Dollar stores aren't all equal. Here's what to buy where in DFW.
Dollar Tree (everything $1.25 now):
- Best for: greeting cards, gift bags, party supplies, pregnancy tests (same FDA standard), cleaning supplies
- Skip: food (quality is questionable), electronics, tools
- Best DFW location: Dollar Tree Plus on Belt Line Rd (Irving) — expanded inventory
Dollar General:
- Best for: name-brand food at slight discount, household basics, seasonal items
- Skip: anything that looks like a knockoff brand you've never heard of
- DG Pickup is free and actually works well
- Best DFW location: Market Store locations have full grocery — check the one in Mesquite on Town East
Five Below:
- Best for: phone accessories, games, fitness basics, room decor, snacks
- Skip: anything electronic over $5 (the $5+ section quality is hit or miss)
- Best DFW location: Stonebriar Centre area (Frisco) — newly remodeled
The real savings comparison (same items): | Item | Dollar Tree | Dollar General | Five Below | Walmart | |------|------------|---------------|------------|----------| | Phone charger | $1.25 | $5 | $5 | $8 | | Party plates (8ct) | $1.25 | $2.50 | $3 | $3.50 | | Greeting card | $1.25 | $3 | N/A | $4+ |
Sources:
- In-store price checks March 2026
- Google Maps for DFW locations
What's your dollar store go-to?