10 Things That Used To Be Affordable (but Aren’t Now)

It’s not just you—prices have gone way up. Stuff that used to be part of your regular budget now feels like a stretch. Groceries, coffee, even a simple night out… they all hit harder than they used to. Here are ten things that once felt affordable and now have you second-guessing the splurge.

Fast Food Meals

Grabbing a quick bite used to be the budget-friendly option. Now? A fast food combo can easily cost as much as a casual sit-down meal. Even value menus aren’t so “value” anymore, and families are rethinking how often they hit the drive-thru.

Concert Tickets

Seeing your favorite artist live used to be a fun splurge. Today, between dynamic pricing, service fees, and resellers, tickets can cost hundreds—sometimes before you even add parking. It’s pricing out fans who just want to enjoy a night of music.

Rent

Once considered a temporary, affordable housing solution, rent has skyrocketed in cities and suburbs alike. Even modest apartments now eat up a big chunk of people’s paychecks, leaving little room for savings or anything extra.

Groceries

The weekly grocery bill isn’t so routine anymore. Basics like eggs, bread, and meat have all jumped in price, and people are feeling it. Shoppers are cutting back, switching brands, or shopping multiple stores just to keep food on the table.

Haircuts and Salon Visits

A simple trim or color treatment used to be a routine expense—now it feels like a luxury. Prices have gone up across the board, and tips are expected on top of already higher service fees. Some people are learning to DIY or stretching out appointments.

Streaming Services

Streaming used to be the cheaper alternative to cable. But with so many platforms raising prices, cracking down on password sharing, and releasing less content, monthly costs add up fast. What was once affordable entertainment now feels like a juggling act.

Childcare

Daycare and after-school care were always an expense, but now they rival a mortgage payment in some areas. Rising wages for workers (while needed) have pushed costs even higher, forcing many parents to rethink their schedules or leave the workforce.

Used Cars

Used vehicles were once the go-to for anyone on a tight budget. Lately, though, their prices have soared—sometimes nearing the cost of brand-new models. It’s made reliable transportation feel less accessible for people who aren’t looking to finance something new.

Household Essentials

Everyday items like laundry detergent, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies quietly climbed in price. You may not notice it at first, but that extra dollar here and there adds up. What used to be a $20 stock-up run can now cost $40 without warning.

Going to the Movies

A trip to the movies used to be an easy night out. Now? Add up tickets, popcorn, and drinks, and you’re easily spending way more than $50 for two people. For many, streaming at home is basically the only affordable option left.

Rethink What “Normal” Costs

The definition of “affordable” has changed. As prices creep up across nearly every category, people are adjusting their habits and looking for smarter ways to spend. It’s not about giving up what you enjoy—it’s about staying aware and finding new ways to make your money work.

This article first appeared on Cents + Purpose.