Lower costs for 2024 Thanksgiving feasts

Annual AFBF report shows decreased holiday meal prices

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the price of hosting Thanksgiving dinner for ten people has dipped to $58.08 this year, marking a decrease of about 5% from the previous year. Despite this recent decrease, the cost remains significantly higher by nearly 20% compared to five years ago.

This year's pricing survey indicates a mixed bag of cost adjustments across traditional Thanksgiving foods.

Notable increases include items like stuffing and dinner rolls, which rose by approximately 8%. The sharpest rise was observed in cranberry prices, increasing by 12%, a rebound to more typical levels after last year's unusual decline.

The price trends reflect broader economic issues, notably the slow pace of inflation reduction, which continues to impact the overall affordability of food.

This economic trend is not only a consumer issue but also a significant concern for the agricultural sector. Farmers and ranchers are encountering rising costs for essential supplies, even as forecasts suggest a sharp decrease in net farm income.

These findings highlight the complexity of food economics, influenced by both market conditions and global economic trends, and the ongoing impact on typical American households preparing for the holiday season.