Israeli Supermarket Basket Price Varies by Over $160

A new study by the Israel Retailers Research Institute reveals a significant price difference for a basket of 150 common household items, with the cheapest costing NIS 1,632.61 and the most expensive reaching NIS 2,209.79. This gap of NIS 577.18, approximately 35%, highlights substantial variations in grocery costs across 20 major supermarket chains in Israel ahead of the Rosh Hashanah holiday.

The survey, conducted on September 3, 2026, and based on data from Pricez, excluded fresh meats and fish due to complexities in quality and kosher certifications. It included a wide range of products such as dairy, staples, produce, beverages, cleaning supplies, and personal care items, representing typical Israeli household needs. The study noted that factors beyond price, like store proximity, service, and product variety, also influence consumer choices.

Among the chains surveyed, Rami Levy was found to have the lowest overall basket price, closely followed by Osher Ad. At the higher end, Freshmarket, King Store, and Tiv Ta'am were the most expensive. The study emphasized that no single chain is cheapest for all items, and price variations can be dynamic, especially during the busy pre-holiday shopping season.

Key spending categories identified were dairy and alternatives (14.6%), cleaning and home care (13.9%), and basic cooking and baking ingredients (12.4%), collectively accounting for about 41% of the total basket cost. The research suggests consumers often focus on prominent sale items while overlooking the cumulative cost of these essential categories.

Experts advise consumers to shop with a detailed list, plan purchases carefully, and be wary of impulse buys driven by promotions. The study concluded that while price differences are significant, consumers should make informed choices based on their priorities, understanding that convenience and personal preferences also carry value. The ultimate savings, it suggests, begin at home with planning rather than solely relying on in-store discounts.