21 Most Expensive Grocery Stores in the US and Beyond in 2025

Identifying the most expensive grocery stores is key to knowing where you should — or shouldn’t — shop.

For some, this guide will be key to knowing where to avoid. Especially since the USDA reports that grocery spending in 2024 continued to rise for the average household (a trend that’s only set to continue), meaning more people than ever are being mindful of where they source the food for their table. 

Of course, for others, high-end grocery stores sell a few luxury items that they simply can’t be without. 

Whether you’re hoping to avoid expensive food shops or are curious to know where you can find the finer things in life, welcome. In this guide, we’ll explore the most expensive grocery stores across the United States.

We’ll then take a look at those around the globe, before revealing which takes the title of the world’s most expensive grocery store. Ready? Let’s get started.

 Jump to Section

• The 14 Most Expensive Grocery Stores in the United States
• The Most Expensive Grocery Stores in the World
• What Is the Most Expensive Grocery Store in the US?
• What Is the Most Expensive Grocery Store in the World?

The 14 Most Expensive Grocery Stores in the United States

1. Erewhon

Originating in Boston circa 1966, Erewhon is now a high-end fixture in LA, providing affluent patrons (including more than a few celebrities) with a specialist market that satisfies even the most discerning tastes.

As expensive grocery stores in the United States go, this is one of the priciest. Think of it as part grocery store, part high-end hub for all things wellness.

Now, it’s important to explain why it’s one of the most expensive grocery stores. As well as stocking rare products that you simply won’t find elsewhere, Erewhon’s affiliation with celebrity culture elevates it to exclusive — and expensive — heights that other stores can only dream of.

To give you an idea of what makes this one of the most expensive grocery stores in the country, a box containing just 28 matcha tea bags will set you back approximately $59 (there’s even a matcha green tea powder — Matcha Kiwami Single Cultivar — for $79). Would you prefer one of Hailey Bieber’s Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothies? That’ll be $20, please! 

As just hinted at, Erewhon also does lots of collaborations, including with celebrities, influencers and other food brands, like Nobu. These viral collaborations are so popular that Erewhon can add a high price tag to the products, and they’ll still sell out. 

2. Eataly

If avoiding expensive food shops is your plan, then maybe don’t plan a trip to our next contender for the title of most expensive grocery store.

Now, that’s not to say that you wouldn’t enjoy the items you’d find at Eataly. It’s just that, since this Italian gourmet market and restaurant chain imports many of its items directly from Italy (as well as making authentic items like fresh pasta in-house), you’ll pay a pretty penny for the pleasure of eating them.

Its eight locations in the U.S. are some of the most expensive grocery stores in the country. In terms of the items you can expect to find — and the eye-watering tags hanging from them — you’ll discover a host of imported wines, artisanal cheeses and authentic Italian food items like pasta. 

It’s not the place to go for a bumper pack of lunchbox snacks for the kiddos. It’s more the sort of place you visit if you need a $156 pot of caviar and a $48 candle to dress the table.  

3. Whole Foods Market

Whether or not this is your first time reading about the most expensive grocery stores, chances are that you’ve heard of Whole Foods Market. With more than 500 outlets across the country, it’s one of the United States’ largest grocery retailers.

With a focus on organic and natural products and a reputation for exacting standards that focus on items of only the highest quality, it’s also very popular. However, one trip through one of its immaculate stores is enough to make you realize that this is unlikely to be one of the country’s cheapest grocery stores. 

And while it continues to try and make organic groceries more affordable for the average shopper, “affordable” is a relative concept. As long as there are products that are “organic” and those that are not, the former are always bound to be more expensive.

It is worth noting that since Amazon acquired the chain in 2017, the price gap it held over other chains in the country has been reduced. It certainly no longer takes “the whole paycheck” to shop there, as its popular nickname would suggest. 

