A new Consumer Reports analysis finds that grocery prices in Southern California can vary widely depending on the store, with the same items costing significantly more or less across different chains.

In Los Angeles, Costco’s prices were about 20% lower than Walmart, while Whole Foods Market charged roughly 35% more. This shows how shoppers’ store choices alone can have a major impact on household grocery budgets.

The study comes amid ongoing grocery inflation. Conducted by the Strategic Resource Group (SRG) for Consumer Reports, it ranks supermarkets from least to most expensive in Southern California, using Walmart as the baseline for comparison.

Big Price Gaps Across Southern California Grocery Stores

Consumer Reports’ data show clear price gaps among grocery stores in the region. The least expensive stores compared with Walmart were Costco (-20%), WinCo (-4.3%), and Aldi (-4%).

On the higher end, Target (+8.2%), Food 4 Less (+10.3%), and Stater Bros. (+15.6%) exceeded Walmart’s prices. Trader Joe’s was 18% higher, Ralphs 21.9%, Albertsons and Vons around 26%, and Whole Foods topped the list at 35% above Walmart.

Prices were collected in person from store shelves within a 48-hour period in each metro area. Totals reflect advertised sale prices and discounts available through free loyalty programs, but do not include manufacturer coupons or app-only promotions.

The study compared grocery baskets containing packaged goods, fresh produce, and meat. Comparisons were most robust among mainstream supermarkets that stock identical national-brand products, allowing direct side-by-side pricing.

Specialty chains and retailers focused on private-label goods had fewer items in common with Walmart, resulting in smaller comparison baskets.

How Grocery Prices Affect Your Wallet

For shoppers, these price differences have a direct impact on spending. For example, a weekly grocery bill of $200 at Walmart could drop to about $160 at Costco, reflecting the 20% difference.

The same basket could rise to roughly $270 at Whole Foods, given the 35% premium. Over a month, this difference could amount to hundreds of dollars. In Southern California, where rent and living costs already take up a significant portion of income, these price gaps have substantial impact on household budgets.

Following publication, Whole Foods told Consumer Reports that the comparison does not account for factors important to some customers, such as ingredient standards and sourcing practices.

The company also said it has reduced prices on 25% of items over the past 18 months, including private-label products, while maintaining quality standards. Prime members additionally receive discounts on select items and sale products throughout the year.