If you think groceries are expensive, the eye-popping prices in Inuvik, Canada will leave you speechless

With rising costs and economic uncertainty, many people are finding creative ways to cut expenses—some even attempting grocery hauls for under $50 a week for an entire family. In many parts of the U.S., this is achievable with strategic planning and budget-friendly items from stores like Walmart and Target. However, the story is vastly different in Canada’s northern regions. Willow Allen (@willow.allen), a resident of Inuvik, Canada, revealed the staggering prices she faces during routine grocery trips, leaving viewers astonished. 

“Come get groceries with us in the Arctic,” Allen remarked. She arrived at North Mart and dove straight in to reveal the shocking rise in prices of simple products. Starting with the fruit section, the woman bafflingly revealed that a bag of oranges costs $16.99. Moving forward, blueberries were $9.99, and a box of stuffed cheese was a whopping $16.99. The items that are generally available for under $2 or $5 were almost double in the northern areas. Allen added, “We live in the Northwest Territories, and groceries here aren’t even half as expensive as in other northern communities.” 

Meat prices started at $10 and climbed higher, while items like caramel sauce cost around $7.49. The most staggering price tag, however, was for Nutella—a jar cost an eye-watering $48. Despite the steep costs, Allen explained that their prices are still lower compared to even more remote northern communities. As she continued browsing, the prices became increasingly jaw-dropping.

Pasta and other sauces were priced between $7 and $10, while the highest expense was $47 for four chicken breasts. With just a few items, Allen’s grocery bill came to $215. Yet, the woman had to agree that it was nowhere near the costs in other neighboring communities. She didn’t know what regular prices were in other parts, but the prices she showed had certainly left many in shock. 

Madhura, an economics student, shared that there are a variety of reasons for the whopping costs, per Bored Panda. She explained that transport, shipping costs, harsh weather, and things like low population are but a few reasons why products are priced the way they are. People were shocked by these expensive prices and immediately figured they were better off with their regularly priced groceries.

@haillecassandra wrote, “If you ever want Nutella, I will mail you Nutella, $48 is a crime.” @anne_0800 shared the large difference in prices and said, “I freak out when chicken is past $15 here and it’s 6 large pieces.” @blesseddryj remarked, “I’m never complaining about grocery prices anymore.” @kat.hyc said, “I’m going to watch this anytime I feel I’m spending too much at a grocery store.”  @kim4915 pointed out, “My family would go broke if we had to buy food from there. $47 for chicken is crazy!” @soggycheetopuffz remarked, “That’s insane. I went shopping and paid around $168 for 10 bags of groceries.”

You can follow Willow Allen (@willow.allen) on TikTok for more lifestyle content.