25 Things We Can Barely Afford Anymore – Simple Family Preparedness

Living in the United States has become increasingly expensive over the past few years. As costs rise, many of us have had to cut back on various purchases. I’ve had to let go of several items and luxuries due to their growing expense. These changes have made me realize which things are easy to live without.

Concert Tickets

Concert tickets have become so expensive that many people are opting out of attending. Less than a decade ago, tickets could be as cheap as $20. Now, $20 won’t even buy you a T-shirt at a concert.

Streaming Services

Prices for streaming services have increased across the board. While $16 or $20 for one service might not seem much, having multiple subscriptions can easily cost over $100 a month. A 2023 survey found that one in four people canceled their subscriptions because they were too expensive.

Soda

Soda is another item that has become too expensive. I remember when a can of soda from a vending machine cost $0.50. Now, in some stores and gas stations, a can can cost up to $2.

Vacations

The cost of vacations, including flights, accommodations, and activities, has soared. Many people are opting for local getaways or skipping vacations altogether to save money.

Pet Care

Pet care expenses, including grooming, veterinary visits, and pet supplies, have increased significantly. Some pet owners are cutting back on professional grooming and opting for DIY solutions.

Furniture

Furniture prices have risen, making it difficult for people to afford new pieces. Many are turning to second-hand stores, online marketplaces, or DIY furniture projects to save money.

Electronics

The cost of electronics, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, continues to climb. People are holding onto their devices longer and avoiding frequent upgrades.

Childcare

Childcare expenses, including daycare and after-school programs, have become a significant financial burden for many families. Some parents are seeking alternative childcare arrangements, such as family help or co-ops, to reduce costs.

Houses

Buying a house feels nearly impossible for many. With the average house price in the U.S. at $495,100 in the second quarter of 2023, most people can’t afford to buy and are choosing to rent or stay with family.

Travel

Travel, whether for vacations or family visits, has become a luxury. The cost of flights, accommodation, and even local transportation has increased. More people are opting for staycations or shorter, less expensive trips closer to home.

Coffee Shops

Although coffee isn’t overly expensive, it adds up over time. Spending $5 daily on coffee equals over $30 a week. It’s much cheaper to buy coffee from the grocery store and add syrups and creamers yourself.

Frozen Pizza

Many people have cut back on groceries, including frozen pizza, which can cost up to $10 for a small or medium size. Instead, people are making their own pizza from scratch. At stores like Aldi, pizza dough costs only $1.25, making homemade pizza much cheaper.

Home Renovations

The price of materials and labor for home improvements has skyrocketed. As a result, many homeowners are postponing or canceling renovation projects, choosing to live with what they have instead of upgrading.

Fast Food

The days of dollar menus at fast food restaurants are long gone. Nowadays, it’s rare to find an item under $3. Fast food prices have increased, and even with declining inflation, costs remain high, prompting people to stop buying fast food.

Food Delivery

Fewer people are ordering food delivery these days, not just fast food. While delivery apps are convenient, they come with high costs and additional fees. Many people have decided to cut back or stop using these services altogether.

Makeup

Makeup prices have also risen. Many people, including myself, are spending less on this luxury. Instead of buying expensive products, beauty enthusiasts are turning to affordable makeup dupes that work just as well. Spending $5 feels much better than $50.

Gym Memberships

The cost of gym memberships has risen, causing many to reconsider their fitness expenses. Monthly fees, along with initiation and maintenance fees, add up quickly. Many people are choosing at-home workouts or outdoor activities instead.

Movie Theaters

Going to the movies isn’t cheap anymore. You have to consider ticket prices, food, and other extras. For some, it’s not worth the cost, and they prefer watching movies at home.

Nail Salons

I used to get my nails done every month when a refill cost $20 to $30. Now, the same service starts at $50. This price increase has led many people, including me, to stop visiting nail salons regularly.

Big Name Brands

Grocery prices have soared, causing many people to buy store brands instead of big-name products. More than half of Americans are now purchasing private label brands.

Cable

Cable has been declining for over a decade. I haven’t subscribed to cable since 2012. The average cost is around $71.37 per month. Cutting the cord can save money, especially if you manage your streaming services well. Streaming offers thousands of movies and series and is more convenient.

Hair Salons

Hair salons have also seen price hikes. Many people are opting to cut their hair at home or visit salons less frequently. Prices vary depending on the salon and service, with specialists charging significantly more.

Christmas Trees

Decorating for the holidays is a cherished tradition, but the rising cost of Christmas trees has led many people to reuse artificial ones. According to a report from the American Christmas Tree Association, 77% of consumers considered displaying an artificial tree in 2023.

Eating Out

Dining at restaurants has become pricier, with menu items and tipping costs going up. Many people are choosing to cook more meals at home, which is more cost-effective and healthier.

Subscription Boxes

Subscription boxes, which deliver curated items to your doorstep monthly, have become a popular trend. However, their costs have led many to cancel their subscriptions, finding them non-essential luxuries.

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