People Are Sharing The Things That Felt “Normal” And “Affordable” In America 5 To 10 Years Ago That Now Feel Completely Out Of Reach
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By Julia Corrigan
Published on March 24, 2026.
Reddit user the_h1b_records posted a question on Ask Reddit's Ask Reddit page about what once felt "normal" and "affordable" in America five to 10 years ago, now feels impossible for regular people. The answers varied from living in an apartment by yourself to living in a larger house, utilities, and children. Rent has been rising by 10% a year for the last five, with a 58% increase over inflation. The cost of living in the same neighborhood has increased significantly since the late 1980s. Meanwhile, healthcare without the debt is becoming more difficult. The article also included examples of people struggling to afford fast food and car insurance.
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