When we make buying decisions, we're conditioned toward one common ideal: get the most, give the least.
Usually, that means scanning the shelves and internet to find the cheapest version of whatever it is we want. And usually, that's a solid way of doing it.
Paying for the LaborÂ
<p>"MAPLE SYRUP" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlveqk?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">pickwickswift</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"What, too good for vaguely maple-flavored plasticized corn syrup?"</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Yes, yes you are. Everyone is. Even me, and I'm garbage."</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"The difference is so night and day that I'd much rather have store-brand toaster waffles with real maple syrup over fancy restaurant belgian waffles with the cheap 'syrup.' " -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnmdnot?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">______FRANCIS______</a></p>First Thing of the Day Has to Be Great
<p>"My coffee, gotta have the good stuff." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnl4gp0?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">horselovermidwest</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Cheap coffe taste like crap, needs sugar to taste better, gives you stomach ache, overloaded with caffeine."</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Good quality, organic coffee, taste like comfort in a cup, best taste ever, smooth energy euphoria, doesn't need sugar or milk. People who drink cheap coffee daily, just because it's 3$ cheaper, are not living their best lives.' " -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlzzx9?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Snowfreak2507</a><br></p>Taste the DifferenceÂ
<p>"Tea. Life is too short anything but the best" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnl9bsn?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">aegirthorst</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Absolutely ...even if one is twice the price it's still only 5 cents a cup and soooo much better" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlizev?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">sznfpv</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Oh my gosh. I tried a new brand recently because it was on sale... never again. I feel like I'm drinking toilet water, but I'm too stubborn to just throw it out until I finish the box." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlyh3q?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">hblond3</a></p>The Best of the Poisons
<p>"Booze, I don't go for the really expensive stuff, but if you are going to harm yourself at least do it with something you like" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnloqlu?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Mr_Agu</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I used to not like whiskey or gin until I tried good whiskey and gin and now I like them both. There is a big difference between an $8 bottle of crap and $70 bottle of booze, if you aren't drinking for quantity buy quality." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlv7mo?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">tossme68</a></p>Bottom StuffÂ
<p>"Foot wear and bedding. You spend so much time in both that it should be comfy!" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnkzixw?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Fordinneridlikea69</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"My mom used to tell me, 'never skimp on things that go between you and the ground.' "</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Footwear: sock and shoes Bedding: home and camping equipment Tires." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlg02g?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">brokenbadlab</a></p>Hours of Comfort
<p>"Anything i'll be using for an extended period of time (hours in succession) So a bed, PC, Clothes, Chair etc." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnleamj?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">AussieCollector</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"Monitor! Good god, when i took out the old x230 and turned it on, i almost cried. I played over a hundred hours of dark souls with keyboard and mouse on that tiny, horrible screen."</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"My neck, my back, and my eyes are more important than some money i have to pay once" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnm5snf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">goldenwsd</a></p>An Intimate Product Â
<p>"Toilet paper. I literally cannot afford to pay my bills rn but the last time I bought cheap toilet paper it legit made my a** bleed lol." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlc2kf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">MissCheyenne14</a></p><p>"Toilet paper. My sensitive butt can't handle 2 ply sand paper." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlaol7?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">GenXer73</a></p>Always ThereÂ
<p>"Glasses. I get all the fixings on my classes because they never leave my face. They are the single thing I wear/use more than anything. Love to read too."</p><p>"I will shop and shop for whatever frames I want and won't even look at the price. Glasses and my kids are why I max my fsa."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnm0wul?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Haithin4</a></p>Clean LinesÂ
<p>"art supplies. no way in hell am i using those crusty af markers that are already dry and those colored pencils that break after 2 uses and barely make a mark on the paper" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlpxs7?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Dazedlogicanimates</a></p><p>"Almost all art / writing supplies."</p><p>"I use 'expensive' pens and mechanical pencils on a daily basis. The difference is uncanny. When I have other work to do, I use natural brushes and the best paper I can get my hands on."</p><p>"When I started out I tried to save some money by buying cheap things (paint, pens, pencils, lead, paper) and had to go to the store once or twice a month because something I had broke or didn't work properly. My last mechanical pencil lasted 5 years because I lost it when renovating my studio."</p><p>"I am also a firm believer that the better the materials and tools, the better the results. Even if it's all in your mind, you will perform better at the end of it...." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnlwaxl?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">OddPattern2</a></p>Thumping
<p>"Headphones. The difference between a quality pair over 250 and the 5 buck ones is incredible. Only really important if you are obsessed with music and it plays a big part in your life."</p><p>"If music is your medicine you need good headphones."</p><p><span></span>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lkp25c/what_is_something_you_refuse_to_buy_the_cheap/gnm2zc1?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Novel-Able</a></p>People Share Their Most Memorable 'If It Costs You Your Peace, Then It's Too Expensive' Moment
We humans are not the best at applying reason-driven cost-benefit analysis in real time. Instead, an event suddenly takes place and we're pulled deeper and deeper into an emotional response.
