How it’s calculated
Unit price is the price divided by the quantity in the package. Comparing unit prices shows which package is the better value regardless of size, and exposes package downsizing ("shrinkflation").
Example: 12 oz for $3.49 is 3.49 ÷ 12 = $0.2908/oz; 24 oz for $5.99 is 5.99 ÷ 24 = $0.2496/oz. The larger pack is 14.2% cheaper per ounce.
A lower unit price only saves money if you will use it all before it spoils.
Frequently asked questions
Is the bigger package always cheaper per unit?
No. Sales, coupons and "family size" pricing sometimes make smaller packs cheaper per unit, which is why comparing unit prices helps.
What if the products use different units?
Convert one first (e.g. 1 lb = 16 oz, 1 kg = 1,000 g, 1 L ≈ 33.8 fl oz) so both sizes are in the same unit.
Do stores have to show unit prices?
It depends on the state. NIST publishes a model unit pricing regulation that some states adopt.
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Sources
- Uniform Unit Pricing: Tools for Consumers to Fight Shrinkflation — U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology
- NIST Special Publication 1181: Unit Pricing Guide — U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology
Formulas are taken from the free public references above. Results are provided “as is” for informational and educational purposes only. See our disclaimer.
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