Even though most shoppers are familiar with Supercenters, Walmart Neighborhood Market represents another type of offering from the largest retailer in the U.S. As of Jan. 2023, the company runs 682 locations of the approachable grocery store offshoot nationwide. But as the pared-down sister outlet, the chain also lives in relative mystery compared to its flashy, full-sized counterpart. Here are all the secrets Walmart Neighborhood Market doesn't want you to know.
READ THIS NOW: 5 Secrets Aldi Doesn't Want You to Know.
1 | Neighborhood Market locations may be more expensive than regular Walmart stores.
Shutterstock / William HowardMany shoppers choose Walmart for its convenience, but others also know they're likely getting the best prices anywhere on their purchases. However, you might be disappointed if you expect to find as many of the same bargains in the aisles of a Walmart Neighborhood Market.
"Because these stores are smaller than a typical Walmart Supercenter, they may actually be more expensive to shop at," warns Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst with DealNews.com. "This is usually explained because not only are the stores smaller, but they obviously offer a smaller selection because of that, which leads to higher prices compared to a regular Walmart store."
2 | The Walmart app still works at Neighborhood Market locations.
ShutterstockEven though many see the Walmart app as an easy way to shop the big box store from home, it's also a handy tool for picking things up while in the store. But what many may not realize is that the same helpful program on your phone still works for trips to Neighborhood Market locations—and can still help you save money in the process.
"It lets you check the price of any item in the store by scanning its barcode with your mobile device," says Jeanel Alvarado, retail expert and founder of Retailboss. "This can help you find hidden clearance items, price check before you get to the register, and help ensure you're getting the best deal possible."
READ THIS NOW: 5 Warnings to Shoppers From Ex-Dollar General Employees.
3 | The Walmart credit card can still help you save money on Neighborhood Market purchases.
Shutterstock / Mark Roger BaileyWhile many major retailers offer an in-house co-branded credit card, not all offer enough incentives to sign up. However, shopping expertTrae Bodge tells Best Life that Walmart's can be worthwhile for saving money in the long run.
"If you're a regular shopper, consider the Walmart credit card, which still works at Neighborhood Market locations," she says. "It gives you access to exclusive discounts and cash back."
But there is one important catch. "Just remember that store cards like this have high APR, so only use this card if you intend to pay it back in full every month," she warns.
For more shopping advice delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
4 | You can use the pick-up order service to avoid overspending.
iStock / hapabapaWalmart has added plenty of features to help customers with jam-packed schedules that allow them to squeeze in essential purchases even when they're too busy for a shopping run. But there's another benefit when using them that's about more than just convenience—especially if you're on a tight budget.
"Walmart Neighborhood Market has options for self-checkout or 'Buy Online & Pick Up In Store' to help save you time. But the real trick is that this can help you avoid browsing and picking up unnecessary items on your way through the store," says Bodge.
She adds that shopping this way can also help ensure you never miss out on items you need featured in the store's weekly specials, which are all searchable by zip code and posted on the store's website.
