Tish Lopez
Cosmetologist
Being a single mom, rising prices have been a challenge. The costs are adding up more and more each week. I pay $180 a week in daycare, and I also have to send food with my child to daycare. There are strict dietary guidelines that I have to follow, so I can’t cut back on the healthier foods that are more expensive. I mainly work for tips, and I don’t know how someone could work for just wages and no tips in this economy.
Elliot Ferris
Plumber
I have a wife and family. We have two kids, and the cost of food has risen dramatically. We eat a lot of eggs and beef for our protein. We’re always looking for deals, and that’s nearly impossible. Costs are over the top. Each political party has said that they’re going to fix the problem, but I don’t see a chance anytime in the near future.
Jonathan Dixon
Table games dealer
The prices make it tough. Some food products are coming in smaller packaging with smaller quantities at a higher price—shrinkflation. And wages aren’t keeping up with the difference. At a casino in Vegas, a small bottle of water now costs $9!
Chloe Barraza
Medical assistant
Prices directly affect the way I choose to spend my money. I don’t shop at a major grocery store anymore, even though it’s closer to my house. I’ll drive to shop at discount stores even though they’re farther away. My girlfriend gets a discount at the grocery store where she works, and I have roommates, which helps out with costs. But without them, I’d have to move back home. I don’t want to do that; I value my independence.
Dena Kelati
Cashier/stocker
It’s changed my budgeting, and I’m now more mindful of how I spend my money. I’m buying fewer groceries and less nutritious food. It’s easier to go get a quick, cheap fast-food meal. I still buy groceries for my house, but I’m buying more processed foods that will last on the shelf longer—less healthy, but more cost-effective.