Supermarket Showdown: USA vs. Spain – A Food Shopping Comparison for Expats

Moving to Spain from the United States brings many changes—including how and where you shop for groceries. While Spain is known for fresh, affordable produce and local markets, American expats may find fewer convenience items, different product brands, and smaller store layouts than in the U.S.

At 247 Expat Insurance, we help expats settle into life in Spain with comprehensive health, home, auto, and travel insurance. If you’re wondering how food shopping in Spain compares to the U.S., this guide will break it down for you!

Supermarket Chains – USA vs. Spain

Major Supermarket Chains in the USA

• Walmart – The largest supermarket chain in the U.S., known for low prices and bulk items.
• Kroger – A mid-range grocery store with a wide selection of products.
• Whole Foods – Premium supermarket focused on organic and natural foods.
• Publix & Safeway – Regional chains offering a mix of affordable and premium products.
• Costco & Sam’s Club – Membership-based warehouse stores that sell in bulk.

Major Supermarket Chains in Spain

• Mercadona – Spain’s most popular supermarket, known for affordable, high-quality private-label products.
• Carrefour – French-owned chain offering a wide variety of products, including international brands.
• Lidl & Aldi – German discount supermarkets with low prices and weekly specials.
• El Corte Inglés Supermercado – A premium supermarket similar to Whole Foods.
• Dia – Budget-friendly store, similar to small-town discount grocery chains in the U.S..

Key takeaway: Spain’s supermarkets tend to be smaller than U.S. supermarkets, with fewer bulk-buy options. However, fresh food and local products are prioritized over processed or frozen goods.

Grocery Prices – Is Spain Cheaper Than the USA?

Common Grocery Price Comparison (2025) – USA vs. Spain

Fresh produce, dairy, and local products are significantly cheaper in Spain. However, American products, processed foods, and convenience meals tend to be more expensive.

American Products in Spanish Supermarkets

Many American expats worry about finding their favorite U.S. products in Spain. While Spain has a strong local food culture, some imported American brands can be found in:

• Carrefour & El Corte Inglés – Best for international brands, including some American items.
• Lidl & Aldi – Occasionally stock American-style products in special promotions.
• Taste of America – A specialty store found in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia that focuses on American goods.
• Amazon Spain – Some American food products can be ordered online.

Common U.S. Products Found in Spain

• Peanut Butter (Jif, Skippy) – Available but expensive (~€6-8 per jar).
• Cereal (Lucky Charms, Froot Loops) – Imported versions cost double the U.S. price.
• BBQ Sauce & Ranch Dressing – Hard to find outside of specialty stores.
• Pumpkin Pie Filling & Cranberry Sauce – Available during Thanksgiving at select stores.
• American-Style Bacon & Sausages – Spanish bacon is different; imported versions are pricey.

Key takeaway: Spain prioritizes fresh and local food over processed and imported goods, so American products are limited and expensive.

Shopping Experience – USA vs. Spain

• Store Sizes – U.S. supermarkets are much larger, while Spanish supermarkets are smaller and more specialized.
• Bulk Buying – In Spain, buying in bulk is uncommon, except at Costco Spain (only in Madrid & Seville).
• Fresh Produce Focus – Spanish supermarkets have more fresh, loose produce and fewer pre-packaged fruit and vegetables.
• Alcohol Sales – Wine and beer are sold everywhere in Spain, including supermarkets, at much lower prices than in the U.S.
• Plastic Bags & Checkout Process – Spain charges for plastic bags, and you must bag your own groceries.
• Store Hours – Some Spanish supermarkets close on Sundays, unlike 24/7 stores in the U.S.

The American grocery shopping experience is focused on bulk purchases and convenience, while Spanish supermarkets prioritize fresh, local food and sustainability.

Supermarket Loyalty Programs – USA vs. Spain

U.S. Loyalty Programs

• Walmart+ – Subscription service offering discounts and free delivery.
• Kroger Plus Card – Discounts and gas savings.
• Safeway & Publix Rewards – Personalized coupons and savings.

Spanish Loyalty Programs

• Carrefour Club – Discounts and cashback rewards.
• El Corte Inglés Card – Exclusive discounts and special deals.
• Mercadona – No loyalty program, but competitive pricing.

Key takeaway: Spain’s supermarket rewards are less generous than U.S. programs, but everyday prices are lower.

Final Verdict – Which Country is Better for Food Shopping?

Spain is better for fresh, local, and budget-friendly groceries, while the U.S. offers more variety, convenience, and bulk-buy options.

How 247 Expat Insurance Helps American Expats in Spain

Settling into life in Spain? 247 Expat Insurance provides:

• Health insurance – Private coverage for expats in Spain.
• Home insurance – Protection for your property.
• Car insurance – Spanish coverage for U.S. expats.
• Travel insurance – Protection for trips between the U.S. and Spain, Europe, and the world.

Get a free quote today!

Disclaimer

Grocery prices vary by region. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice.