Why Op Shops Are the Cheapest Place to Shop in Australia (2026)

With rising costs, the question “where is the cheapest place to shop?” is common. For most Australians looking to save money on everyday items, the answer is often the local op shop.

For clothing, homewares, books, and even furniture, charity shops are among the cheapest places for retail. They provide value while also supporting community programs. This guide explains why op shops are the cheapest place to shop and how you can save money.

The op shop value proposition: why is it so cheap?

The op shop pricing model is different from a standard retail store. This is why you can find good value there.

• Free inventory: Most items are donated by the public for free. This means the store’s main cost is not the stock, but its operational expenses.
• Community mission: As non-profits, the goal of Australia’s op shop chains is not to generate large profits, but to raise funds for their charitable work. This allows them to price items affordably.
• Rapid stock turnover: Op shops need to move a large volume of donations. Low prices ensure items sell quickly, making space for new stock daily.

How to save money at op shops

Knowing that op shops are cheap is one thing; finding deals is another. For more tips on managing your money, Australia’s MoneySmart website is a good resource. Here’s how to save at the checkout:

1. Shop on sale days: Many op shops have regular sale days, such as “50% off all clothing.” Follow your favourite local stores on social media to stay updated.
2. Visit stores in different suburbs: Explore the op shops in your city to find a variety of stores and pricing.
3. Look for “fill-a-bag” sales: Some larger warehouses hold “fill-a-bag” events where you can stuff a bag with clothing for a flat price. This is the cheapest way to buy clothes.
4. Focus on high-value categories: The biggest savings are often found on items that have a high retail price. This includes designer brands, but also books (often $1-$5), kids’ clothing, and homewares.

Is it the cheapest for everything?

While op shops are the cheapest place for most second-hand goods, it’s worth noting what they’re not for. They are not the place for groceries or brand-new electronics, although you can sometimes find second-hand electronics. For most new items, traditional retail is necessary.

However, for the majority of your wardrobe, household items, and books, the value offered by an op shop is difficult to beat. They are, without a doubt, a cheap place to shop in Australia for creating a sustainable home and wardrobe.