopping between two. For more ways to cut the total, read how to save money on groceries.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aldi always cheaper than Walmart?
No, and we won't claim that. It depends on what you buy and where you live.
How often should I compare?
A few times a year, or when you notice your grocery bill changing.
