Finding affordable groceries doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or convenience. From surplus outlets to digital platforms that reward your spending, there are plenty of ways to cut costs if you know where to look. Whether you’re trying to lower your monthly grocery bill or stock up for less, this guide covers the best places—online and offline—to find groceries at a discount in your area.
- Check Out Local Grocery Outlets
Grocery outlet stores specialize in overstock, short-dated, or discontinued products from big-name brands. These items are often priced 40–70% lower than traditional supermarket shelves.
Top discount grocery chains to look for include:
- Grocery Outlet Bargain Market (mostly West Coast and select states)
- Daily Table (Boston, Cambridge, and Dorchester, MA)
- Price Rite Marketplace (Northeast U.S.)
- Food 4 Less (Kroger-affiliated, often has markdowns on fresh items)
Always check expiration dates and note that inventory can vary week to week.
- Explore Regional Independent Discount Markets
Many cities have independently-owned surplus grocery stores, often family-run, that sell heavily marked-down items from wholesalers or distribution centers. These places are often cash-only and advertise in-store, not online—so word-of-mouth or local Facebook groups are key.
Search for terms like “discount grocery store near me” or “salvage grocery store [your city]” to uncover hidden gems.
- Use Cashback Apps When Shopping at Mainstream Stores
Even if you’re shopping at regular chains like Kroger, Stop & Shop, or Whole Foods, you can still save big by layering in rewards.
Platforms like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Fluz offer cashback or rebates when you shop specific brands or pay using linked cards or gift cards.
For example, you can earn cashback with a Stop N Shop gift card or get rewards with a Whole Foods gift card when using Fluz at checkout. That means you’re saving on groceries without clipping a single coupon.
- Visit Farmers Markets Near Closing Time
Many farmers markets drop prices toward the end of the day to clear out remaining produce. While you may have fewer options, you can often get a better price on fresh fruits and vegetables—especially if you’re buying in bulk.
To find a market near you, check LocalHarvest or your city’s parks and recreation department website.
- Join a Grocery Co-op or Food Buying Club
Food cooperatives and buying clubs pool resources to buy groceries in bulk at wholesale prices, then distribute them to members at cost. While there may be a small membership fee, the long-term savings on pantry staples and organic produce can be significant.
- Use Food Rescue Apps and Nonprofit Markets
Apps like Too Good To Go and Flashfood partner with grocery stores to offer deeply discounted food that would otherwise go to waste. These services are especially helpful for buying meat, dairy, and produce at up to 50% off.
They’re not available everywhere yet, but coverage is expanding—so it’s worth downloading and checking regularly.
- Combine Digital Coupons with Rewards
When shopping at traditional grocery stores, stacking digital coupons with cashback is one of the most consistent savings strategies. Clip store coupons via apps like Kroger or Safeway, then pay with a Kroger gift card with cashback or a Safeway gift card with rewards to save even more.
Tips to Maximize Local Grocery Discounts
- Follow local discount grocers on social media for flash sales
- Use cashback gift cards only for the amount you plan to spend
- Visit discount stores early in the week for better selection
- Download food waste apps to catch last-minute deals
- Join loyalty programs for additional discounts and digital coupons
You don’t have to overhaul your entire grocery routine to save—just redirect where (and how) you spend. Whether it’s a neighborhood outlet, a farmers market, or using rewards apps on your regular grocery runs, a few small changes can make a big difference in your monthly budget.