But an article on Business Insider demonstrates that even seven years after the Amazon takeover, it’s still one of the most expensive grocery stores, with certain Whole Foods products displaying markedly higher prices than its competitors. In one instance, a bag of Mandarin oranges cost $3 more than the same-sized bag from Trader Joe’s.

4. Publix

An employee-owned grocery chain based in Florida, Publix is popular despite its place among some of the country’s most expensive grocery stores. Precisely why that’s the case, it’s hard to say. It gets even harder when you see some of the side-by-side price comparisons with less expensive grocery stores.

Another Business Insider price comparison throws up a whopping $40 price gap between the same shop at Publix and popular budget grocery store, Lidl. Garden variety herbs came in at $1 cheaper at Lidl, while a three-pack of bell peppers cost over $2 more at Publix. That’s a $3 swing for just two items. 

Perhaps the most eye-opening price difference relates to protein, with popular meats coming in at around $13 more expensive when purchased at Publix. What all of this means is that while Publix may be “where shopping is a pleasure,” there’s no denying that it’s one of the country’s most expensive grocery stores.

5. Wegmans

Have you ever been advised not to go shopping when you’re hungry? If you’re looking into saving money on groceries, then we would urge you to heed this advice before deciding to shop at Wegmans.

That’s not to say that everything there is expensive. It’s just that the store is home to such a dazzling array of products — some of which are on the pricey side — that even the most disciplined shopper is likely to be tempted to throw their budget out the window.

Again, if you can hold your nerve and lift only the items within your budget from the shelves, you should be fine (with many ranking this spot among the cheapest grocery store chains for an average shop). Just don’t be fooled into thinking that the chain’s claim of “consistent low prices” means it can’t veer into the realm of most expensive grocery stores.

While you’re guaranteed top-tier quality with most of the items available, only the most seasoned shoppers can navigate the aisles without a substantial budget.  

6. Acme Markets

While it’s been a firm fixture in the grocery-shopping scene across Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania for over 130 years, it would seem that Acme Markets is also one of the most expensive grocery stores in the country.

In fact, in 2022, the Consumers’ Checkbook found Acme’s prices to be 35% more expensive than Walmart's. The only big chains to surpass Acme’s prices? Wegmans and Whole Foods Market. 

And while many were hoping that the prices that make Acme one of the nation’s most expensive grocery stores would fall with a planned merger with Kroger, the acquisition was banned by a federal judge in 2024. That means that, for now at least, your budget is probably better spent elsewhere. 

7. The Fresh Market

Launched in 1982, The Fresh Market is another of the country’s most expensive grocery stores. Its goal? To provide high-quality items to those who value provenance and — you guessed it — freshness in their food.

And we have to say that, on that count at least, it delivers. Swing by, and you’ll find an abundance of quality items that set it apart from other big-name grocery brands. However, you’ll probably also notice that it’s located in one of your area’s more affluent neighborhoods and that its price tags are printed to match.

As former CEO, Larry Appel said, according to Business North Carolina, “We need to create a compelling experience for people. It’s a treasure hunt; you’re going to find new things and you’re going to expand your eating horizons.”

In other words, this isn’t the spot to stock up on snackables for your little ones or grab bumper bags of chips on a shoestring. It’s one of the most expensive grocery stores in the United States — a place where the shopping itself is a privilege to be paid for.   

8. Harris Teeter

Harris Teeter is immensely popular for providing high-quality items and services, with special mention reserved for its meat and seafood, plus a mouth-watering deli and bakery, and a vast selection of wines.

You can even grab a bite on the go, whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pizza or a guilt-free salad. Just know that it’s also one of the most expensive grocery stores in the nation.

There are ways to avoid the heftiest price tags that earn this chain a spot among the most expensive grocery stores. Namely, via its “VIC” (Very Important Customer) and “eVIC” programmes, which occasionally offer shoppers a bargain.

