Debate: Is the farmers market actually cheaper than the grocery store?

I hit up the Portland Saturday market last week and noticed a big debate brewing. Some folks swear the local eggs and veggies save them money in the long run, but I saw a single bunch of kale going for $4.50, while the Safeway down the street has it for $2. What's your take, do you really come out ahead buying local or is it just a feel-good budget trap?

2 comments

2 Comments

elliot5428d ago

Right, because nothing says "budget friendly" like dropping five bucks on a single zucchini that's been personally serenaded by a folk musician. I swear, the pricing at those places is just a suggestion and the suggestion is "pay double or don't bother." It's basically an outdoor mall for produce where the main attraction is feeling superior about your expensive tomatoes. You gotta have a real talent for selective math to think that's a money saver.

kimr331mo ago

Oh man, no way. The farmers market is a trap if you're actually trying to save money. Sure, you can find a deal on eggs if you buy a flat from the right person, but most stuff is just priced for people who don't mind paying extra for the "experience." I've walked out of there with three items and spent twenty bucks before. Meanwhile, I can get a whole cart of groceries for that at WinCo. If you want local, okay, but don't pretend it's cheaper. It's a luxury, not a budget move.