source: yahoo
t’s be real for a second, grocery shopping can feel like a full-on side quest in adulting. Between commuting, finding parking, dodging crowded aisles, and waiting in line behind someone who wants to price-match bananas, it’s not always worth the stress.
That’s exactly why I started exploring grocery delivery services, and I’ve never looked back.
Whether you’re a busy parent, working two jobs, sick in bed, or simply done with in-store chaos, grocery delivery can be a game-changer. But here’s the thing: not all services are created equal.
I went down the rabbit hole, tested several apps, stalked Reddit threads, and even asked my dietitian friend what she recommends. This list isn’t sponsored, just genuinely curated to help you pick the best grocery delivery service for your situation.
Quick Picks: Best of the Best
1. Walmart+ – Best for Budget Shoppers
Price: $7.95–$9.95 (per order), or $12.95/month for unlimited
Perks: Same in-store prices, solid app, great selection
Why I like it: No inflated prices like other services. Plus, you can score last-minute add-ons through their chat without having to cancel the whole order.
2. Instacart – Most Widely Available
Price: Starts at $3.99 + service fees, or $9.99/month membership
Perks: Works with multiple stores near you
Heads-up: Prices can be higher than in-store. But their personal shopper feature is awesome, they’ll text if something’s out of stock and ask if you want a swap.
3. Shipt – Best for Membership Value
Price: $10/order or $10.99/month ($99/year)
Perks: Works with Target, CVS, and local stores
Why it’s worth it: Great for regular Target shoppers. And if you have a Visa card, you might get a free membership.
4. Target + Shipt – Best for Target Fans
Price: $9.99/delivery or included with Shipt membership
Perks: Drive-up and same-day options
Target’s native app experience is clean and smooth. You can even mix grocery and home items in one delivery.
5. Kroger – Best for Kroger Loyalists
Price: $9.99/order
Perks: Same prices as in-store, Instacart backend
Order through Kroger’s own app or site to skip Instacart price hikes. Also has ship-to-home for non-perishables.
6. Amazon Fresh – Best for Product Variety
Price: Requires Prime ($14.99/month or $139/year)
Perks: Natural & organic items, speedy delivery, broad household goods
If you’re already a Prime member, it’s an easy add-on. You get delivery options like doorstep drop-off or scheduled handoffs.
7. Whole Foods Market – Best for Organic Groceries
Price: Same as Amazon Fresh (Prime required)
Perks: Clean ingredients, great for gluten-free, vegan, etc.
Just make sure your cart hits the free-shipping threshold ($35–$50 based on area). Slightly higher prices than in-store.
8. Safeway – Best for Regional Shoppers
Price: Varies; some use Instacart, others have in-house staff
Perks: FreshPass ($12.99/month) for free delivery over $30
Pro tip: Order directly through Safeway’s site if you want lower prices and better substitution control.
9. FreshDirect – Best for New England
Price: $5.99+ or DeliveryPass ($79/6 months)
Perks: Frozen, fresh, organic, and custom meal kits
Only available in states like NY, NJ, PA. Great for people in cities with limited store access.
10. Publix – Best for the Southeast
Price: Same model as Instacart
Perks: Local favorite, consistent quality
Even though they use Instacart, you can still earn Publix points or rewards on some orders. Handy if you're a Publix regular.
11. Thrive Market – Best for Specialty Diets
Price: $5/month billed yearly (shipping varies)
Perks: Keto, paleo, gluten-free, vegan, all curated
Honestly, this is where I discovered clean swaps for snacks I love. Also love their free gift promos and recyclable packaging.
12. Boxed – Best for Bulk Orders
Price: $6.99 delivery or free over $79
Perks: No membership required (but Boxed Up is worth it)
Skip the Costco lines but still stock up on paper towels, cereal, and snacks. Perfect for big households or office restocks.
13. Gopuff – Best for Last-Minute Needs
Price: $2.95/delivery or $5.95/month for unlimited
Perks: Delivers in under an hour in most cities
Great for that “oh no, we’re out of coffee” panic. They’ve even got wine, meds, and random home goods on hand.
What to Consider Before Choosing One
Here’s what I learned after testing and comparing:
Check if it’s available in your area, rural towns usually have fewer options.
Compare prices, apps like Instacart may mark up items.
Look for memberships if you order often, they can pay off quickly.
Make sure they offer what you need, like fresh produce, frozen meals, or gluten-free snacks.
Tip your delivery driver, It’s just the decent thing to do, especially in bad weather or long distances.
Why Grocery Delivery Works for Me (And Might for You Too)
I started using grocery delivery when my second kid was born. Between diapers and sleep deprivation, the idea of standing in a checkout line was… laughable.
Now, even post-baby chaos, I still use it because:
I avoid impulse buys (no more $12 candles I “accidentally” grabbed).
I actually save time (and sanity).
It helps me plan meals better and stick to the list.
If you’re juggling a lot, work, family, caregiving, or even just need a break from the grind, having your groceries show up at your door is honestly life-giving.
Final Thought
Grocery delivery used to be a luxury. Now, it’s a legit productivity hack. Whether you’re optimizing your week, protecting your health, or just avoiding crowds, there’s a service out there that fits your life.
Let me know if you want a breakdown of which service is best for meal-prep lovers, allergy-safe homes, or bulk-buying side hustlers. I’ve got notes