Are meal kits cheaper than takeout?

Usually, yes—meal kits are often cheaper than delivered takeout, but not always cheaper than pickup takeout.

A good rule of thumb is:

• Delivered takeout is often the most expensive once delivery fees, service fees, taxes, and tip are added.
• Meal kits are often cheaper than delivery takeout, especially when you use promos or choose lower-cost plans.
• Pickup takeout can be about the same as, or sometimes cheaper than, meal kits.
• Groceries are usually the cheapest option overall.

So the short answer is: meal kits are often cheaper than takeout delivery, but the gap shrinks a lot if you pick up your order yourself. Exact costs vary by city, restaurant, meal kit brand, shipping, promos, and how much food you waste.