How Much Should You Spend on Food Each Month in the UK?
Food is one of the biggest household expenses, and many UK families wonder: “Am I spending too much?” In this post, we’ll break down realistic monthly food budgets for different household types, offer tips to save money without sacrificing quality, and help you plan your grocery spending with confidence. Whether you shop in supermarkets, local markets, or online, this guide will give you practical UK-focused numbers.
Average Food Spending in the UK
According to UK household data:
| Household Type | Typical Monthly Spend (£) |
|---|---|
| Single adult | 150–250 |
| Couple | 250–400 |
| Family with 1 child | 350–450 |
| Family with 2 children | 400–550 |
| Family with 3+ children | 500–700 |
These numbers include groceries only, not dining out or takeaways. Your budget may vary depending on location, dietary needs, and shopping habits.
How to Set Your Own Monthly Food Budget
- Track your current spending for 1–2 months – use your bank app, budgeting spreadsheet, or envelope system
- Categorise essentials vs extras – Essentials: groceries for meals at home; Extras: snacks, treats, takeaways, coffee
- Set realistic limits – Base it on your household type and income and include a small buffer for unexpected costs
Pro Tip: Don’t aim for perfection.. aim for awareness and gradual improvement.
Ways to Reduce Food Spending Without Feeling Deprived
- Meal planning: Plan meals around what’s on offer at your supermarket
- Bulk buying: Rice, pasta, tinned goods, and frozen veg last longer and are cheaper
- Use local markets: Often cheaper and fresher than supermarkets
- Avoid unnecessary food waste: Freeze leftovers, shop with a list
Even small changes can save £50–£100 per month — enough for extra savings or bills.
Internal Links to Help Your Budgeting
For a full budgeting guide, check out my cornerstone post: How to Budget on a Low Income in the UK
See a realistic family budget example to understand how food fits into total household spending: Family Budget Example UK
Use these posts to help balance your grocery budget with the rest of your monthly spending.
Final Thoughts
Food doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear monthly food budget, tracking, and a few simple savings tips, you can:
- Plan meals effectively
- Avoid overspending
- Reduce waste and stress
Start tracking this month and see how your grocery spending aligns with your overall household budget.
