It’s 2025, and your fridge is bare. You’re scrolling through a dozen grocery delivery apps wondering: “Is it really worth paying $7.99 just to avoid the store?” If you’ve ever tapped “place order” and immediately wondered if there was a better deal out there, you’re not alone.
Grocery delivery isn’t just about convenience anymore—it’s about cost, customization, and, increasingly, your time vs. your budget. With fees, surge pricing, item markups, and subscription models, the true value can feel murky fast.
I’ve spent the last six months test-driving the top grocery delivery services with one goal: figure out who actually delivers the best value, not just the fastest bananas.
Let’s break down what that means in 2025—and where your money gets the most mileage.
What “Best Value” Really Means in 2025
The phrase “best value” is trickier than ever. It’s not just about which service is cheapest (though that matters). It’s also about how they handle:
- Delivery fees and tipping structure
- Markup on grocery prices
- Product selection and substitution policies
- Subscription perks or member discounts
- Customer service and refund handling
- Time savings vs. price transparency
We’ll dig into each as we compare services. But keep in mind: best value isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your grocery habits, household size, location, and budget will all influence which service actually makes the most sense for you.
The Grocery Delivery Landscape in 2025
Some major players have tightened their game, others have dropped off the map. The standouts this year are:
1. Instacart+
Subscription Cost: $99/year or $9.99/month Delivery Timeframe: As fast as 1 hour
Instacart is still the most widely available grocery delivery service in the U.S., partnering with big chains like Kroger, Costco, Aldi, and more. Instacart+ waives delivery fees and offers 5% back on pickup orders—but only if you stick to certain stores and order minimums.
Where it can trip you up is price markups. Some stores reflect in-store pricing, others add 10–15% to each item, which means your $120 order suddenly becomes $140.
Verdict: Still one of the most flexible and widely available services, but only a good deal if you're placing multiple orders per month and watch for those marked-up stores.
2. Amazon Fresh
Prime Membership Required: $139/year Delivery Timeframe: Same-day or next-day in most metro areas
Amazon Fresh has one major advantage: Prime infrastructure. Orders are fast, consistent, and easily integrated into your existing Amazon habit. But the value here depends on the size of your order.
If you’re grabbing just a few things, fees stack up fast. Plus, produce freshness has been hit-or-miss in recent months, and not all neighborhoods get access to full inventory.
Verdict: Worth it if you already have Prime and place large, bulk orders. Otherwise, smaller households may be better served elsewhere.
3. Walmart InHome
Membership Cost: $138/year or $19.95/month Delivery Fees: None with subscription
Walmart InHome flies under the radar, but it’s easily one of the best values out there—especially for larger families. No delivery fees, no tipping, and no markups. Prices are the same as in-store, which is huge. You can also opt into in-fridge delivery if you’re comfortable with the tech setup (they use smart locks and body cams for transparency).
Verdict: High marks for transparency and price reliability. Best value if you live in a participating area and prefer no-hassle, in-store pricing.
4. Target Same Day with Shipt
Shipt Subscription: $99/year or $10.99/month Delivery Time: 1–3 hours
Shipt works directly with Target’s app and website for smooth ordering, but also delivers from CVS, Petco, and local stores. The convenience is top-tier—but so are the markups. Many grocery items are priced 10–20% higher than in-store, and substitutions are sometimes made without notice.
Verdict: Good for last-minute orders or multi-retailer hauls. Not ideal for tight budgets or picky shoppers.
5. Thrive Market
Membership Cost: $59.99/year Delivery Time: 2–4 days
Thrive Market isn’t your go-to for bananas or milk—but if your pantry is full of gluten-free, organic, or specialty diet items, this is your home base. The member prices are solid, and Thrive is big on sustainability: carbon-neutral shipping, recyclable packaging, and donation-based memberships for families in need.
Verdict: A solid secondary service. Best for planned pantry restocks, not emergency snacking.
6. Hungryroot
Cost: Subscription starts at $69/week Delivery Time: Weekly, nationwide
Hungryroot takes your preferences (vegan, low-sugar, high-protein) and sends you groceries and recipe ideas to match. It’s great for people who want to eat better but don’t want to meal plan or shop. That said, it’s not cheap—and if you’re already savvy at grocery budgeting, this could feel a little bloated.
Verdict: Ideal if you want simplicity and guided eating. Less ideal if you already meal prep like a pro.
7. Misfits Market
Membership Cost: None Minimum Order: $15
Misfits Market started as a way to rescue “ugly” produce but now offers meats, dairy, snacks, and pantry goods—often at 20–40% below retail. Inventory shifts quickly and the selection isn’t always predictable, but if you’re flexible and like saving money and food waste, this is a gem.
Verdict: A great supplement for weekly hauls. Budget-savvy, eco-friendly, and full of surprises—in a good way.
8. Local Co-Ops and Regional Services
Don’t overlook your local co-op or city-based delivery service. Many of these smaller operations offer better produce, fewer markups, and more direct relationships with growers and suppliers. Some even allow reusable packaging returns, or loyalty rewards through local farms.
Verdict: Often the best quality-to-price ratio. Worth exploring if you live in an urban or mid-size metro area.
The Hidden Costs of Convenience
Even the best services come with sneaky expenses:
- Tips (expected, even on subscription models)
- “Heavy Item” fees (common with water cases, pet food, etc.)
- Substitutions that cost more than what you ordered
- Surge pricing during bad weather or peak hours
Keep your eyes on the total at checkout—not just the delivery fee—and don’t be afraid to switch apps if one starts sneaking up on your budget.
So, Which One Delivers the Best Value?
Let’s break it down based on lifestyle.
Convenience Can Be Cost-Effective—If You’re Smart About It
Grocery delivery in 2025 isn’t going away—it’s only getting faster, fancier, and more expensive if you’re not careful. But with the right strategy, it can work in your favor. Keep your expectations clear, your price-checking habits strong, and your apps diversified. Smart shopping is less about brand loyalty and more about flexibility. The good news? You’re in charge. And your grocery cart—and bank account—will thank you.
