Price per pound, and how to compare two sizes
Divide what you paid by the weight. The sticker price catches your eye, but the price per pound is the true cost, and it is the only fair way to compare a small package against a big one. Reduce both to a per-pound figure and pick the smaller number.
The bigger package is not always cheaper
A larger total price often hides a worse deal, and sometimes a barely-better one. This is the real reason to run the numbers instead of trusting the size.
The bigger tub costs more at the register but is 37% cheaper per pound. The smaller bag is the trap.
Weight in other units
- Ounces. Price per ounce = price per pound ÷ 16. To go the other way, divide the weight in ounces by 16 to get pounds first.
- Kilograms. Price per kg = price per pound × 2.205. Useful for comparing against a metric label.
- Sold by count. Convert to weight. A dozen large eggs is about 1.5 lb, so $3.00 a dozen works out near $2.00 per pound.
Where the comparison misleads you
- Spoilage. A cheaper per-pound price is worthless if the food expires before you finish it.
- Sale math. A "buy 2 get 1 free" can still lose to a competitor on price per pound — check it, do not assume.
- Shrinking packages. A "family size" box may weigh less than before. Compare the weight, not the box.
Common questions
How do I calculate price per pound?
Divide the total price by the weight in pounds. A 3 lb bag for $9 is $3.00 per pound. If the weight is in ounces, divide it by 16 first, since there are 16 ounces in a pound.
How do I compare two items of different sizes?
Work out the price per pound for each, then compare those two numbers. The lower price per pound is the better value, regardless of which package looks cheaper on the shelf.
Is buying in bulk always cheaper per pound?
Usually, but not always. Bulk sizes tend to run 15 to 35 percent cheaper per pound, but some are barely discounted. Always check the unit price, and only buy the larger size if you will use it before it spoils.
