7 Things That Are More Expensive Than They Used To Be — But Don’t Last as Long
Written by
Sean Fisher, AI Editor
Edited by
Sean Fisher
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In a world where the cost of living is constantly on the rise, it’s frustrating to see that many products don’t offer the longevity they once did. Here are seven items that have become more expensive over time but don’t seem to last as long:
Appliances
Past: From a Wards dishwasher in the 1980s costing around $360 (about $1,200 adjusted for inflation) to a Whirlpool refrigerator in the 1960s costing about $220 (around $2,300 adjusted for inflation), with an expected lifespan of 20-30 years on both of these items. The Wards dishwasher known to be cheaper and much more energy efficient than the average modern dishwasher, and the Whirlpool refrigerator having more item space and a giant freezer capacity at a cheaper price than average modern refrigerators, are really a sign of the times. Only two examples of many that really makes modern appliance shopping a headscratcher.
Present: Modern appliances, while featuring advanced technology, often come with heftier price tags and shorter lifespans. A high-end dishwasher today can cost upwards of $1,000, and a comparable refrigerator can easily exceed $2,500, yet their expected lifespans are typically only 10-15 years.
Furniture
Past: Solid wood furniture was the norm, known for its durability and longevity. A well-made wooden dining table might have cost a few hundred dollars but could last for generations and still does in many homes today.
Present: With the popularization of quick and cheap furniture such as stores like IKEA, contemporary furniture pieces are made with more inexpensive materials like particleboard and veneers. A particleboard bookshelf might cost $200 or even much cheaper, but is likely prone to sagging and damage within a few years.
Clothing and Shoes
Past: Quality clothing and shoes were made to last, with materials and craftsmanship that justified the cost. A pair of leather shoes could last for years.
Present: The rise of fast fashion with the popularization of stores such as H&M as one only one example, has led to a surge in the manufacturing of clothing and shoe prices, but the use of cheaper materials means they wear out faster. A pair of trendy sneakers might cost $120 but need replacing after six months of regular use.
Homes
Past: Homes were built with high-quality materials and attention to detail. A mid-century home might have cost $20,000 (about $180,000 adjusted for inflation) and featured sturdy construction.
Present: New homes might boast modern amenities, but the use of lower-quality materials can lead to issues like thin walls or poor insulation. A comparable new home can easily cost $300,000 or more.
Cars
Past: Cars were simpler and more affordable, with many models lasting well over a decade. A reliable sedan from the 1980s might have cost $8,000 (about $21,000 adjusted for inflation).
Present: Modern cars come with advanced technology but often require costly repairs and may not last as long without significant maintenance. A similar sedan today can easily cost $30,000 or more.
Food
Past: Groceries were made with fewer preservatives, and eating out was a rare treat. A home-cooked meal generally meant fresher ingredients and healthier options. Plus, if you wanted fast food you could grab McDonalds hamburger for 15 cents in 1955, with arguably better quality too.
Present: The quality of some grocery items has declined, with an increase in processed foods. Restaurant prices have risen, but portion sizes have decreased, and the quality of ingredients is not always as high. A hamburger at McDonalds today cost a staggering $3.79.
Tools
Past: Hand tools were made from high-quality steel and could be passed down through generations.
Present: Many modern tools are made with lower-quality materials and are more expensive. A similar set of wrenches today might cost $200 but not last as long due to inferior materials.
The trend of paying more for products that don’t last as long is a concerning one, as it leads to increased waste and a higher cost of living over time. Consumers are left yearning for the days when products were built to last and offered better value for money.
Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.
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