This Was Just Voted America's Top Grocery Store by USA Today Readers—and It's Not Trader Joe's or Aldi

We all have our go-to grocery store for everyday needs, and America has spoken about its all-time favorite of 2024.

Each year, USA Today releases its 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for various categories, including the best grocery stores in the U.S. Nominations are made by a panel of experts, and the 10Best editors select the finalists. Readers then get a chance to vote for their favorites, and this year, it may surprise you which grocer came in the lead.

Best Grocery Store in the U.S. in 2024

Hy-Vee was voted the top grocery store in America in 2024 by USA Today readers. This employee-owned chain is predominately found in the Midwest with over 280 stores, but it is best known for providing "a helpful smile in every aisle.”

According to USA Today, the store “works with farmers to provide locally grown fruits and vegetables, and many of the locations offer food counters with colossal salad bars and items like meatloaf, Asian food, pizza, and fried chicken,” which could be why this is such a popular choice among shoppers today.

Full List of Top Grocery Stores

While Hy-Vee took the top spot, here's a look at the full list.

1. Hy-Vee
2. The Fresh Market
3. Heinen's Grocery Store
4. Stew Leonard's
   
5. Gelson's Markets
6. Aldi
7. Publix Super Markets
8. Trader Joe's
9. Wegmans Food Markets
10. Fresh Thyme Market

The runner-up for this year’s best grocery store (and last year’s winner) is The Fresh Market with its “more intimate and personalized experience” with stores inspired by European-style food markets. 

Aldi’s came in sixth place with its dedicated fan base praising its “no-frills shopping that results in affordable prices” while Trader Joe’s, interestingly enough, followed behind in eighth place. Being this low on the list may come to a surprise to some, but we can’t deny the many devoted shoppers who love the “cult favorite” items TJ's is known for, such as the Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.

Last on the list is Fresh Thyme Market. While it also has a focus on sustainable goods and organic foods, it can’t beat the love that customers have for Hy-Vee and the others. But there is something to be said for providing an enticing “bright, uncluttered shopping experience."