Thanksgiving is about community, gratitude, and sharing good food. But for many Americans, it can also bring financial strain. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 in 2023 was $61.17, down 4.5% from 2022. This stat is still 25% higher than in 2019 — reflecting ongoing inflation and supply costs.

That may not sound like a lot, but for families living paycheck to paycheck, even modest increases in cost can stretch budgets to the limit. Whether you're trying to save money, avoid debt, or simply plan wisely this holiday, this guide has you covered. 

Learn how to host a beautiful Thanksgiving dinner on a tight budget, complete with affordable recipes, shopping tips, and smart financial tools to reduce the stress — not just the costs.

One of the most effective ways to stay on budget is to plan your meal early. Deciding on your dishes a few weeks ahead helps you avoid surge pricing and gives you time to hunt for deals. It also prevents the need for costly last-minute grocery runs that can derail your budget.

To stretch your dollars further, consider building your menu around what’s in season. November favorites like sweet potatoes, carrots, and cabbage tend to be more affordable due to seasonal supply. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Before you shop, browse store flyers and apps like Flipp or your local grocery store's website for sales and digital coupons. Comparing prices between stores ahead of time can help you create a price-matched shopping list and avoid overspending.

And don’t hesitate to make it a potluck. Asking guests to contribute a side dish, dessert, or drinks not only lowers your cost — it also adds a personal touch to the table and lets everyone feel involved.

The turkey often takes center stage, but it doesn’t have to be a whole bird to make a statement. Smaller turkeys or turkey breasts are often more cost-effective and easier to cook. For smaller gatherings, a whole roasted chicken can serve as a delicious and affordable alternative.

For example, roasting a seasoned turkey breast with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme takes less than two hours and still delivers that classic Thanksgiving flavor. A four-pound turkey breast typically costs $10 to $12, while a whole chicken might be even cheaper and serve three to four people comfortably.

Sides are where you can get creative without overspending. Roasted root vegetables — like carrots, sweet potatoes, and onions — are inexpensive and easy to prepare with olive oil and herbs.

Stuffing is another classic that can be made using day-old bread or discounted bakery loaves. Toss the bread with sautéed onion, celery, and poultry seasoning, then bake until golden and crisp.

Homemade cranberry relish is also more affordable than the canned version and often tastes better. Simmer fresh cranberries with orange juice, a splash of maple syrup, and orange zest for a tangy-sweet addition to your table.

Need more side inspiration? Check out Budget Bytes’ list of low-cost Thanksgiving side dishes.

Pumpkin pie made from canned pumpkin and a pre-made crust is one of the most affordable desserts around. You can also try a rustic apple crisp using in-season apples, oats, flour, and butter for a dessert that’s simple and satisfying.

For budget-friendly desserts try relying on pantry staples you already have, so you can save even more.

When it comes to grocery shopping, timing and strategy can be key. Stock up early on dry goods and freezer-friendly items like pie crusts, canned veggies, and broth. Buying staples in bulk — think flour, sugar, potatoes, and spices — can also lower your per-unit cost, especially if you plan to bake or cook large batches.

Store brands are another easy way to save. Many generic products come from the same suppliers as national brands but at a fraction of the price. You can also use apps like Ibotta or Fetch to get cash back on everyday items.

Don’t forget loyalty programs: Many grocery stores offer discounts or coupons for repeat customers, and those savings can add up quickly during the holidays.

Hosting doesn’t require expensive decor or new dinnerware. In fact, some of the most charming holiday tables are made with DIY or repurposed items. Try using autumn leaves, twine, and candles to make a centerpiece. Mason jars or old glass bottles can double as rustic vases.

Instead of buying new tableware, borrow from friends or mix and match what you already own. A quirky, eclectic table often feels more authentic than one styled to perfection.

For accents like napkins or seasonal touches, dollar stores can be gold mines. A little creativity goes a long way in making your space feel festive without overspending.

Rushing to the store the night before Thanksgiving usually ends in overspending. You may find yourself grabbing expensive pre-made dishes, overpaying for decor, or even facing overdraft fees from unexpected purchases.

If you're running low on cash, EarnIn’s Cash Out¹ feature can give you access to up to $150/day, with a max of $750 between paydays, helping you bridge the gap without resorting to high-interest credit cards or overdraft fees.

Set aside a small buffer (hint: just $20 to $30) to cover last-minute needs like extra butter, forgotten spices, or backup dessert. Planning this ahead helps reduce financial stress. EarnIn's Tip Yourself² feature can help you stash away part of your paycheck automatically — which can accumulate fast — so you have some cash as a backup in a pinch.

Balance Shield³ is another helpful tool that sends you low-balance alerts and can even trigger an automatic transfer to help you avoid those surprise fees.

A memorable Thanksgiving doesn’t require spending hundreds of dollars. With a little planning, some clever swaps, and smart financial tools like EarnIn’s Cash Out¹ and Balance Shield³, you can create a warm, welcoming holiday without the stress.

Focus on what matters most — good food, great company, and gratitude. The rest? You’ve got it handled.