Families planning their Thanksgiving menus should find plenty of turkeys at grocery stores this year, along with more holiday promotions, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service economist.
Turkey prices are a little higher than they were last year, but the supply outlook is strong. In late October, wholesale whole turkeys averaged $1.80 per pound, compared with $1.69 during the same week in 2025. The gap between this year’s and last year’s wholesale prices has narrowed in recent weeks.
Wholesale prices reflect what retailers pay suppliers, while grocery store prices can depend on earlier contracts and store promotions. In early November, the national average retail price for a frozen, conventionally raised whole turkey was $1.26 per pound, up from $1.03 a year ago. Prices and specials vary by store.
A strong supply for the holiday
Turkey production has rebounded from last year’s decline. The number of birds going to market is up about 3%, while heavier birds have increased total production by nearly 6%.
David Anderson, an AgriLife Extension economist and professor in Texas A&M’s Department of Agricultural Economics, said the production figures point to an ample supply for Thanksgiving. Recent bird flu cases have not been significant enough to disrupt holiday availability.
More grocery store promotions
Grocery stores are advertising more whole turkeys than they were at this time last year, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture retail report. About 2,500 stores nationwide were featuring frozen conventional turkeys in late October.
Retailers typically arrange their Thanksgiving turkey supplies well in advance and use holiday prices to bring shoppers into their stores. Anderson expects more specials as Thanksgiving approaches.
Turkey remains a popular centerpiece for Thanksgiving, though demand for a second turkey around Christmas has declined over the years.
