Trader Joe’s has ranked highest in customer satisfaction among U.S. supermarkets, according to the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index report. In 2026, the grocer scored 86, up from 84 the previous year. That puts Trader Joe’s just ahead of Publix (84), H-E-B (83), and both Aldi and Costco (81).
America Puts Trader Joe’s at the Top of Supermarket List
A leading national chain of neighborhood grocery stores, Trader Joe’s is shining bright at the top of America’s favorite list. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index’s Satisfaction Benchmarks by Company report, Trader Joe’s outperformed its rivals and other major grocery chains in customer satisfaction.
The California-based grocer received a score of 86, up from 84 a year earlier, showing 2% growth. The increase places Trader Joe’s just ahead of regional and national rivals, including Aldi, Costco, and Target.
Other retailers showed modest movement this year. Publix held steady at 84 after earning the top spot in 2025, while H-E-B inched up to 83. Sam’s Club slipped to 82, and Costco and Aldi also remained at 81. At the same time, Whole Foods Market’s score dipped one point to 81.
Kroger and Ahold Delhaize both held at 78. Among larger chains, Walmart stayed at 75, Target fell one point to 79, and Albertsons Companies dropped to 74.
Regional Standouts: In the West, Trader Joe’s posted the highest regional score at 87. Sam’s Club led with 84, followed closely by Aldi, H-E-B, and Publix at 83 in the South.
Aldi performed strongly in both the Northeast and Midwest, leading those regions with scores of 79 and 82, respectively.
About Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s, a national supermarket chain, was founded in 1967 in Pasadena, California. It is popularly known for its friendly and neighborhood-style stores. It currently operates over 600 stores across 40+ states.
The chain features unique products, international items, and more at very affordable prices. It keeps prices low by buying directly from suppliers and purchasing in bulk. Additionally, Trader Joe’s does not charge suppliers for shelf space, a policy that helps keep costs down for shoppers.
Recently, Trader Joe’s has also introduced a new Hot Honey Goat Milk Cheese, made with pasteurized goat milk, honey, and red pepper flakes. The limited-time item is now available in stores.
With regular new products, innovation, and customer-forward thinking, Trader Joe’s has secured the top spot in the American supermarket race.
