How Much Does a Bag of Potatoes Cost? A Guide to Potato Prices

Potatoes are one of the most versatile and commonly consumed vegetables They can be prepared in endless ways – mashed, fried, baked, roasted, and more With their neutral flavor, potatoes pair well with almost anything and are a staple ingredient in many cuisines.

But with so many types and sizes of potatoes on the market, it can be confusing to figure out how much a bag of potatoes costs on average. In this article, we’ll break down the factors that influence potato prices and provide a thorough overview of how much to expect to pay per pound and per bag for common potato varieties.

Key Factors That Influence Potato Prices

Several key factors impact the retail pricing of potatoes:

• Potato type – The most common commercial potato varieties are russet, red, yellow, white, purple/blue, fingerling and petite. Russets tend to be the least expensive since they’re widely produced. Specialty potatoes like fingerlings cost more.

• Potato size – Sizing affects the price per pound. Small potatoes cost less than large potatoes per pound. Typical sizes are creamer, salad, U.S. No 1 and U.S. bakers.

• Packaging format – Buying potatoes loose by the pound is cheapest Pre-packaged options like bags and pouches add convenience at a higher cost

• Time of year – Potato prices fluctuate seasonally, with higher prices typically in winter/spring and lower prices in fall after the harvest.

• Organic vs. conventional – Organic potatoes cost more to grow and are priced higher than conventional.

• Retailer – Grocery stores, farmers markets, and other retailers price potatoes based on overhead costs, brand, and other factors. Warehouse clubs offer lower prices.

• Location – Regional growing conditions and transportation costs alter prices by location.

Average Retail Potato Prices

Here are current average prices for common potato types sold at U.S. grocery retailers:

• Russet potatoes: $0.79 per pound (loose) or $2.98 for a 5 lb bag
• Red potatoes: $1.65 per pound (loose) or $4.48 for a 3 lb bag
• Yellow potatoes: $1.19 per pound (loose) or $3.68 for a 3 lb bag
• White potatoes: $1.39 per pound (loose) or $3.78 for a 3 lb bag
• Fingerling potatoes: $2.87 per pound (loose) or $5.98 for a 2 lb bag
• Petite/baby potatoes: $2.66 per pound (loose) or $4.98 for a 2 lb bag

For most households, russet potatoes provide an affordable option perfect for baking, mashing, frying, and roasting. Specialty potatoes can add delightful variety but cost around 2-3 times more by weight.

When purchasing loose potatoes instead of pre-packaged options, you can buy exactly what you need and potentially save up to 30% compared to bags. Just remember to account for peels and waste if you purchase by the pound – around 20% of a raw potato’s weight is inedible.

Comparing Potato Prices at Major Retailers

While national averages provide a baseline, potato prices at grocers, warehouse clubs, farmers markets, and other retailers can vary. Here’s a market-by-market breakdown of current pricing.

Grocery Store Potato Prices

Traditional grocers offer convenience but tend to have higher potato prices than discount stores. Here are current price ranges for 5 lb bags of Russet potatoes at popular chains:

• Kroger: $3.29 to $3.99
• Safeway: $3.49 to $3.99
• Wegmans: $2.99 to $3.49
• Ahold Delhaize (Giant, Stop & Shop): $2.99 to $3.99
• Albertsons: $3.49 to $4.49
• Publix: $3.49 to $4.49
• HEB: $3.42 to $4.32

You’ll typically pay $3-4 for a standard 5 lb bag of Russets at most major grocery stores. Watch for sales, coupons and loyalty discounts to get below $3 per 5 lb.

Warehouse Club Potato Prices

Bulk shopping outlets like Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s offer lower potato prices than standard grocers. Here are current prices:

• Costco: $2.99 for 10 lb bag of Russet potatoes
• Sam’s Club: $2.98 for 10 lb bag of Russet potatoes
• BJ’s: $3.29 for 10 lb bag of Russet potatoes

Warehouse clubs shave at least $1 off the per pound cost of potatoes. You get more for your money when buying bulk.

Farmers Market Potato Prices

Buying direct from farmers can provide savings along with fresh, locally-grown potatoes. But pricing varies significantly by region. Here are typical ranges:

• Russets: $0.99 to $1.99 per lb
• Reds: $1.49 to $2.99 per lb
• Fingerlings: $1.99 to $3.99 per lb

Farmers markets are worth comparing, especially for specialty varieties sold loose so you can purchase exact amounts needed.

Organic Potato Price Comparison

Expect to pay a premium for certified organic potatoes versus conventional at any retailer. Here are typical prices:

• Organic Russets: $1.99 to $2.99 per lb
• Organic Reds: $2.49 to $3.99 per lb
• Organic Fingerlings: $3.49 to $5.99 per lb

The choice comes down to your budget and priorities. While organic costs more, some shoppers feel it provides superior flavor and nutrition.

Tips for Saving on Potatoes

Here are some insider tips for getting the best deals on potatoes:

• Compare prices between grocers – sales and regular prices can differ significantly. Check circulars and apps like Flipp.

• Buy store brands instead of name brands when possible.

• Purchase loose potatoes vs. pre-packaged bags to control quantity.

• Buy larger bulk bags (10 lbs+) at warehouse clubs and portion for savings.

• Purchase in-season fall potatoes for the lowest cost.

• Opt for smaller creamer or “petite” potatoes which offer savings per pound.

• Use coupons and loyalty card discounts when available.

• Sign up for rewards programs and apps to receive potato promotions.

• Check farmers markets and farm stands for in-season deals.

The Bottom Line on Potato Pricing

When it comes to potatoes, Russets offer an affordable option at around $0.80 per pound loose or $3 per 5 lb bag at most grocers. Specialty varieties cost roughly 2-3 times more per pound. Sizing down to smaller potatoes can also save about 30% compared to larger spuds. Buying loose, in-season, and at warehouse clubs provides the best value. With the right Potato purchasing strategies, you can enjoy reliable potato prices on a budget.