However, whether you’re a weekly all-in-one kind of shopper or the kind who tends to buy on the fly en route home from work, it’s not the best place to shop for anyone on a budget. As one Redditor put it, “I shop at HT when I’m feeling fancy.” 

9. Gelson’s

This high-end grocery store wins a place in the hearts of discerning Californian shoppers with top-shelf produce and an upscale level of service that you might not expect when grabbing milk and diapers. Then again, you probably wouldn’t visit Gelson’s for those.

As one of the country’s most expensive grocery stores, Gelson’s is typically found in upscale neighborhoods. It’s known for its superior produce, seafood and deli. It also boasts an unmatched wine selection and meat of the highest quality, including wagyu beef.

What’s more, many stores have a prepared food section for those in search of a delicious meal to go. Just know that whatever it is you need to buy, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll spend it.

Sure, it’s not quite as pricey as other upscale Californian stores like Erewhon. But make no mistake: if you’re looking to avoid the most expensive grocery stores, you should consider adding Gelson’s to that list.  

10. Randalls

From humble beginnings in Texas when the chain’s founder, Robert Randall Onstead, began delivering groceries in his area, Randalls now has over 25 locations across the state.

Plus, depending on your location, you’re likely to find a pharmacist, a florist, a coffee shop, a bakery, a gourmet counter and even a bank alongside the more standard grocery store offerings. Talk about a one-stop shop!

It’s no surprise that this somewhat expensive grocery store commands a loyal following of shoppers who have been grabbing their weekly groceries here for more than 30 years. 

What’s worth noting is that, while its regular prices earn it a place among the most expensive grocery stores in Texas, it seems that there are some incredible deals to be found. As one Redditor says, it’s possible to find “ridiculously cheap deals if you hit them on the right day of the week.”  

11. Giant Eagle

Formed nearly a century ago, Giant Eagle has survived hardships including a World War and what is today a rapidly evolving, increasingly digital shopping landscape. In fact, not only has it survived, it’s positively thrived.

And while it continues to boast fan favorites like its wine and beer section (with tastings available), a huge selection of shelved products, and some ready-to-go meals that compete with your favorite fast food chains, there’s one catch. It’s one of the country’s most expensive grocery stores. 

You could argue that what it brings to the table is worth every penny. And we would tend to agree. But only if our budget could stretch to afford Giant Eagle’s luxury approach to weekly shopping. If it couldn’t, we’d add this to our must-avoid list of the nation’s most expensive grocery stores. 

12. H-E-B

It’s easy to get the sense that the most expensive grocery stores should be avoided at all costs. But that’s not the case at all, in fact, as you’ve already seen, each offers plenty of reasons to consider shopping there.

So, too, does H-E-B, not least with its unrivalled customer service, which sees employees dishing out free samples to enjoy as you browse the well-stocked aisles. However, as you’ve come to expect by now in this guide, it has one small drawback. It’s not always cheap. 

Sure, it’s not the most expensive, either. In fact, any Texans reading this might be surprised to see it even featured. But if you plan to fill your cart with popular brands or house-made specialties (for example, from its tempting bakery), H-E-B can quickly become one of the most expensive grocery stores. 

13. PCC Community Markets

With more than 58,000 members, PCC Community Markets has grown from a 15-family-strong food club in 1953 to one of the nation’s largest customer-owned food co-operatives. And while it is one of the most expensive grocery stores in the county, it’s worth noting that it’s also known for world-class fresh, seasonal and local products, most of which are also sustainable.

No stone is left unturned when it comes to detail, either. What you get (as well as excellent products) are down-to-the-metal descriptions of everything that’s in your food. Some products even have wine pairing recommendations. 

Unfortunately, all of that good stuff comes at quite a cost, making PCC Community Markets one of the most expensive grocery stores in the country. If you can afford it, it’s at least reassuring to know that the profits go back into the community that runs it.  

