Six Grocery Chains Beat Walmart on Price, Study Finds

Walmart is not the cheapest place to buy groceries. A February 2026 Consumer Reports study found six chains consistently priced lower across major U.S. cities.

Costco leads the list-groceries average 21.4% cheaper than Walmart’s, despite its $65 annual membership. Bulk pricing and Kirkland Signature drive the savings.

BJ’s Wholesale Club follows closely at 21% cheaper, operating on a similar warehouse model with membership required.

Lidl, the German discount chain, beats Walmart by 8.5%-no membership needed. Its lean operations and private-label focus keep costs low.

Aldi ranks 8.3% cheaper. Its no-frills model-bag-your-own, limited brands-delivers consistent savings on produce, dairy, and staples.

WinCo, employee-owned and concentrated in the West, is 3.3% cheaper. It accepts cash only and uses bulk bins and warehouse layouts.

H-E-B, Texas-based and locally revered, edges out Walmart by 0.2%-notable for fresh tortillas, regional produce, and scale.

Whole Foods was the most expensive-nearly 40% pricier than Walmart.