Meal-related expenses vary greatly depending on how often you eat out, as restaurants in the United States are usually quite expensive (except for fast food). Also, remember that you will have to leave a tip, which cannot be less than 15% of the price of the bill. If you buy food every week, your spending will be a little different. Build a budget, learn your spending habits, and keep a shopping list to keep up to date and be responsible, so you can achieve more ambitious goals, such as buying a new vehicle or making a down payment on a home.
Most foods fall into the “needs” category, but not all items in the supermarket qualify as essential items. These factors can significantly affect your budget, so consider planning your online shopping list to compare prices and find the alternatives you prefer.