Why trust Big4credit?
Big4credit evaluates and ranks credit cards using our own structured methodology. Scores and reviews are created independently without input from card issuers, and rankings are never influenced by compensation.
How We Select the Best Credit Cards for Grocery?
To identify the best credit cards for grocery purchases, we analyzed more than 120 leading credit cards issued by FDIC-insured banks and widely available in the United States. For this category, we narrowed the list to nearly 70 cards that offer rewards on grocery or supermarket purchases, including cashback, rewards, and travel credit cards.
We estimated each card’s annual grocery rewards potential based on the average household spending on food at home. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure reached $6,224 in 2024 – approximately $518 per month. Grocery spending represents a meaningful portion of most household budgets, making reward efficiency in this category especially important.
Grocery Rewards Analysis
When comparing grocery cards, we placed significant weight on earning power for grocery and supermarket purchases. Specifically, we evaluated:
- Reward rate (cashback percentage or equivalent rewards value)
- Earning structure (caps, limits, rotating categories, or bonus requirements)
- Earning simplicity (how easy it is to consistently earn rewards)
- Redemption flexibility (cashback options, transfer partners, statement credits, travel redemption, etc.)
- Redemption value and rates
A key metric in our analysis is the estimated annual savings a cardholder could generate from grocery spending alone.
We then apply a second layer of evaluation using each card’s overall Big4credit rating. While grocery earning power drives category eligibility, final selections prioritize cards that combine strong grocery rewards with high overall performance across our unified scoring framework.
This ensures that featured cards excel both within the grocery category and as well-rounded financial products.
Cost and Risk Factors
In addition to rewards, we considered important cost and financing factors, including:
- Annual fees
- Foreign transaction fees
- Ongoing APR
- Introductory 0% APR offers on purchases
Many of the best grocery credit cards have no annual fee. However, some cards with annual fees may still offer strong overall value if their rewards and benefits outweigh the cost.
We also consider foreign transaction fees, since paying extra fees while shopping abroad can reduce your savings. Introductory 0% APR offers can be helpful for short-term flexibility, but long-term interest rates are still an important factor.
Additional Evaluation Criteria
Beyond rewards and costs, we also consider:
- Welcome bonus value and first-year earning boosts
- Purchase protections
- Additional perks and benefits
Welcome bonuses can add meaningful first-year value if the spending requirement is realistic. We look at how achievable these bonuses are and how much they truly add to the card’s overall value.
All grocery rankings reflect both grocery earning potential and the card’s overall strength within our broader evaluation system.
Editorial Picks: Best Credit Cards for Groceries
While we work to keep information up to date, credit card terms and promotional offers can change without notice. We recommend confirming current rates, fees, and rewards on the issuer’s website before applying.
Custom Cash®
The Citi Custom Cash® Card is a strong choice for grocery spending because it automatically earns 5% cashback on your top eligible spending category each billing cycle (up to $500 per month). Grocery stores are one of the eligible categories, so if you primarily use the card for supermarket purchases, you can consistently earn 5% back without tracking rotating categories or activating bonuses.
Because the 5% category adjusts automatically to your highest monthly spending category, the card works best when grocery spending consistently exceeds other categories.
Based on average annual grocery spending, this could translate to approximately $302 in annual grocery rewards.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If the card is used primarily for groceries:
$500 monthly cap × 12 months = $6,000 eligible for 5%
$6,000 × 5% = $300 cashback
Remaining grocery spend: $6,224 − $6,000 = $224
$224 × 1% (base rate) = $2.24
Estimated total annual grocery rewards: $302
Actual rewards will vary based on individual spending patterns.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
Eligible purchases typically include:
- Supermarkets
- Meat/seafood stores
- Dairy product stores
- Bakeries
- Miscellaneous food/convenience stores
❌ Excluded Purchases
The following purchases generally do not qualify as grocery spending:
- General merchandise/discount superstores
- Wholesale/warehouse clubs
- Candy, nut and confectionery stores
- Some online grocery or delivery services if the merchant is not classified as a supermarket
👉 Read Card’s Review
Instacart Mastercard®
The Instacart Mastercard® is a strong option for people who frequently order groceries through Instacart. The card earns 5% cashback on Instacart purchases (delivery or pickup) on up to $6,000 per year. If most of your grocery spending happens through Instacart, the card can deliver meaningful rewards.
However, elevated rewards apply only to purchases made through Instacart. In-store grocery purchases typically earn just 1% cashback. As a result, the card works best for shoppers who consistently use Instacart rather than shopping directly at supermarkets.
