Frugal Shoppers Share Their Favorite Low-Cost Grocery Stores

With prices so high, going to the grocery store can be demoralizing these days. Not only have companies increased their prices, but they've also "shrinkflated" popular products like Kleenex and Gatorade. That said, some retailers are worse than others when it comes to price gouging. Thrifty Redditors recently shared where they shop ... without spending an arm and a leg. Here's where to buy cheap groceries, according to Redditors.

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Even if it caters to middle- and upper-class yuppies, Trader Joe's is well-known for its cheap, in-house products and produce. "My husband and I recently started shopping at Trader Joe’s. We really like them," one Redditor writes, adding that the retailer has excellent pre-packaged produce.

Related: Trader Joe’s Meals That Take 10 Minutes or Less

An affordable grocery store list wouldn't be complete without Costco, a company committed to low prices. The wholesaler even has a transparent markup cap at around 15%. Frugal Redditors say Costco is especially good for stocking up on high-quality meats.

Related: Prepared Meals at Costco That'll Feed Your Whole Family

This German-owned chain, which is also connected to Trader Joe's, is a mainstay for frugal shoppers, in part because the discounter avoids brand name items. Around 90% of the products at the retailer are private label, and the chain also cuts corners (and saves money) by leaving their inventory in boxes.

Related: Bottles On a Budget: 13 Aldi Wines Under $20

While German efficiency is mostly a myth —their trains are often late, for example — they know how to helm affordable grocery stores. Like Trader Joe's and Aldi, the German-owned retailer Lidl is a favorite because of its competitive prices and no-frills shopping experience. "If you tend to stick to basic ingredients, I'd start with Lidl," a commenter writes, adding that the store sells high-quality ingredients at affordable prices.

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While the prices at farmers markets will vary widely from region to region, it's easy to forget that they're even an option. Since you're dealing directly with vendors, you can usually negotiate on the price, especially if you shop toward the end of the market.