Thanksgiving 2025 is shaping up to be more expensive for many households, thanks to rising turkey prices. According to a recent USDA report, wholesale frozen turkey prices are expected to hit $1.32 per pound this year—a 40% increase from 2024’s average of 94 cents. The surge comes after several outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in late 2024 and early 2025, which affected over 400,000 birds in North Dakota and South Dakota.
Today reports that while these wholesale figures influence what consumers ultimately pay, retailers have some flexibility in pricing. Many are aware that families want to celebrate without breaking the bank.
Turkey Prices Reach New Highs
This year, the total number of turkeys raised is forecasted at 195 million, a 3% decline from 2024. The drop in supply, combined with continued demand for holiday meals, has driven turkey prices upward. In addition, the egg shortages caused by avian influenza outbreaks have compounded costs, making the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner more expensive than many expected.
Despite the challenges, grocers are offering ways to ease the financial burden. Aldi, for example, introduced a Thanksgiving meal deal earlier this month that serves ten people for under $47. The bundle includes a Butterball turkey with spices, gravy, rolls, mac and cheese, stuffing, and the ingredients to make cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie.
Shoppers Find Creative Ways To Offset Turkey Prices
Walmart has also responded with a Thanksgiving meal bundle priced at less than $4 per person. The 10-person package features 20 items, including a 13.5-pound Butterball turkey, dinner rolls, mac and cheese, stuffing, and more. Notably, this bundle remains available through December 25, giving cost-conscious families an option for Christmas dinner as well.
For those watching their budgets, these meal deals demonstrate that even with rising turkey prices, smart planning can help maintain a festive table without overspending. Many shoppers are already exploring these bundled offers to offset higher costs and enjoy holiday traditions without financial stress.