Based on average annual grocery spending, this could translate to approximately $302 in annual grocery rewards, assuming spending is directed through Instacart.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery spending is made primarily through Instacart:
$6,000 annual cap eligible for 5%
$6,000 × 5% = $300 cashback
Remaining grocery spend: $6,224 − $6,000 = $224
$224 × 1% (base rate) = $2.24
Estimated total annual grocery rewards: $302
Actual rewards will vary based on individual spending patterns and Instacart usage.*
❗️ Important Considerations
- The 5% rate applies only to Instacart purchases.
- In-store grocery purchases typically earn 1%.
- Even with Instacart+, service fees and potential price markups may reduce overall savings.
- Some consumers report higher prices on Instacart compared to in-store shopping.
Who This Card is Best For:
✔ Frequent Instacart users
✔ Households that prioritize grocery delivery or pickup
✔ Shoppers who already pay for Instacart+
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• People who primarily shop in-store at supermarkets
• Shoppers seeking high grocery cashback without platform restrictions
👉 Read Card’s Review
Blue Cash Preferred®
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is one of the strongest grocery cashback cards in terms of pure reward rate. It earns 6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per calendar year (then 1%). For households that spend regularly on groceries, this high earning rate can generate substantial annual rewards.
However, the 6% rate is capped at $6,000 per year, and the card has a $95 annual fee after the first year. That means the card delivers the most value when grocery (and other bonus category) spending is high enough to offset the annual fee.
Based on average annual grocery spending, the card could generate approximately $362 per year at the 6% rate (before accounting for the annual fee).
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery spending is directed to this card:
$6,000 annual cap eligible for 6%
$6,000 × 6% = $360 cashback
Remaining grocery spend: $6,224 − $6,000 = $224
$224 × 1% (base rate) = $2.24
Estimated total gross annual grocery rewards: $362
- $362 - $95 annual fee = $267 net
Actual rewards will vary based on spending and whether the annual fee applies.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
The 6% rate applies to Supermarkets located in the U.S.
❌ Excluded Purchases
The following typically do not qualify:
- Superstores
- Convenience stores
- Warehouse clubs
- Meal-kit delivery services
Who This Card is Best For:
✔ Households with consistent supermarket spending
✔ Shoppers who can offset the annual fee through rewards
✔ Cardholders who also benefit from other bonus categories
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• Light grocery spenders
• Shoppers who primarily use warehouse clubs or superstores
• Those seeking a permanently no-annual-fee grocery card
👉 Read Card’s Review
Sapphire Preferred®
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is primarily a travel rewards card, but it earns 3x points on online grocery purchases (excluding Target®, Walmart®, and wholesale clubs). This includes grocery pickup and delivery orders placed online with supermarkets, specialty food stores, and eligible delivery services that are classified as grocery merchants.
However, in-store grocery purchases typically earn just 1 point per $1, which is significantly lower than dedicated grocery cashback cards. Because of this, the card works best for people who regularly place grocery orders online rather than shopping primarily in-store.
Based on average annual grocery spending, the 3x online grocery rate could generate approximately $187 in annual grocery value (before accounting for the $95 annual fee).
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery purchases are made online and qualify for 3x points:
- $6,224 x 3 points per $1 = 18,672 points
Assuming points are redeemed at approximately 1 cent per point:
Point value can vary depending on redemption method.
❗️ Important Considerations
- The 3x rate applies only to qualifying online grocery purchases.
- In-store grocery purchases typically earn 1x points.
- Target®, Walmart®, and wholesale clubs are excluded.
- The card carries a $95 annual fee.
Why It Can Still Be Valuable: Chase Ultimate Rewards® points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners, potentially increasing their value above simple cashback – especially for travelers. If you prioritize travel rewards and already use online grocery ordering, the 3x category can meaningfully contribute to overall point accumulation.
Who This Card Is Best For:
✔ Travelers who value transferable points
✔ Households that frequently order groceries online
✔ Cardholders optimizing Ultimate Rewards points
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• Shoppers who primarily buy groceries in-store
• People seeking straightforward cashback
• Those focused on maximizing grocery-specific rewards
👉 Read Card’s Review
Savor Rewards
The Capital One Savor Rewards Card earns unlimited 3% cashback at eligible grocery stores, making it one of the strongest no-annual-fee options for everyday grocery spending. Unlike capped bonus cards, the 3% rate applies without a spending limit, which makes rewards predictable and easy to track.