14. Natural Grocers

As we’ve already covered, some of the most expensive grocery stores are those that deliver exceptional quality and freshness to discerning shoppers. That’s certainly the case with Natural Grocers.

Stocking only 100% organic produce, 100% pasture-based dairy and only free-range eggs — plus meats that are exclusively raised with conscientious and humane practices — it’s easy to see why modern buyers are drawn here. 

As for customer service, Natural Grocers has nailed that, too. Always going above and beyond to help you make the most out of your shop, the chain places an in-house team of nutritionists at your disposal to advise you on your grocery shop.

Enlist their help, and they’ll gladly ensure you source the most nutritional products for your health goals. The only catch? It’s one of the most expensive grocery stores, so you’ll pay a pretty penny for your time there. 

The Most Expensive Grocery Stores in the World

15. Harrods Food Hall, United Kingdom

Ask any Brit what the most expensive grocery store in the U.K. is, and chances are, their answer will be Harrods. It’s been running since 1834, when it was opened by Charles Henry Harrod, a grocer and tea merchant from London’s East End. Today, his legacy lives on, not only as one of the most expensive grocery stores in the world, but as a global symbol of excellence.

Pay a visit to Harrods and you’ll find an array of foodstuffs that just scream fancy living. Think truffles (plus an array of truffle-infused products), caviar, fine Champagne and some of the most expensive wines you’re likely to find in London (which is saying something). 

Of course, your regular grocery shop is unlikely to include any of the aforementioned luxuries. Instead, let’s look at something you might consider buying for the kids, like a pot of jam. A few bucks, right? Well, it depends on your definition of “a few.” For a 280-gram jar of Harrods strawberry jam, you’ll pay £7, which is almost $10 at the time of publication.

With what most consider low-cost basics going for that much, it’s easy to see why this is one of the world’s most expensive grocery stores. 

16. Dean & DeLuca, Global

Leaning into its reputation as one of the most expensive grocery stores, that description is actually the very ethos that Dean & DeLuca was built upon. It was founded by Joel Dean, Jack Ceglic and Giorgia DeLuca, who wanted to provide a place where only the finest foods could be found.

Unfortunately, in 2017, the chain was forced to close a number of stores around California and New York. 

However, having made appearances in cult classics like American Psycho, Will & Grace, and The Devil Wears Prada, it’s fair to say that as long as some stores remain open — even if they are largely found in cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, Dubai and Singapore —  it’ll have a place in the hearts of discerning diners.

Sure, it’s one of the most expensive grocery stores, but that’s precisely why its loyal customers love it. 

17. La Grande Épicerie de Paris, France

If you’re in Paris and wondering where to find the most expensive Champagnes, then head on over to La Grande Épicerie de Paris. As one of the world’s most expensive grocery stores — described by some as the “Louvre of food” — this is, for most, simply not the place to grab weekly essentials.

Visiting this Parisian icon is an experience. You’ll find sections dedicated to exotic spices (some of which fetch over $50), plus French specialties that you’d probably expect, like freshly baked pastries and even a dedicated cheese room.

It’s also home to an excellent curation of fine wines (including those from every renowned French wine region), gourmet meats and some of the most sought-after food items from around the world. In other words, it’s no accident that this is one of the world’s most expensive grocery stores. It is so by design.  

18. Marqt, The Netherlands

Next up on our tour of the world’s most expensive grocery stores is Marqt. Located in the Netherlands, this store is all about consuming consciously. That means local produce, fair trade and zero waste.

As for the average basket price, some put it at 20 to 40% higher than the Netherlands’ more typical grocery stores. However, the price buys something on which (despite Marqt’s best efforts) it’s hard to put a price tag. 

Shop here, and you’re sure to feel good about what you eat and where it’s from. While it is one of the most expensive grocery stores worldwide, it’s perfect for the planet-conscious shopper who refuses to settle for anything less than organic, artisanal and fresh — and who isn’t afraid to run up a hefty bill.  

