The price of a turkey varies depending on factors like store promotions, turkey type (frozen, fresh, or organic), and local demand. With Thanksgiving around the corner, many retailers offer deals to make turkeys affordable, and some even have programs to get a free turkey with a qualifying purchase.
Average Costs for Turkeys
Turkey Type |
Average Price per Pound (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
Frozen Turkey |
$0.79 – $1.49 |
Commonly available at Walmart and Target; often less expensive |
Fresh Turkey |
$1.49 – $2.99 |
Higher price but preferred for flavor; available at Whole Foods |
Organic or Kosher Turkey |
$2.99 – $3.49 |
Ideal for specialty diets; tends to be more expensive at stores like Trader Joe’s |
During holiday promotions, Walmart and Target offer standard frozen turkeys at $0.79 to $1.19 per pound, while Whole Foods has fresh turkeys starting around $1.49 per pound for Prime members
Free Turkey Programs with Grocery Rewards
Many grocery stores have seasonal programs that allow shoppers to earn a free turkey by meeting certain spending thresholds:
- ShopRite: Spend $400 between October 15 and November 23 to get a free frozen turkey (up to 21 pounds) or a comparable holiday item, such as a ham
- BJ’s Wholesale Club: Members who spend $150 in a single transaction by November 14 can redeem a free Butterball turkey
- Weis Markets: Accumulate 400 Weis Rewards Points to receive a free Weis Quality Frozen Turkey or qualify for a discounted price per pound with fewer points
- WinCo Foods: Shoppers spending $125 or more from November 18 to November 27 can pick up a free Jennie-O frozen turkey at checkout
These promotions can be a cost-effective way to secure a Thanksgiving turkey without additional spending, especially for households already planning substantial grocery purchases.
Tips to Save on Turkey
- Shop Early: Many retailers start their promotions in early November, so planning ahead can help ensure availability.
- Compare Local Ads: Weekly ads often include turkey specials. Local stores may adjust prices to match or beat larger retailers.
- Check for Membership Deals: Retailers like Costco and BJ’s offer members-only savings that can reduce per-pound costs on premium brands.
With costs averaging from $0.79 to $3.49 per pound, planning and taking advantage of rewards programs can help you find a turkey that fits both your budget and holiday meal needs.