How to Read and Compare Unit Prices to Save Hundreds Per Year

When you walk into a grocery store or shop online, you’re constantly bombarded with different brands, packaging sizes, and price points. But if you only look at the sticker price, you might be leaving hundreds of dollars on the table each year.

The secret to maximizing savings without sacrificing quality? Understanding and comparing unit prices.

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology  (NIST) maintains a list of states where unit pricing is supposed to be disclosed. Even if your state is not on this list, you may find that some retailers still list unit prices.

In this guide, I’ll break down what unit pricing is, how to calculate it, and how it can help you make smarter, more cost-effective shopping decisions, whether you’re buying groceries, household essentials, or even big-ticket bulk items.