North Carolina Has 3rd Lowest Grocery Price Hikes In U.S.
The cost of groceries is crazy high, but according to a new study, here in North Carolina we’re lucky! According to ConsumerAffairs, North Carolina has the 3rd lowest grocery price hikes in the U.S.
I’m one of those people that enjoys grocery shopping. Usually, I’ll go early to avoid crowds. Lately though, it’s seemed like a chore. Prices are insanely high and I’m spending more than ever at the store. I know I’m not alone. Although we’re lucky in our state when compared to others.
ConsumerAffairs analyzed the cost of groceries in each state, and we’re doing ok. We have the 3rd smallest increase in grocery prices in America. The new study shows that our prices have only increased 3.5% for 2024.
Despite North Carolina being in better shape than lots of other states, the increase is still seen in all of our wallets.
Where Is The Grocery Price Hike The Most
The states seeing the largest increase are mostly in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic states according to ConsumerAffairs.
Pennsylvania is seeing the highest increase in the cost of groceries with an increase of 8.2%. Glad we aren’t living there! Vermont and Maryland are both seeing a 7% increase.
Colorado is leading the states with groceries only seeing a 2.9% increase. Arizona is 2nd, and we’re 3rd.
I live alone and don’t have kids and I’m struggling so I cannot imagine how a family of 4 or larger is making it. Even with our state having a lower percentage of hikes, it’s still expensive to buy groceries.
Cooking is something I enjoy doing and I rarely eat out, so I’ll spend a bit on groceries. Right now, I’m going for the ‘salad days’. For whatever reason, I get on specific salad kicks, and right now I’m on a Greek salad kit.
Iceburg lettuce is pretty inexpensive, so I’ll use that, olives, peppers, tomatoes, and feta cheese. Instead of a Greek dressing, I’ll use a vinaigrette. The most expensive thing I’ll buy for this salad is the olives and feta.
Luckily, with the hotter temperatures comes lots of fresh veggies and fruits! I try to shop at the local farmer’s market for these foods. Usually, the flavors are better, and the price is cheaper than at the grocery store.
When I do cook something, I’m all about eating the leftovers, so that saves money too. I’ll whip something up and have it for a few days. We all have to do what we can to save money! I’m glad we’re here instead of in Pennsylvania.
Steer Clear: 8 Grocery Store Behaviors to Avoid
Disrespecting Employees
This should be common sense, but one of the fundamental rules of grocery store etiquette is to treat employees with respect and kindness. While it’s understandable to occasionally have moments of price shock or policy gripes. But don’t take it out on the people working at the grocery store. They’re not the ones setting the prices. Venting your frustration on employees is never the right approach. Refrain from raising your voice or engaging in arguments with cashiers and staff members on the sales floor.
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Packing Out the Express Checkout
We all love the quick in-and-out experience of using self-checkout for those small hauls. But the self-service lane loses its charm when people with massive shopping carts, loaded with groceries decide to set up camp there. It’s even worse when they have items needing special codes. So, think of self-checkout as the express lane, where it’s best to stick to around ten items or less. Using the express checkout lane with more items than the posted limit can hold up the line for others who are following the rules. It’s worth mentioning that many grocery stores are opting for more self-checkout lanes in their stores.
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Aisle Bites
You’ve probably seen people snacking on food they haven’t paid for yet at the grocery store. Some even take half-eaten items to the cashier to scan. This is not only rude but also unhygienic. It’s like treating the store as your personal buffet and it makes others uncomfortable. While satisfying your cravings is perfectly fine, there are better ways to go about it.
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Grocery Blocker
You’re bound to bump into a friend or neighbor while grocery shopping, but consider where you stop for a chat. If you see someone eyeing the produce behind you, it’s a good sign to wrap up and find a quieter spot. Keep in mind that grocery store catch-ups should be relatively short. It’s not the ideal time for lengthy reunions, especially if others are waiting to shop. The same courtesy applies to your shopping cart. Don’t park your cart smack in the middle and block the way for everyone else.
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Stashing Unwanted Groceries and Trash
If you change your mind about something while shopping, do everyone a favor and return it to where it belongs. Dumping unwanted items in random aisles instead of returning them to their proper creates frustration for both store employees and fellow shoppers. Nobody wants to discover a rogue carton of buttermilk sitting next to the potato chips. It makes the store messy, confuses people, and turns a simple grocery trip into a weird scavenger hunt. In some grocery stores, you might find cafes where you can stroll the aisles with a coffee or beverage in hand. Chances are you’ve come across half-empty Starbucks cups or abandoned water bottles among the store shelves. When you’ve finished your drink, it’s best to dispose of the cup or bottle properly.
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Leaving Your Grocery Cart Wherever
Bringing back your shopping cart is the most basic form of grocery store courtesy. Returning your shopping cart is a quick task and it’s a huge help for the store staff. Additionally, left-behind carts can lead to more significant problems. A deserted cart in the parking area may potentially cause damage to vehicles. A cart left behind inside can cause a roadblock in the store.
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Lack of Personal Space
When we’re shopping at the grocery store, give people their personal space. Whether browsing the aisles for your favorite snacks or waiting in line at the checkout, respecting personal space is key. No one likes feeling crowded or rushed while making their selections, and we all appreciate a bit of privacy when completing our transactions.
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Rude Cellphone Usage
When you’re at the store, try not to use your phone too much. It’s okay to make a quick call to roomie to ask about ketchup, but keep it quiet and brief. Save the catching up for later. Also, don’t text and push your cart at the same time because you might bump into something or someone. Lastly, unless you’re using your phone for digital coupons or rewards, it’s best to put it away during checkout.
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