Hoosiers planning Thanksgiving dinner this year will see a slight drop in costs, though prices remain historically high. The Indiana Farm Bureau’s annual market basket survey reveals the average cost for a feast for 10 is $53.31, or $5.33 per person—about 2% less than in 2023 and 8% below the national average of $58.08.
Turkey prices are a key factor in the decline. Indiana shoppers will pay around $1.33 per pound for a whole turkey, totaling $21.22 for a 16-pound bird. This is 17% less than the national average, thanks to Indiana’s ranking as the third-largest turkey-producing state.
Pumpkin pie filling also saw a sharp decrease, down 22% from last year to $3.78 per can. Other items, including pie shells and sweet potatoes, are cheaper for Hoosiers, though some costs—like cranberries and whipping cream—have risen.
Farmers’ input costs remain a challenge, with only 15.9 cents of every dollar spent on food going back to the farm, according to the USDA. Still, Indiana farmers continue to produce staples like turkeys and pumpkins, contributing to affordable options for the Midwest.
The $53.31 market basket covers turkey, stuffing, sides, milk, and dessert, reflecting a traditional Thanksgiving meal.