Southeast Thanksgiving Meal Costs Rise

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Thanksgiving dinner is becoming more expensive across the Southeast.

In Tennessee, the University of Tennessee Extension reports that the cost of a traditional holiday meal is up more than ten percent from last year, averaging $128.50.

Families in Georgia and surrounding states are also facing higher costs for popular holiday items.

National reports that suggest lower prices often leave out regional favorites like ham and sweet potato casserole, meaning the numbers don’t reflect what many families actually spend.

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff highlighted the impact in Georgia, noting that families are facing “substantially higher prices for their Thanksgiving dinners this year, including large increases for turkey, beef, vegetables, and fruit.”

Economists say ris