While grocery stores increasingly stock natural or organic foods, the selection can leave a lot to be desired.

Whole Foods is the grocery industrys flagship organic foods store with a reputation for expensive, niche brands.

But is one store really more affordable than another?

This is a side by side photo of the outside of Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods.

Are you a Prime member? You get an additional10% off at Whole Foodson most items either in-store (with the Amazon app), or online.

We compared costs and the answer might surprise you.

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And if youve nevershopped bulkat a natural foods store, Whole Foods has aguideto help.

Its basically a buffet of prepared foods that can be bought and paid for by weight.

Some stores also have sushi bars, made-to-order pizzas, cafes and sit-down options for the lunch crowd.

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Open spaces, bright lighting and attractive displays make Whole Foods stores feel spacious and modern.

And unlike Trader Joes, Whole Foods also offersonline shoppingand affordable grocery delivery or pickup.

Perusing the health and beauty section in Whole Foods is a pretty pleasant experience.

The shelves are usually stacked with quality supplements and personal hygiene or wellness products.

Youll even find clothing, yoga mats and other fun splurges occasionally on sale.

Some Trader Joes stores have even brought back free samples in several locations.

One of the downsides of being vegan or vegetarian is that theres lots of chopping involved.

However the selection in the meat case is pretty limited.

If youre looking for something fancier, you might come up empty handed.

Its not a very well-kept secret, but Trader Joes offers some of the cheapest and prettiest fresh flowers.

Is Trader Joes More Affordable Than Whole Foods?

And there can be big swings in cost affected by sale prices and regional differences.

Trader Joe and Whole Foods 365 store brands were compared whenever possible.

Trader Joe’s vs.

But Trader Joes money-saving victory comes with some caveats.

However, some supermarket chains tend not to stock as many organic options.

Shop the Sales

Both stores have sales either monthly or weekly featuring discounts on selected products.

For Whole Foods, you’re able to findweekly salesupdated on the website.

Simply download the app and scan your barcode at the register.

Coupons, Coupons, Coupons

Both Trader Joes and Whole Foods take manufacturers coupons.

But Whole Foods has plenty of natural brands on the shelves to choose from, so clip away.

Bring Your Bags

Want the store to bag up your groceries?

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change.

This content is provided as is and is subject to change or removal at any time.

Kaz Weida is a senior writer with The Penny Hoarder.

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