Commissary VS. Wal-Mart?

Question

This is my first time at a state-side base and I'm having a really hard time deciding which is cheaper--the commissary or Wal-Mart? It seems tax added onto Wal-Mart groceries kind of evens it all out. I know brand-name items are cheaper at the commissary but if you get off brand items at Wal-Mart those are cheaper. It's such a pain trying to figure this out.

State-side military spouses--do you use the commissary or Wal-Mart? Why?

Thank you for your time!

That's what I thought. I've been military my entire life. This is the first time I've been military in the states though so with all the selection I'm a little overwelmed.

I thought the commissary was better but like I said--when you just got to the US--it's hard to choose.

Answer 1

This refers to what you find in the commissary that is also in a Wal-Mart.

OK
commissary:
First major brand canned goods are 20-40% cheaper, meats are
USDA choice often and a less expensive. Getting USDA choice in some civilian markets is impossible; "choice" for such as steaks and roasts is very important. Ground beef is less costly, gravy mixes, spices much better deal. Frozen foods on some great savings, milk and such, etc..

Just take your reciepts from both places and check when you shop,

Wal-Mart:

Things on sale are often the better buy, I use the weekly sales flyers to help me shop, if I buy off post, I only buy what is on sale.
That decides what is for dinner.

Our commissary has a board with comparative prices up dated often (Fort Carson).

commissaries differ around the country, Fort Carson lost its major supplier and has been not so great the last few months for meats, we are getting organic products! at a good savings, we even have a real Sushi set up! The guy seems to be busy everytime I shop (weekly).

I use the military only coupons often.

Fresh produce is well up & down but I know what the prices are and divide up my selection, as I live east of Pueblo, Colorado I have access to real farmer's markets June to October.

I based my shopping list on location and what the commissary
has the best price "always" on. I will post when retyped (new computer- lost old file).

Wal-Mart: their brand items can be the better deal: besides they have the best rated dishwasher powder.

I think the commissary staff is also better, butchers are good,
the check out is much quicker than civilian markets although Wal-Mart is the best of the local places. Besides I like the enviroment of our commissary. Know the grandkids will not be hassled or worse.

Just a few ideas; oh, I am the retired one! My Mrs (The real Sgt-Major) still works so I have done 95% of all shopping for the last
14 years.

Civilian food prices vary around the country, in some areas the
difference sare minor I hear for some items. I recall food prices in San Antonio were much better than Colorado, and the selection here is dismal compared to those HEB's in Texas.

I also save a few bucks on gas:-) Goodluck Air Force or Navy
or Marines (base versus post).

Also: go online and get on aafes.com PX/BX and get on mailing list for flyers: many 10-30% coupons for online and use at BX/PX
many require a Military Star card use. "Doc"

Answer 2

Commissary Fort Carson

Answer 3

Fort Carson Commissary

Answer 4

it really depends on what u buy. I think wal-mart is cheaper. when ur tryin to feed a family i guess ur list is different. but i can buy walmart brand tp, paper towels, trash bags, and other stuff the commissary just doesnt have and for extra cheap. if u cant decide, factor in gas and travel time. Wal-Mart was right up the street from my house as opposed to the commissary. and i never liked the lines at the commissary and tipping the bag boys was a hassle.

Answer 5

I use both, depending on where I'm at, at the time. The military stores are my personal preference for a couple of reasons.

1. The profits from these stores go back to the military community in the way of Morale, Welfare and Recreation funds. Walmart profits go to corporate America.

2. The Commissary has a decent selection and the truck load sales can't be beat.

3. The Exchange does price matching, so not only do you not pay sales tax, you get the lower price.

4. Lines are shorter than Walmart and children are better behaved.

Just my .02.

Answer 6

I like the commissary better. They tend to be cheaper. I know that when I shop at Wal-mart half a cart of stuff is usually $50 more than at the commissary.

Answer 7

Winnie - that may be where you are - but not all states do that.


I use the commissary. It's about 25 miles closer...and most things are cheaper. I only go to another store if there is something the commissary doesn't have - which here is actually quite a bit as it's a very small one.

Answer 8

I shop at the commissary. There has been times I went to Wal Mart for a few items and noticed their prices are higher.
I keep all my receipts.
Meat, milk are cheaper at the commissary.

Answer 9

It really depends on many things. The Commissary is better for food. The Exchange and Wal-Mart are about equal for clothes, simply because of brand-names, generics etc. At least for my family, the Exchange and Commissary were more convenient, because they were a whole lot closer.

Answer 10

I am not a state side military spouse, but I would use both. First convenience is sometimes worth something. Second small price differences don't really mean to much in the long run. Three, Usually Wal-mart has a wider selection on everything. As long as you stay within your monthly budget and can save a little don't worry so much.