What does a week of groceries really cost? It depends on household size, location, and how you shop. This guide shares sample budget breakdowns for singles, couples, and families—and how to hit your target. Use our MealPrepBudgeter calculator to customize.
Single Person: $50–80/Week
Protein: $15–25 (chicken, eggs, ground meat). Produce: $12–18. Dairy: $8–12. Pantry staples: $10–15. With meal prep and store brands, $60–70 is realistic. See ultimate grocery list and $100 weekly challenge—you may come in under $100 easily.
Couple: $80–120/Week
Double the single budget for most categories. Bulk buying helps—larger packages have better unit prices. Plan meals together to avoid waste. $100/week is a common target. See creating a list that cuts impulse buys.
Family of 4: $150–200/Week
Protein: $40–60. Produce: $35–50. Dairy: $20–30. Pantry and other: $40–60. Kids add snacks, milk, and more volume. Meal planning and batch cooking are essential. See plan meals around sales and best budget stores.
Sample Weekly Breakdown (Couple)
| Category | Amount | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | $35 | 35% |
| Produce | $25 | 25% |
| Dairy | $15 | 15% |
| Pantry/Other | $25 | 25% |
| Total | $100 | 100% |
Factors That Change the Number
Location (urban vs rural), diet (organic, special needs), and store choice. Discount stores can cut 20–30%. Meal prep reduces waste. Eating out is separate—this is groceries only. Track for a few weeks to find your baseline, then set a target. Use our calculator to model different scenarios.