Salmon is one of the most popular and nutritious fish you can buy. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins and minerals, salmon offers an array of health benefits. From boosting heart health to enhancing brain function, adding salmon to your diet a few times a week is a smart choice.
But where exactly can you find high-quality salmon near your home? With many options like grocery stores, fish markets, warehouse clubs and online delivery, it can get confusing to know the best places to buy salmon nearby. This guide will walk through the main options so you can easily find fresh, delicious salmon close to home.
Check Your Local Grocery Store
One of the easiest options for buying salmon is your local grocery store. Most full-service supermarkets have a fresh seafood section or counter where you can find an array of salmon types. Here are some tips for buying salmon at the grocery store:
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Look for wild-caught Pacific salmon like king, coho or sockeye for better flavor and nutrition. Farmed Atlantic salmon is more common but lower in omega-3s.
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Check the price per pound and compare types Wild salmon costs more than farmed but may be worth it
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Look for firm, shiny salmon without dark/dull spots. Make sure it smells fresh, not fishy.
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Find previously frozen salmon for more budget-friendly options Be sure it was frozen properly
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Inquire about sustainability ratings and origin information if it’s not listed.
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Ask the seafood counter staff for recommendations if you’re unsure what type to buy.
Buying salmon at larger chain grocery stores like Kroger, Safeway, Publix or Wegmans is often convenient. Be sure to look for sustainable options and previously frozen salmon for cheaper prices.
Swing By Your Local Fish Market
For an even wider selection with knowledgeable staff, visit a local fish market or seafood store. These specialty shops focus solely on high-quality seafood. Here are some perks fish markets offer:
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Wider variety of salmon types like wild king, sockeye, coho, chum and keta.
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Fresher options since seafood is their specialty.
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Experienced staff who can answer questions and make recommendations.
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Better selection of sustainable, local seafood.
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Custom cutting options like salmon steaks or fillets cut to order.
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Specialty smoked salmon selections.
The hands-on experience and expertise at fish markets may be worth the trip for salmon lovers.
Check Warehouse Stores
For budget-friendly options on salmon in bulk, check your local warehouse store like Costco, Sam’s Club or BJ’s Wholesale Club. Benefits of buying salmon at warehouse stores include:
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Lower prices for buying bulk packs of salmon fillets or steaks.
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Farmed Atlantic salmon options to save money.
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Pre-portioned, ready-to-cook options for convenience.
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Frozen wild-caught salmon year-round for longer shelf life.
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Kirkland Signature salmon at Costco offers quality at a lower price point.
Buying salmon in bulk packs at warehouse stores can save you money. Just be sure to separate and freeze extra portions if you can’t eat it all before the sell-by date.
Order Online for Delivery or Pickup
For ultimate convenience, order salmon online through grocery delivery services like Instacart or seafood delivery companies. Here’s how buying salmon online benefits you:
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Huge selection to browse salmon options at home.
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Quick delivery to your doorstep in as little as 2 hours.
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No need to leave home – big plus if you’re busy or don’t have a car.
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Get salmon from the best stores or markets delivered.
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Order exactly what you need – no buying big packs.
Services like Instacart allow you to order salmon and groceries from stores like Kroger, Safeway, Wegmans and more. Or choose seafood-focused companies for excellent quality.
Check Your Local Listings
If you want to dig deeper, search local listings for specialty seafood markets, independent fish shops or fishermen selling direct. Here are some ways to find them:
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Search Google Maps/business listings for “seafood market near me.”
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Check ads in local newspapers and magazines.
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Search food/restaurant review sites like Yelp for top-rated seafood spots.
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Ask neighbors, friends or co-workers for recommendations.
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Check farmers market listings for fishermen selling seasonal catch.
Finding a specialty seafood shop or independent seller near you takes more effort but may reward you with the highest quality salmon. Talk to the owners and develop a relationship for the best offerings.
Choose What Works Best For You
As you can see, you have quite a few options for finding salmon in your neighborhood. Choose what makes the most sense for your needs and preferences:
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Grocery stores offer one-stop convenience.
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Fish markets provide peak freshness and variety.
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Warehouse stores allow budget buys in bulk.
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Delivery or pickup means ultimate ease without leaving home.
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Specialty sellers offer top-notch local products.
Whatever option you select, look for high-quality salmon that is fresh, sustainable and safely handled. Seek out wild-caught salmon in season for peak flavor and nutrition. With so many sources nearby, you can enjoy tasty, healthy salmon any night of the week.
HOW TO BUY SALMON | What Salmon Should You Buy at the Grocery Store?
FAQ
How much is 1 lb of salmon?
What is the best month to buy salmon?
Salmon Species | Peak Season | Flavor Profile |
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King (Chinook) | May – September | Rich, buttery, high in Omega-3 |
Sockeye | June – July | Firm, deep red flesh, bold flavor |
Coho | July – November | Milder, slightly sweet taste |
Pink | June – September (every other year) | Light, delicate, lower in fat |
What’s the best salmon in a can to buy?
The Best Canned Salmon, According to Food Professionals
According to these savvy food professionals, the ultimate canned salmon brand is Wild Planet’s Wild Sockeye Salmon.
Where should you get your salmon from?
As an informed consumer, you already know that the best salmon to buy is wild-caught salmon from Alaska. Alaskan salmon naturally has a nutritional profile that can be beneficial for health. Plus, Alaskan salmon is some of the most sustainable fish to eat.