19. Waitrose, United Kingdom

While it has a few stores around the world, our next entry to the list of most expensive grocery stores hails from the U.K. It’s the place Brits go for the finer things in life, including fine wines and some of the most expensive foods to be found in U.K. supermarkets.

To give you an idea of the prices that make Waitrose one of the U.K.’s most expensive grocery stores, let’s compare two similar products, sourced from Waitrose and Aldi. The latter offers 500 grams of lean British ground beef for £4.79 (~$6.51). Pretty reasonable, right? It certainly is when you compare it to Waitrose, whose equivalent-sized pack costs £7.70 (~$10.46). 

Despite such a clear price gap, the chain remains immensely popular. In fact, there’s even something called “the Waitrose effect.” This refers to a phenomenon, shown by studies, that sees properties within easy reach of a Waitrose commanding higher selling prices than similar homes further away from the expensive grocery store. In some cases, by up to 50%! 

20. Coop, Switzerland

Blending the old-world charm of a local grocery store with more than a touch of luxury, Coop is one of the world’s most expensive grocery stores, known for its selection of sustainable, fair-trade and organic products.

It brings the same level of Swiss quality you might expect from a wristwatch, but infuses it into everyday items. And it does it without pretension, retaining a sense of down-to-earth local culture that removes the boasting from such a premium grocery bill. 

21. Fortnum & Mason Food Hall, United Kingdom

Another expensive grocery store located in a renowned U.K. department store, Fortnum & Mason Food Hall has all the luxurious ingredients you could want. From a £200 (~$270) bottle of aged balsamic vinegar to £620 (~$836) vintage Champagne and £890 (~$1,200) beluga caviar, there’s no shortage of gourmet fare to indulge in.

However, you can still treat yourself to a few luxury products at somewhat affordable prices. Plus, many items, such as biscuits, come in collectible souvenir tins that you can keep as a memento of your expensive food shopping trip. 

Of course, this expensive grocery store also sells its famous food and drink-filled hampers, which range from a modest £35 to £1,000 (~$1,350) and up! 

What Is the Most Expensive Grocery Store in the US?

The most expensive grocery store in the U.S. is, without question, Erewhon. However, it’s hard to equate the offering here with that of other cheaper grocery stores like Target or Walmart.

Bearing in mind its popularity with affluent Californians and celebrities, the average grocery bill at Erewhon simply doesn’t reflect what most average Americans are likely to spend on their weekly groceries.

You’ll find an array of high-ticket items, from chicken noodle soup for $16.50 to $30 bread and $20 to $30 celebrity-endorsed smoothies. You can even pick up a reusable grocery bag. For between $30 and $140, that is. 

With that in mind, it’s hard to argue against Erewhon’s place at the top of the list of the country’s most expensive grocery stores. Almost as hard as it is for most people to justify shopping there! 

What Is the Most Expensive Grocery Store in the World?

Harrods Food Hall in London, United Kingdom, is widely regarded as the most expensive grocery store in the world. For nearly two centuries, it has forged for itself a reputation as an icon of excellence. 

Everyday cupboard staples like jam and soy sauce will set you back far more than you’d spend at other British supermarkets. Think £7 for a pot of jam and £20 for a bottle of soy sauce.

But Harrods is more than just one of the most expensive grocery stores. It’s home to an extensive collection of fine wines, homewares and furniture, fashion, jewelry, luxury watches, gifts and more. All of which are curated to appeal to the world’s most discerning patrons, many of whom travel from around the world to shop here.

Whatever your reason for reading this guide to the most expensive grocery stores, we hope it’s helped. If you’re on the hunt for new pastures when it comes to sourcing your favorite luxury goods, there are stores across the U.S. and around the world that are sure to help you find what you’re looking for. 

Equally, if you’re hoping to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to stocking your cupboards, you now know which of the world’s most expensive grocery stores should be avoided at all costs.

For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.