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Looking for the most affordable way to get groceries delivered to your door? This comprehensive comparison breaks down the costs, fees, and savings opportunities across major grocery delivery services.
Grocery Delivery Services Compared: Best Apps & Prices [2025]
You'll discover which service offers the best value for your specific needs and how to maximize savings on each platform.
1. Instacart
Instacart partners with over 40,000 stores across North America, offering same-day delivery from local grocers. The standard delivery fee ranges from $3.99 to $7.99, with a 5% service fee. Instacart+ membership ($99/year) eliminates delivery fees on orders over $35.
Best for: Wide store selection and same-day delivery flexibility
2. Walmart+
Walmart+ membership ($98/year or $12.95/month) includes free grocery delivery on orders over $35. There's no markup on in-store prices, making it one of the most cost-effective options for frequent delivery users. Members also get free shipping on Walmart.com and fuel discounts.
Best for: Everyday low prices and consistent delivery service
3. Amazon Fresh
Available to Prime members ($139/year), Amazon Fresh offers free delivery on orders over $35-$50 depending on location. Whole Foods delivery is included, though prices tend to be higher than traditional grocers. The service excels in pantry staples and household essentials.
Best for: Prime members who want to combine grocery and regular Amazon shopping
4. Shipt
Target-owned Shipt offers annual membership ($99) or pay-per-delivery options. Members get free delivery on orders over $35, while non-members pay $10-15 per delivery. Prices are marked up 3-5% over in-store prices to cover service costs.
Best for: Target shoppers and those wanting personalized shopper service
5. DoorDash
While known for restaurant delivery, DoorDash now offers grocery delivery through partnerships with major chains. DashPass ($9.99/month) provides reduced service fees and free delivery on orders over $35. Non-members pay delivery fees starting at $4.99 plus service fees.
Best for: Combining restaurant and grocery delivery services
6. Uber Grocery
Uber's grocery service is available through Uber Eats, with free delivery for Uber One members ($9.99/month) on orders over $30. Non-members pay variable delivery fees starting at $3.99. Service includes real-time tracking and integration with Uber's reward program.
Best for: Uber Eats users who want to add groceries to their delivery options
7. FreshDirect
Popular in the Northeast, FreshDirect offers high-quality groceries with a focus on fresh produce and meat. DeliveryPass membership ($129/year) includes free delivery, while non-members pay $5.99-$9.99 per delivery. Known for quality but tends to be pricier than traditional grocers.
Best for: Premium grocery shoppers prioritizing quality over price
8. Kroger Delivery
Kroger offers delivery through both its own service and Instacart partnerships. Boost membership ($59-$99/year) includes free delivery on orders over $35. Non-members pay $9.95 per delivery. Service availability varies by location.
Best for: Kroger loyalty members and those near Kroger-owned stores
Cost Comparison Table
| Service | Membership Cost | Delivery Fee | Minimum Order | Price Markup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Instacart | $99/year | $3.99-$7.99 | $10 | 3-10% |
| Walmart+ | $98/year | Free with membership | $35 | None |
| Amazon Fresh | With Prime ($139/year) | Free over $35-$50 | $35 | Varies |
| Shipt | $99/year | Free with membership | $35 | 3-5% |
| DoorDash | $9.99/month | $4.99+ | None | 5-15% |
| Uber Grocery | $9.99/month | $3.99+ | None | 5-15% |
| FreshDirect | $129/year | $5.99-$9.99 | $30 | Premium pricing |
| Kroger Delivery | $59-$99/year | $9.95 | $35 | Minimal |
Money-Saving Tips for Grocery Delivery
- Compare membership costs against your delivery frequency
- Look for new customer promotions and seasonal deals
- Bundle orders to meet free delivery thresholds
- Check both delivery services and store-specific apps for best prices
- Use cashback apps like these recommended options for additional savings
- Stack rewards programs with credit card cashback
- Order during off-peak hours for lower fees
- Check multiple services as prices can vary significantly
Final Words
The best grocery delivery service depends on your shopping habits, local store availability, and price sensitivity. For frequent users seeking the lowest overall cost, Walmart+ typically offers the best value due to consistent in-store pricing and additional membership benefits. For maximum store selection, Instacart provides the most flexibility despite higher fees. Consider starting with free trials of several services to find your ideal match, and don't forget to factor in both delivery fees and product markup when comparing total costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grocery Delivery Services
Which grocery delivery service is cheapest?
Walmart+ typically offers the lowest total cost due to in-store pricing and no additional markup, combined with free delivery on orders over $35 for members. Kroger Delivery can also be cost-effective, especially with their lower-tier Boost membership at $59/year.
Is grocery delivery membership worth it?
Grocery delivery membership is worth it if you order at least twice monthly. For example, with Walmart+ ($98/year), ordering groceries twice monthly saves about $120-180 annually in delivery fees compared to per-order delivery charges. Calculate your break-even point by dividing the annual membership fee by the typical delivery fee.
How much should you tip grocery delivery drivers?
The standard tip for grocery delivery is 10-15% of your order total or at least $5, whichever is higher. For large orders or difficult deliveries (bad weather, many stairs), consider tipping 20% or more.
Which grocery delivery services don't mark up prices?
Walmart+ is the only major grocery delivery service that guarantees no markup on in-store prices. Most other services apply markups ranging from 3% to 15% over in-store prices, plus additional service fees.
