New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows that the cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner has dropped to $55.18, a 5 percent decline from last year. This brings welcome relief to families planning holiday meals, though the decrease only partially offsets the sharp rise that pushed the Thanksgiving dinner cost to a record $64.05 in 2022.
Source: American Farm Bureau Federation
What We Know
The centerpiece of the Thanksgiving dinner, the turkey, played the biggest role in reducing overall cost. Prices for a 16-pound bird fell more than 16 percent, averaging $1.34 per pound. Several classic sides—including stuffing mix, cranberries, and dinner rolls—also saw modest declines.
However, the numbers tell a bigger story. The cost of Thanksgiving dinner is still above pre-pandemic levels, even after three years of decline. Higher input costs, lingering inflation, and supply chain challenges continue to influence the price of vegetables and specialty items. Some produce, such as sweet potatoes and vegetable trays, increased in cost compared to 2024.
Source: AFBF Market Intel
What It Means for Farmers
Lower retail turkey prices reflect ongoing pressure on poultry producers, especially those recovering from avian influenza losses. Meanwhile, produce farmers continue to face elevated costs for labor, fertilizer, fuel, and packaging. The declining cost of Thanksgiving dinner does not necessarily translate into higher margins for farmers.
Direct-to-consumer farms may feel these shifts differently. When big-box stores advertise cheaper Thanksgiving dinner ingredients, local farms must emphasize freshness, quality, and the value of supporting nearby growers. This is a key opportunity to remind shoppers that every local purchase helps strengthen regional food systems.
Shop Local for Your Thanksgiving Dinner
As you prepare your own holiday dinner, consider sourcing part—or all—of your meal from local farms. Fresh greens, potatoes, squash, herbs, baked goods, and even pasture-raised turkeys are available across the country. Shopping local keeps more food dollars in your community, supports farm families, and brings unmatched freshness to your holiday table.
Visit your local farmers market, browse farm marketplaces like Farm Trader, or contact nearby farms to see what is still in season.
Final Thoughts
The cost of Thanksgiving dinner may be trending downward, but the challenges facing U.S. agriculture remain very real. This season, choosing local food is one of the most meaningful ways to support the farmers who make the holiday feast possible.
