Set a grocery budget you can actually keep

A grocery budget works best when it starts from reality. Find what you spend now, then bring it down a little at a time instead of slashing it overnight.

Find your starting number

1. Add up every grocery receipt or card charge for the last month, including quick top-up trips
2. Count takeout separately so you can see both
3. Divide by the number of weeks for a weekly figure

Set the target

• Aim for 5 to 10% less than now for the first month
• Decide whether household items (cleaning, paper goods) are in or out
• Split into weekly amounts so a big shop early in the month doesn't leave you short

Benchmarks

The USDA publishes monthly food plans at different cost levels for different household sizes. They're a useful reference, but your local prices and needs decide the real number.

General information about food budgeting. Prices vary by store and region. The Nickels Budget isn't paid by any store or brand.