Frank Davis, 67, thought 2025 would be the year he finally caught a break.
While campaigning, President Trump vowed to “crush inflation,” saying things on the campaign trail like, “Starting on day one, we will end inflation and make America affordable again, to bring down the prices of all goods.”
Sounded good to Frank, so like many Americans, he voted with his wallet. But when the car insurance renewal hit his mailbox in January — up almost 21% — reality set in.
“Washington keeps promising relief,” he says from his modest ranch house outside Dayton, Ohio. “Yet every bill on my kitchen table is bigger than last year’s.”
Frank’s frustration isn’t unique. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that many household staples are still climbing well above the Fed’s 2% comfort zone. Here are 10 common consumer purchases where prices are ballooning, along with tips to fight back.
1. Auto insurance — up 20.6%
What happened: Collision costs, pricier parts and bigger injury payouts are pushing premiums sky-high. Frank’s hit: His six-month policy jumped from $512 to $617.
Potential solutions:
- Shop quotes from at least five insurers. New insurance shopping tools like this one make comparing rates quick.
- Consider raising deductibles, bundling policies or dropping comprehensive coverage on older vehicles.
- Ask about low-mileage, defensive-driving and senior discounts.
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2. Car repair bills — up 11.4%
Parts shortages and higher mechanic wages mean even minor fixes sting. Frank’s SUV needed new brake pads: $460, up from $410 a year ago.
Potential solutions:
- An extended warranty can pay your repair bill upfront. Check it out and see if the cost/benefit works for you.
- Get multiple repair estimates.
- Buy parts online and find shops that allow customer-supplied components.
- Consider independent mechanics over dealerships.
3. Rent — up 7.4%
Landlords are still playing catch-up from pandemic freezes. Frank’s daughter pays $1,350 for a one-bedroom that was $1,250 in 2023.
Potential solutions:
- Negotiate renewal terms before leases expire. Offer longer commitments for lower rates.
- Consider roommates, downsizing or relocating to cheaper neighborhoods.
- Research local rent-control ordinances and tenant protections.
4. Beef and veal — up 14.7%
Drought-thinned cattle herds and export demand pushed steak night out of reach. Frank now buys ground turkey.
Potential solutions:
- Buy manager’s special cuts near expiration. Stock up during sales and freeze portions.
- Try cheaper proteins like chicken thighs, pork shoulder or plant-based alternatives.
- Join warehouse clubs for bulk savings.
5. Flour and prepared mixes — up 8.5%
Home-baked bread isn’t the cheap fallback it used to be. Wheat futures and packaging costs keep rising.
Potential solutions:
- Buy flour in bulk from restaurant suppliers.
- Make mixes from scratch using online recipes.
- Shop ethnic grocery stores for better prices.
- Consider bread machines or no-knead recipes to reduce waste.
6. Sugar and sweets — up 8.2%
Brazil’s crop woes mean higher candy and cookie prices. Frank skips his weekly donut splurge.
Potential solutions:
- Buy generic brands and stock up during holiday sales.
- Make treats at home using bulk ingredients.
- Try natural sweeteners like bananas in baking.
- Limit portion sizes to stretch purchases longer.
7. Pet services and vet care — up 6.9%
Buddy’s annual check-up cost Frank $92, up from $86. Pets are family — and inflation knows it.
Potential solutions:
- Consider pet insurance. Here's a comparison site to check prices.
- Compare vet prices and consider low-cost clinics.
- Buy prescriptions online.
- Learn basic grooming and preventive care at home.
8. Hospital services — up 7.3%
Higher labor costs and continued pandemic backlogs keep medical bills climbing. Frank’s Medicare deductible reset higher too.
Potential solutions:
- Use in-network providers and verify coverage beforehand.
- If you’re on Medicare, make sure you're getting the best deal on things like Medicare Advantage and Medigap coverage.
- Negotiate bills and request itemized statements.
- Apply for financial assistance programs.
- Consider medical tourism for elective procedures.
- Consider an inexpensive health screening test.
9. Cable and satellite TV — up 4.9%
Cord-cutting hasn’t tamed price hikes. Frank finally ditched sports channels to save $18 a month.
Potential solutions:
- Threaten to cancel for retention deals: This often works.
- Switch to streaming services or free options like Pluto TV.
- Share streaming passwords legally with family.
- Use digital antennas for local channels.
10. Home insurance — up 8.4%
Storm losses and rebuilding costs drive premiums. Frank’s renters policy jumped from $210 to $227 monthly.
Potential solutions:
- Free insurance comparison tools like this one will tell you if you’re paying too much.
- Bundle with auto insurance for discounts.
- Increase deductibles to lower premiums.
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