State Senator Dale Fowler | Illinois State Senator
State Senator Dale Fowler | Illinois State Senator
Thanksgiving, a time for gathering and enjoying a festive meal, brings with it the challenge of rising costs. While turkey prices have decreased, the overall expense of Thanksgiving dinner remains elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels.
In Illinois, hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for ten people costs an average of $62.84, positioning the state in the mid-range of affordability across the nation, as reported by GOBankingRates.
Turkey prices have seen some relief due to increased production and fewer avian flu cases. The average price for a 16-pound turkey has decreased to $25.67 this year from $27.47 last year. Despite this decrease, other traditional items like stuffing, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie mix remain more expensive than before the pandemic. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that overall food prices have risen by 25% since 2019, with Thanksgiving-specific items increasing by 19%.
To manage costs, families can take advantage of special deals offered by many retailers on holiday essentials and budget-friendly meal packages. Shoppers are advised to compare store-brand options with name brands for potential savings but should be aware of "shrinkflation," where package sizes are reduced while prices stay constant—a trend observed in products like frozen peas and green beans.
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