Things That Were Affordable 5 Years Ago (But Not Anymore)

Things are obviously more expensive now. Prices on everyday items have jumped so much that what used to be affordable now feels like a stretch. Here are fourteen examples of purchases that no longer fit easily into the budget.

Groceries

Five years ago, a cart of groceries didn’t leave you in shock at checkout. Now, basic staples like milk, bread, and eggs come with a noticeable markup. Rising transportation costs, supply chain issues, and inflation have pushed food budgets to the limit.

Rent

Affordable rentals have become harder to find, especially in cities and popular suburbs. Even modest apartments now carry price tags that rival mortgage payments, forcing many renters to make tough compromises.

Gasoline

Filling up the tank was once an afterthought. Today, volatile oil prices and higher taxes in some areas mean even small cars cost significantly more to keep on the road.

Used Cars

The used car market has changed dramatically, with prices climbing due to limited inventory and high demand. A reliable older car that was once a bargain now feels like a luxury purchase.

Fast Food

Grabbing a quick meal used to be a budget-friendly option. These days, combo meals from popular chains can cost nearly as much as dining in at a casual restaurant.

Streaming Services

Subscriptions were once an affordable alternative to cable. Now, with price hikes and the need for multiple platforms to watch everything you want, monthly streaming costs have crept up fast.

Clothing

Everyday apparel from mid-range brands is more expensive, and sales aren’t as generous as they once were. Many shoppers are turning to resale apps to keep clothing budgets in check.

Home Repairs

From roof work to plumbing, repair bills have ballooned thanks to labor shortages and higher material costs. A small home maintenance job now requires serious budgeting.

Concert Tickets

Live events used to be an occasional splurge. With higher base prices, added fees, and dynamic pricing, seeing your favorite band can now rival the cost of a weekend getaway.

Childcare

Daycare rates have climbed well beyond inflation, leaving families struggling to balance work and affordability. For many, childcare now rivals rent or mortgage payments.

Airfare

A flight that was once a reasonable getaway cost now feels like a major expense. Fewer routes, higher demand, and increased fuel costs have made travel more exclusive.

Coffee Shop Drinks

That daily latte habit is hitting wallets harder than ever. Specialty drinks have seen steep price increases, making at-home brewing a more attractive option.

Insurance Premiums

Health, auto, and home insurance premiums have all trended upward. Even with the same coverage, many households are paying hundreds more per year.

Groceries for Special Diets

Gluten-free, organic, and other specialty foods have become noticeably pricier. What was once an affordable dietary choice now requires extra planning and budgeting.

The New Cost of “Normal”

What used to feel like small expenses or routine purchases now demands more thought and trade-offs. For many households, adjusting expectations has become part of everyday budgeting.

17 Essential Products You Could Live Without (And Save Big)

We’ve all been there—buying something because it’s labeled as “essential” rather than truly asking if it’s necessary. It’s easy to get caught up in grabbing things that promise ease or luxury, only to realize later they’re collecting dust. The truth? Many of these so-called essentials aren’t so essential, and skipping them can fatten your wallet faster than you think. Here’s a rundown of common items you could do without and what you can use instead. 17 Essential Products You Could Live Without (And Save Big)