America is expensive.

Having just spent time in Europe I noticed that U.S. pricing is insane.

At our French village biweekly farmers market I bought gorgeous produce, including a huge head of lettuce, shallots, cucumber, leeks and an avocado for 1 Euro 50!

Interesting…I know quite a few people who have traveled abroad to see Taylor Swift and Beyoncé concerts because tickets in America are out of control.

Travel to international events by US buyers increased by 80% in 2023 compared to last year. Americans purchased more tickets for international events on the StubHub platform than fans from any other country.

Restaurants are increasingly expensive. Even takeout places such as Chirping Chicken which was a weekly go to now is the same price as eating in a restaurant.

It appears that the new trend is every time I revisit a dining establishment they have a new menu which is their subtle way of letting you know that prices have increased not that the menu has a refreshed, clean look!

My husband brought home a Magnolia Bakery cupcake for me yesterday. It looks smaller and the price increased to $4.15 from $3.25. This small sweetie starter price in 1996 was $1.25!!

Beyond cupcakes, our parking garage has doubled and our coop maintenance is what some pay for monthly rent. Even subway prices just increased along with ConEd. Not one light or appliance on for 3 weeks and our bill was $150.

The biggest price jumps are in Florida. Groceries, maintenance, insurance are outrageous…prices have quadrupled. Thank you Governor DeSantis. The only homeowners insurance company left in Florida is state sponsored and is rejecting applicants left and right.

As consumers there isn’t much we can do beyond being practical and aware and husbands please turn the lights off when you exit a room!

Anyway, live, love, eat and try to save.

Thankfully, Central Park is still free admission. A perfect day is a no charge walk in the park with my bestie, Finnley. Free-dom!