If you noticed an increase in your grocery bill for Thanksgiving essentials this year, it could be due to your residence in California, as reported by the American Farm Bureau Federation.
A recent study by the federation indicates that Californians are anticipated to spend more on traditional Thanksgiving dinner items in 2025, based on its 40th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey. The data reveals that a typical Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people in California costs $72.61, compared to the national average of $55.18.
Shannon Douglas, President of the California Farm Bureau, attributed the price difference to agricultural production costs in the Golden State.
“We believe there are a few factors at play. Firstly, it is more expensive to grow food here in California,” Douglass stated. “The state has the most stringent regulatory environment in the country, alongside some of the highest labor costs. Regulatory expenses alone can reach approximately $1,600 per acre for certain growers; that accumulates quickly. Furthermore, California faces some of the highest transportation and energy costs. Overall, it simply costs more here.”
Despite the rising costs, Douglass noted that the bureau’s findings aren’t entirely negative for residents in the Golden State. She mentioned that the main dish for the holiday dinner was less expensive in California in 2025.
“Turkey prices actually decreased, which is a positive development, and interestingly, stuffing is also cheaper,” Douglass remarked. “… However, most other items saw price increases, particularly dairy products which were somewhat higher in California.”
Additionally, the overall higher costs in California are compounded by a decreased labor force, which has further impacted pricing.
“Many farmers have left California due to the challenging regulatory landscape we’ve been compelled to navigate,” Douglass explained. “In the past decade, we’ve lost around 20% of the farmers in the state, which is substantial. Unfortunately, California is among the leading states in terms of farm loss … this presents a significant challenge.”
The American Farm Bureau Federation reported the average cost for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for a group of 10 by region as follows:
- West Coast – $61.75
- Midwest – $54.38
- Northeast – $60.82
- South – $50.01.
Nevertheless, the California Farm Bureau acknowledged that the average cost in California was considerably higher than that of the West Coast region.
To access The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 40th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey, click here.
To view the California Farm Bureau’s study, click here.
