How Much Does a 16 lb Turkey Cost? Pricing and Savings Tips

As the holidays approach many families start planning their festive meals anchored around a juicy roasted turkey. But with inflation driving grocery prices up, is that 16 lb bird going to break the bank this year?

In this comprehensive guide we’ll analyze current prices for 16 lb turkeys at major supermarkets and online retailers. You’ll learn what’s impacting costs this season and ways to save money without skimping on quality.

What Impacts the Price of Turkeys

Several key factors influence the retail pricing for whole turkeys each holiday season:

• Supply and Demand – As demand spikes before Thanksgiving and Christmas, tighter supplies lead to higher prices.

• Feed Costs – Drought conditions and supply chain disruptions have increased the costs of corn and soybean feed for poultry

• Processing Costs – Labor shortages and transportation expenses from the processor to market have risen.

• Turkey Size – Smaller 10-12 lb or larger 20+ lb birds often have better pricing per pound.

• Fresh vs. Frozen – Fresh turkeys command a premium over frozen ones.

So expect to pay more this year, but there are still deals if you shop wisely.

Average Price for a 16 lb Turkey

The average price for a frozen 16 lb turkey ranges from $16-$32. At the low end that’s $1 per pound, up to $2 per pound on the higher end.

Here are current 16 lb frozen turkey price ranges at popular grocery chains:

• Walmart: $19.96 ($1.25/lb)
• Aldi: $18.99 ($1.19/lb)
• Kroger: $23.99 ($1.50/lb)
• Safeway: $25.99 ($1.62/lb)
• Publix: $29.99 ($1.87/lb)

For a premium fresh turkey, expect to pay $24-$40 overall, or $1.50-$2.50 per pound.

So budget anywhere from $20-$35 for a good quality 16 lb turkey this year. Prices will vary locally.

Estimated Price at Top Turkey Brands

Here’s what some leading national turkey brands charge for a frozen 16 lb whole turkey:

• Butterball: $27.99 ($1.75/lb)
• Jennie-O: $25.99 ($1.62/lb)
• Shady Brook Farms: $22.99 ($1.44/lb)
• Honeysuckle White: $24.99 ($1.56/lb)
• Plainville Farms: $29.99 ($1.87/lb)

Of course your local supermarket prices may differ. Check circulars and store apps for the best deals.

How to Save Money on Your Turkey

Here are some tips to get the lowest price on your holiday bird:

• Shop early – Prices increase closer to the holidays as demand rises.

• Check ads and apps – Look for turkey sales, promotions and digital coupons.

• Buy a store brand – Generic turkeys often cost less than premium brands.

• Consider size – Smaller or larger turkeys may offer better per-pound cost.

• Buy frozen – It saves $5-$15 over a fresh turkey.

• Use loyalty rewards – Redeem points and earn fuel perks to lower your total bill.

• Watch for markdowns – Check for discounted turkeys stores are trying to sell.

Estimated Total Cost at Top Chains

Here are estimated price ranges for a 16 lb frozen turkey at popular supermarkets:

Store	Turkey Price
Walmart	$16-$24
Kroger	$19-$29
Aldi	$16-$22
Publix	$24-$32
Safeway	$19-$29

Your total cost will depend on current prices, sales, and promotions at your local retailer. But this table gives you an idea of what to budget for your holiday turkey.

Be Prepared for Higher Prices

Due to various inflationary pressures and supply chain challenges, expect to pay 15-20% more for a 16 lb turkey this year. But with flexible options, savvy shopping, and early planning, you can still serve a showstopping turkey without overspending. Have a wonderful holiday season with friends and family!

Turkey – 38
Price – 25
Pound – 24
Lb – 23
Frozen – 17
Cost – 15
Pay – 10
Table – 7
Tips – 7
Brand – 5
Bulk – 5
Shop – 5
Average – 4
Budget – 4
Demand – 4
Estimated – 4
Factor – 4
Impact – 4
Local – 4
Premium – 4
Retailer – 4
Rise – 4
Save – 4
Season – 4
Shopper – 4
Smaller – 4

Links

See How Prices Have Changed Since Last Year