Retail stores carry Crock Pots in their small appliance sections

You can walk into most major retailers and find Crock Pots on the shelf right now. Target, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond stock them year-round in their kitchen appliance aisles. The selection usually includes basic models (3 to 4 quarts) and larger family-size versions (5 to 6 quarts), with prices ranging from around $30 for a straightforward model to $80 or more for ones with digital timers and multiple heat settings.

Grocery stores like Kroger, Safeway, and Whole Foods often carry a smaller selection, usually limited to one or two popular models. These are convenient if you want to grab one while shopping for food, but the choice is narrower than at dedicated appliance or general retailers. Availability varies by location and season—fall and winter tend to have fuller stock because slow cookers are popular for cold-weather cooking.

Specialty kitchen stores like Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table carry premium Crock Pot models and brands, though at higher prices. These stores are useful if you want hands-on help choosing between models or prefer to buy from staff who know the product well.

Online retailers offer the widest selection and often lower prices

Amazon stocks dozens of Crock Pot models, from basic to high-end, and usually ships within two days if you have Prime membership. You can read customer reviews that mention real cooking results and durability, which helps you avoid models with common problems. Prices on Amazon are often lower than in-store, and you can compare models side by side without walking between aisles.

Walmart.com and Target.com let you order online and pick up in-store the same day, which saves shipping costs and gets you the appliance when ready. Both sites show which nearby stores have stock, so you can check before you drive. Online prices are usually the same as in-store, sometimes lower.

Best Buy carries Crock Pots online and in stores, with the same same-day pickup option. Costco (online and in warehouse) rotates Crock Pot models seasonally and often prices them competitively, though selection is limited to a few models at a time.

Key Takeaways

  • Target, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond have Crock Pots in stock in their physical stores, with basic models starting around $30.
  • Amazon offers the largest selection and lowest prices, with two-day shipping if you have Prime membership.
  • Walmart.com and Target.com let you order online and pick up the same day at a nearby store, avoiding shipping costs.
  • Grocery stores carry limited selections but are convenient if you want to buy while shopping for food.
  • Used Crock Pots from thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist cost $5 to $20 and work fine if the heating element and lid are intact.

Used Crock Pots from thrift stores and online marketplaces cost much less

Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local thrift stores often have used Crock Pots for $5 to $15. These are worth checking if you want to save money or try a slow cooker before investing in a new one. Before you buy, plug it in at the store (if they allow it) or ask if you can test it at home with a return window. Look for models where the heating element works, the lid fits snugly, and the cord has no visible damage.

Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp let you buy directly from people in your area. Prices run $5 to $25 depending on the model and condition. Meet in a public place, bring cash, and ask the seller how long they owned it and why they are selling. Test it if possible—plug it in and let it run for a few minutes to confirm the heating element works.

eBay has new and used Crock Pots shipped to you, with buyer protection if something arrives broken. Shipping costs can add $10 to $20 to the final price, so factor that in when comparing to local used options.

What to check before you buy

The most important part is the heating element—if it does not heat, the Crock Pot is useless. For new models, this is may provide, but for used ones, always test it or ask the seller directly. The lid should fit tightly so steam stays inside; a loose or cracked lid means uneven cooking. Check that the cord is intact with no cuts, fraying, or exposed wires.

Decide what size you need before you shop. A 3-quart model feeds 2 to 4 people and fits in most cabinets. A 5 to 6-quart model is better for families or meal prep, but takes up more space. If you cook for one or two people, a smaller model heats faster and uses less counter space.

Think about whether you want extra features like a digital timer, a removable ceramic insert (easier to clean), or multiple heat settings. Basic models with just Low and High heat work fine for most recipes. Fancy features cost more but are not necessary if you are starting out.

Comparing prices across stores

The same Crock Pot model often costs different amounts at different retailers. A popular 6-quart Crock Pot might be $60 at Target, $55 on Amazon, and $50 at Walmart—a $10 difference worth checking. Use Google Shopping or visit three or four sites before you buy to see which has the best price on the exact model you want.

Watch for sales around major holidays. Crock Pots go on sale in September (back-to-school), November (Black Friday), and January (New Year's resolutions). If you are not in a rush, waiting a few weeks can save $10 to $20 on a new model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to buy a used Crock Pot?

Yes, if the heating element works and the cord is not damaged. Crock Pots are straightforward appliances with few parts that fail. Test it by plugging it in and letting it run on Low for 10 minutes—the outside should feel warm. If you buy online, ask the seller how long they owned it and request photos of the cord and heating element.

What is the difference between a Crock Pot brand and a generic slow cooker?

Crock Pot is the original brand name, but many other brands (Hamilton Beach, Cuisinart, when ready Pot) make slow cookers that work the same way. Generic slow cookers are often cheaper and perform just as well. The main difference is warranty and customer service—Crock Pot brand models come with longer warranties.

Can I return a Crock Pot if I buy it in a store?

Yes. Target, Walmart, and Best Buy accept returns within 30 to 90 days if the item is unused or defective. Keep your receipt. Online purchases have the same return windows, though you may need to pay for return shipping unless the item arrived broken.

Where is the cheapest place to buy a Crock Pot?

Walmart and Amazon usually have the lowest prices on new models. For used Crock Pots, thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace are cheapest at $5 to $15. Compare the exact model across three sites before buying, since prices shift weekly.

Do I need to buy the official Crock Pot brand, or will any slow cooker work?

Any slow cooker works the same way—the brand does not matter for cooking. Generic brands from Target, Walmart, and Amazon cook just as well as the Crock Pot brand. Buy based on size, features, and price rather than the brand name.