The Cost of a Traditional Thanksgiving Meal in 2025
The cost of a classic Thanksgiving meal for 10 people is expected to be around $55.18 in 2025, according to recent estimates. This represents a 5% decrease compared to the previous year, marking a slight relief for many households preparing for the holiday. However, this overall decline does not mean that all ingredients have become cheaper. Some key items have seen price increases due to various economic factors, including inflation and supply chain issues.
On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, a visit to an Albertsons Market revealed the costs of essential Thanksgiving staples. The total for these items came out to $45.03, which is slightly below the average cost of the full meal. Here are some of the prices for key components:
- Whole Turkey: Approximately $28.74
- Cranberry Sauce: $2.99
- Sweet Potatoes: $1.79
- Traditional Stuffing: $3.79
- Pumpkin Pie: $6.00
- Turkey Gravy: $1.99
These prices provide a snapshot of what consumers might expect when shopping for their Thanksgiving dinner. However, the cost of turkey itself has been affected by rising production expenses and supply chain disruptions.
Rising Costs at Keller’s Farm Stores
At Keller’s Farm Stores, one of New Mexico’s largest providers of fresh, smoked, and roasted meats, the price of turkeys has increased significantly. The current rate is $4.38 per pound, up from previous years. Mike Phillips, the owner of Keller’s Farm Stores, explained that the increase is due to higher production costs and inflation.
“We book our birds in February and set a price then. We monitor it through the summer, and it didn’t change. However, the price is about 10% higher this year than it was last year,” Phillips said. As a small local business, Keller’s Farm Stores cannot absorb the increased costs and must pass them on to customers.
Inflation and Its Impact on Consumers
Economists and experts have noted that inflation continues to affect the purchasing power of New Mexicans. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, inflation has risen by 3%, the highest level since January 2025. This increase has made everyday purchases more expensive, even if some items like Thanksgiving meals appear to be slightly cheaper.
Reilly White, an economist and professor at the University of New Mexico, highlighted how inflation impacts consumers differently. “Even though sources like the American Farm Bureau suggest a moderate decline in prices, the reality for many people is that their budgets are stretched thin. Prices don’t always feel like they’re going down year over year,” White explained.
White also pointed out that certain items have seen significant price increases over the past few years. For example, pie shells have gone up by 39% since 2020, and sweet potatoes have risen by 37% compared to last year. Turkeys, another staple of the Thanksgiving meal, have also been affected by bird flu outbreaks, which have led to the culling of nearly 4 million birds this year.
What Does This Mean for Thanksgiving?
While the overall cost of a Thanksgiving meal may have decreased slightly, the impact of inflation and other economic factors means that many families are still feeling the strain. The rising cost of turkeys and other essential ingredients can make the holiday more challenging for some households.
Despite these challenges, there are still ways to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal without breaking the bank. Shopping at local stores, planning ahead, and being mindful of price fluctuations can help reduce the financial burden.
For those looking to stay informed about the latest news and updates, there are several resources available. Whether it's checking local news outlets or using mobile apps, staying connected can help individuals make informed decisions about their holiday preparations.
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