Based on average annual grocery spending, this could translate to approximately $187 in annual grocery rewards.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery purchases are made online and qualify for 3x points:
Actual rewards will vary based on individual spending patterns.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
The 3% rate applies to purchases made at eligible grocery stores, including:
- Supermarkets
- Freezer/meat locker provisioners
- Dairy product stores
- Specialty food markets
❌ Excluded Purchases
The following typically do not qualify:
- Superstores such as Walmart® and Target®
Who This Card Is Best For:
✔ Shoppers who want consistent grocery cashback with no annual fee
✔ Households that also spend on dining or entertainment
✔ People who prefer simple, unlimited reward structures
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• Heavy grocery spenders seeking the highest possible rate
• Shoppers who primarily buy groceries at big-box stores or warehouse clubs
👉 Read Card’s Review
Prime Visa / Amazon Visa
The Prime Visa is a strong grocery option if you regularly shop within the Amazon ecosystem. Prime members earn 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market. Non-Prime cardholders earn 3% back at those locations.
If most of your grocery spending happens at Amazon or Whole Foods Market, the 5% rate can generate meaningful rewards. However, traditional in-store supermarket purchases outside of Amazon or Whole Foods typically earn just 1% back, which makes this card less competitive for broad grocery spending.
Based on average annual grocery spending, rewards could range from approximately $187 to $311 per year, depending on Prime membership and spending patterns.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
Prime Member (5% scenario):
If factoring in the annual Prime membership cost (~$139):
Non-Prime (3% scenario):
Actual rewards will vary based on spending location and Prime membership.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
The elevated rate applies to:
- Amazon Fresh
- Whole Foods Market
- Eligible grocery purchases through Amazon
❌ Traditional supermarket purchases outside Amazon and Whole Foods generally earn 1%.
Who This Card Is Best For:
✔ Prime members who already shop at Amazon or Whole Foods
✔ Households heavily integrated into Amazon purchases
✔ Shoppers who want simple redemption on Amazon
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• People who primarily shop at traditional supermarkets
• Heavy grocery spenders seeking the highest universal supermarket rate
• Those who do not want to maintain a Prime membership
👉 Read our review
Strata℠
The Citi Strata℠ card earns 3 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent at supermarkets, making it a competitive no-annual-fee grocery option. While it earns points instead of straight cashback, the effective return can vary depending on how points are redeemed.
Based on average annual grocery spending, supermarket purchases could generate approximately $187 in annual rewards.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
- $6,224 x 3 points per $1 = 18,672 points
Assuming points are redeemed at approximately 1 cent per point:
- 18,672 points ~ $187 in value
Actual value depends on redemption method.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
The 3x rate applies to purchases at supermarkets.
❌ Excluded Purchases
The following typically do not qualify:
- General merchandise/discount superstores
- Freezer/meat locker provisioners
- Dairy product stores
- Miscellaneous food/convenience stores
- Markets
- Drugstores
- Wholesale/warehouse clubs
- Specialty vendors
- Bakeries
- Candy, nut and confectionery stores
- Meal kit delivery services
- Some online grocery or delivery services if the merchant is not classified as a supermarket
Who This Card Is Best For:
✔ Shoppers who want grocery rewards without paying an annual fee
✔ People who value points flexibility
✔ Cardholders earning ThankYou Points across multiple Citi cards
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• Those seeking the highest possible grocery return (5–6%)
• People who prefer simple, predictable cashback
👉 Read Card’s Review
DoorDash Rewards Mastercard®
The DoorDash Rewards Mastercard® is strongest for shoppers who regularly order groceries through the DoorDash app. The card earns 4% cashback on DoorDash purchases, including grocery delivery from participating local stores, as well as restaurant orders and other delivery categories. It also earns 2% cashback at grocery stores, whether shopping online or in-store.
If you frequently use DoorDash for grocery delivery, the 4% rate can be competitive compared to many general-use cards. However, if most of your grocery spending happens in-store, the 2% rate may fall short of dedicated grocery cards offering 3–6%.
Based on average annual grocery spending, estimated grocery rewards could range from approximately $124 per year (in-store only) to $249 per year (primarily DoorDash purchases). A blended spending pattern would typically fall between those amounts.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery purchases are made primarily through DoorDash (4%):
If grocery purchases are made primarily in-store (2%):
Blended scenario (50% delivery / 50% in-store):
Actual rewards depend on how much grocery spending occurs through DoorDash.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
- 4% applies to purchases made directly through DoorDash (including grocery delivery, restaurants, and other participating merchants within the app).
