Essential goods cost more in Massachusetts than in 40 other states.

Massachusetts families are no strangers to food insecurity. On top of that, the cost of food in Massachusetts has increased significantly in recent years. It’s no wonder we keep hearing stories about families having to make difficult decisions about their priorities for the week. What are your priorities this week? Having to choose between food, heat, diapers, rent, etc. is a nightmare, but unfortunately, it’s a reality for many Massachusetts families. I have heard firsthand about these struggles from several organizations, including Sheffield Kiwanis, People’s Pantry of Great Barrington, People at Watson Fund, and Construct Inc. of Great Barrington.

Massachusetts grocery prices are among the worst in the nation

To add insult to injury for struggling families, Patch recently reported that inflation is causing food prices to rise faster in Massachusetts than in most other states in the United States. Massachusetts ranks sixth (6.6%) for states with the highest grocery spikes. Other conditions that are worse include:

• Pennsylvania: 8.2%
• Vermont: 7%
• Maryland: 7%
• West Virginia: 6.9%
• New Jersey: 6.8%

What makes Massachusetts one of the worst states for food prices in America?

Patch did not provide a specific answer for Massachusetts, but experts who spoke with the Consumer Affairs Agency said the website notes that factors that can cause prices to vary from state to state include supply and demand, as well as , pointed out that miscellaneous expenses such as local labor costs and utility costs are included. , taxes and real estate costs. Add to this the war in Ukraine, and wheat-containing foods will become more expensive at grocery stores due to reduced wheat shipments.