San Diego, November 22, 2025
The cost of preparing Thanksgiving dinner in San Diego has dropped by 5% in 2025, with the average expense now at $55.18 for ten people. This decline is the result of lower turkey prices, which have seen a significant drop. However, regional variations exist, with the South experiencing the lowest costs. While consumers can expect savings compared to last year, some items like sweet potatoes have increased in price due to various factors, including supply chain issues.
Thanksgiving Meals in San Diego: Costs Drop in 2025
PALM DESERT, Calif. — The cost of preparing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people has decreased by 5% in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of declining prices. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual survey, the average cost is now $55.18, down from $58.08 in 2024. This equates to approximately $5.52 per person.
Key Factors Influencing the Price Drop
The primary contributor to this reduction is a significant decrease in turkey prices. A 16-pound frozen turkey now averages $21.50, or $1.34 per pound, reflecting a 16% decline from the previous year. This price drop is attributed to lower commodity prices and grocery stores offering discounts to attract consumers.
Regional Variations
Regional differences in meal costs have been observed. The South reported the lowest average cost at $50.01, while the West had the highest at $61.75. These variations are influenced by local economic conditions and regional pricing strategies.
Additional Cost Considerations
While the overall meal cost has decreased, certain items have seen price increases. Sweet potatoes, for example, have risen by 37%, and a one-pound veggie tray of carrots and celery has increased by over 60%. These hikes are attributed to factors such as weather-related crop damage and supply chain disruptions.
Historical Context
Despite the recent price decreases, the current average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. In 2022, the cost peaked at $64.05, and while prices have been declining since then, they have not yet returned to the 2019 average of $46.90.
Conclusion
Overall, consumers can expect to spend less on Thanksgiving dinners in 2025 compared to the previous year, primarily due to lower turkey prices. However, regional differences and price increases in certain side dishes may affect individual meal costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people in 2025?
The average cost is $55.18, down 5% from 2024.
Which item saw the most significant price decrease?
The 16-pound frozen turkey, averaging $21.50, experienced a 16% price drop.
Are there regional differences in Thanksgiving meal costs?
Yes, the South reported the lowest average cost at $50.01, while the West had the highest at $61.75.
Have all Thanksgiving dinner items become cheaper?
No, some items like sweet potatoes and veggie trays have seen price increases due to factors like weather-related crop damage and supply chain disruptions.
How does the 2025 Thanksgiving dinner cost compare to pre-pandemic levels?
While prices have decreased since the 2022 peak of $64.05, they remain higher than the 2019 average of $46.90.
Key Features of the 2025 Thanksgiving Meal Cost
| Item | 2025 Price | Price Change from 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| 16-pound frozen turkey | $21.50 | ↓16% |
| Sweet potatoes (3 pounds) | $4.00 | ↑37% |
| One-pound veggie tray (carrots and celery) | $1.36 | ↑61.3% |
| Overall meal cost for 10 people | $55.18 | ↓5% |
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