- 2% applies to grocery store purchases made outside DoorDash, online or in-store.
Who This Card is Best For:
✔ Frequent DoorDash users
✔ Households that regularly order grocery delivery
✔ People who want one card covering dining + delivery + groceries
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• Shoppers who mostly buy groceries in-store
• Those seeking the highest fixed grocery cashback rate (3–6%)
• Households not using DoorDash regularly
👉 Read Card’s Review
Customized Cash Rewards
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card earns 2% cashback at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, plus 3% in a category of your choice. The 2% grocery and wholesale club rate applies to the first $2,500 in combined purchases per quarter across grocery, wholesale clubs, and your selected 3% category. After the quarterly cap is reached, purchases earn 1%.
There is no annual fee, which makes this card appealing for everyday spending – especially for shoppers who buy groceries at both supermarkets and warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club.
Based on average annual grocery spending, estimated grocery rewards could be approximately $124 per year, assuming spending remains within the bonus cap limits.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery spending stays within the quarterly bonus cap:
Actual rewards may be lower if the $2,500 quarterly cap is exceeded due to spending in the 3% category.
❗️ Important Considerations
The 2% grocery rate shares a $2,500 quarterly cap with your selected 3% category (such as gas, dining, or online shopping).
If you spend heavily in your 3% category during a quarter, you may reach the cap before maximizing grocery rewards — causing additional grocery purchases to earn only 1%.
This cap structure means grocery rewards can vary depending on how you use the card.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
The 2% category typically includes:
- Grocery Stores/Supermarkets
- Wholesale clubs
- Freezer/meat locker
- Dairy product stores
- Bakeries
- Candy, nut and confectionery stores
❌ Excluded Purchases
The following typically do not qualify:
- Superstores such as Walmart® and Target®
Preferred Rewards Boost (If Eligible): Bank of America Preferred Rewards members can receive a rewards boost. Depending on tier status, the 2% grocery rate can increase up to 3.5%, which significantly improves overall value.
Who This Card is Best For:
✔ Shoppers who buy groceries at warehouse clubs
✔ People wanting grocery rewards without an annual fee
✔ Cardholders who value flexible bonus categories
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• Heavy grocery spenders seeking the highest rate
• People who frequently exceed the quarterly cap
• Shoppers focused solely on maximizing grocery rewards
👉 Read Card’s Review
Discover it®
The Discover it® Cash Back card earns 5% cashback in rotating quarterly bonus categories (up to $1,500 in purchases per quarter, then 1%). Grocery stores and wholesale clubs are typically included in one quarter each year.
Because grocery is usually a one-quarter bonus category, the card does not provide year-round elevated grocery rewards. However, during the grocery quarter, the 5% rate can be very competitive.
Based on average annual grocery spending, estimated grocery rewards could be approximately $122 per year, assuming you maximize the 5% category during the eligible quarter.
Estimated Annual Grocery Savings
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual household grocery expenditure was $6,224 in 2024.
If grocery is a 5% category for one quarter:
$1,500 × 5% = $75
Remaining grocery spend: $6,224 − $1,500 = $4,724
$4,724 × 1% (base rate) = $47
Estimated total annual grocery rewards: $122
Actual rewards depend on quarterly category activation and spending timing.
❗️ Important Considerations
- The 5% category must be activated each quarter.
- The 5% rate is capped at $1,500 per quarter.
- Grocery bonus typically applies for only one quarter per year.
- After the cap is reached, purchases earn 1%.
✅ Eligible Grocery Purchases
The 2% category typically includes:
- Supermarkets
- Freezer/meat locker
- Bakeries
- Smaller grocery stores
- Grocery delivery services
❌ Excluded Purchases
The following typically do not qualify:
- Superstores such as Walmart® and Target®
- Convenience stores
- Discount stores
Wholesale Clubs
Wholesale clubs are often included in a rotating quarter, but:
- Costco does not accept Discover in-store (Visa only).
- Discover may work for some online Costco purchases.
- Purchases of affiliated services (travel, cell phones, delivery services) may not qualify.
- Individual merchants within warehouse clubs may not be eligible.
It’s important to confirm acceptance with the specific wholesale club.
Who This Card is Best For:
✔ Shoppers who can concentrate grocery spending during the bonus quarter
✔ People wanting occasional 5% grocery rewards without an annual fee
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives:
• People seeking year-round grocery bonuse
• Heavy grocery spenders
• Costco in-store shoppers
👉 Read Card’s Review
