Shoppers may see higher prices on some ingredients this season, but the overall cost of preparing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner is down, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 40th annual holiday survey.
A classic Thanksgiving meal for 10 now averages $55.18 nationwide, or $5.52 per person — a 5% decrease from last year. In Illinois, the cost is even lower, coming in at $49.20, about 11% below the national average.
The biggest contributor to the price decline is the turkey. The price of a 16-pound frozen bird has dropped sharply, averaging $18.03 in Illinois and $21.50 nationally, a decrease of over 16% from 2023.
“It’s encouraging to see some relief in the price of turkeys, as it is typically the most expensive part of the meal,” said AFBF economist Faith Parum. She noted that turkey producers are still rebuilding flocks affected by avian influenza, while overall demand has eased — a combination helping reduce prices.
Other items with price drops include stuffing mix, dinner rolls, and fresh cranberries, thanks largely to lower wheat prices and improved supplies. Pumpkin pie ingredients remain steady compared to last year.
However, prices have increased for sweet potatoes, frozen peas, whole milk, whipping cream, and especially vegetable trays, which spiked more than 60%.
Illinois Farm Bureau President Brian Duncan said that while the easing of prices is welcome, families are still feeling the long-term impact of previous inflation. “Illinois farmers continue to advocate for solutions to address the challenging farm economy and permanent, enforceable trade agreements to provide long-term certainty for farmers,” he said.
Regionally, the South remains the most affordable for Thanksgiving dinner at $50.01, followed by the Midwest at $54.38, the Northeast at $60.82, and the West at $61.75.
The 2025 survey used price checks from volunteers across all 50 states and Puerto Rico, collected in early November without coupons or special promotions.