Sitting Duck
<p>"Ever fight over a parking spot and win, and then realize as you're walking away from the car that it will be left unattended for who knows how long?" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glniy9p?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">DougFordSucksFightMe</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I've never understood people getting so worked up over a parking spot unless it's in the city or something like that where parking spots are rare and you may have to walk an hour to get where you need to go" -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glo5hej?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">ParkityParkPark</a></p>The Bottomless Supply of TrollsÂ
<p>"Winning arguments on Reddit. Nine times out of ten I just let it go, because otherwise I will literally spend all day on a pointless argument with someone who doesn't even have a face." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnfmm6?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Alex_Duos</a><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnfmm6?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3"></a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"For me, it's all about the stubbornness to entertainment ratio. If I'm going to be arguing online with some other a**hole, I damn sure better be enjoying myself, or else it's just not worth it." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnho4o?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Smegma_On_Demand</a></p>Sometimes Ya Just Want Something NiceÂ
<p>"I had a 20 year old Saturn that I intended to drive until the wheels fell off. Well even though COVID has meant I basically never leave the house, I bought a new car in 2020."</p><p>"I've put about 1500 miles on it so far, and that's it. But the thing is, even though I rarely drive it, when I DO drive it I'm no longer asking myself the question "Is today the day the wheels fall off?" every time I leave town."</p><p>"Some may argue buying a new car I've hardly driven is a stupid move. I say I'd rather be stupid and happy than smart and miserable."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glo60ym?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">m31td0wn</a></p>Not Worth ZombificationÂ
<p>"Work-life balance in my job. Nothing is ever on fire, nothing has to be dealt with at 11 at night or on the weekends regardless of who's sending a Slack at those times."</p><p>"I protect my evenings and weekends with a ferocity."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnj930?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Fearless_Lab</a></p>Un-tetheredÂ
<p>"My husband's family has money. When we were first starting out, we were encouraged to ask his grandparents for help, but we didn't want to. When we bought our first home, they were 'offended' that we got a mortgage from a bank instead of using 'family money.'" </p><p>"Twenty years later, we are happy in our own little bubble. We have no stake in any family drama, and we only visit when we feel like it. We don't owe anybody a damn thing, and even though it sometimes sucks to be the poor relations, the peace of mind is priceless."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glo14lv?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">yer__mom_isloveley</a></p>LET. IT. GO.
<p>"I used to carry around a lot of hate."</p><p>"I had a few people that I relished the idea of provoking into a fight so I could do serious harm."</p><p>"It took a while, but eventually I learned what it was doing to me, and realized that they probably didn't give me a second thought. They were getting free real estate in my head."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glog7ih?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">ApolloThunder</a></p>Two Solutions: Generosity, or Buying More FriesÂ
<p>"When my girlfriend swore up and down the drive thru that she wasn't hungry and didn't want anything, then snacks on my animal fries the whole way home."</p><p>"Being hangry enough to brake check the whole thing on to the floor wasn't worth the fallout. One of my ugliest moments as an adult and should have just taken the fry tax."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glokw9d?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">InevitablyEngine</a></p>Like the Trolls, They'll Keep Coming
<p><em>"Bad</em> customers. I've learned over the years to turn away difficult clients/jobs. Some people won't be happy, regardless what you give them. I don't need that anxiety no more." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnyvjd?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">12vElectronics</a></p><p style="margin-left: 20px;">"I'll have to learn to do this better. I cut a some clients a few years ago and things dramatically improved. They were talking up too much time for the reward. Others have now crept into the system though. I'll have to start a cull again. The 80/20 rule springs to mind." -- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glp59ec?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">StingerMcGee</a></p>Enough Is EnoughÂ
<p>"My relationship with my brother. I grew up with the 'blood is thicker than water' mentality, but he treated me in ways that made me feel worthless. I haven't spoken to him in about five years."</p><p>"He can think whatever he wants about me, but I don't need to hear it."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/gloalhs?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">PlasticineRobot</a></p>It's a Third of Your Life
<p>"Work environment."</p><p>"This past year I resigned from a job (one in my field) that was literally causing me to have full-blown panic attacks from stress for a job that pays less. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my chest. No job is worth being unhappy."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnlzng?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Iamjackslama</a></p>Extrinsic Motivation
<p>"Playing a high level sport. Played baseball since I was a kid, very good at it, started to get scouted by universities and even some Pro teams."</p><p>"Eventually I got a scholarship for it to go to a school in the states (from Canada) as I got older though I realized I didn't love it, just enjoyed being good at it and seeing my parents happy."</p><p>"When I got to university it was a total struggle, I'm not one to need motivation to practice or workout but I hated my team, hated my coaching staff, didn't like the school either but kept going because I didn't want to disappoint anyone."</p><p>"Fast forward to Covid with no baseball and all this free time on my hands to pursue other passions and fun things I couldn't while always playing baseball. Now because of the pandemic I've realized there's so much more than just trying to make others happy."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glotj6d?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">awkarfnar</a></p>Carrying More Than Your Share
<p>"Taking care of other people/ friends mental health constantly. I didn't mind venting but I definitely let people vent to me too much and the worry kept me up at night."</p><p>"Thankfully my friends don't do it as much anymore and it's much calmer"</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glo9c9b?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Idiotic_oliver</a></p>The Weight of Ethics
<p>"Working jobs where the company's activities were detrimental to society, the environment, or both."</p><p>"Yeah, evil jobs may pay better, but I sleep better knowing what I do improves the world in some tiny way."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnkpef?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Nonsenseinabag</a></p>Less
<p>"Deciding what to keep and what to get rid of. I've been downsizing quite a bit over the last few months in favour of minimalist living and I honestly feel so much better after getting rid of so much stuff."</p><p>"I've already gotten rid of close to 50% of my things and it is like a huge weight has been lifted. Why the hell did I have so much useless crap?"</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glp661a?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">EHXKOR</a></p>Cost-Benefit Analysis, Explained
<p>"I wanted to wear a top hat at my wedding. I like hats, and when else am I gonna wear a top hat?"</p><p>"But my wife was adamantly against it. She is about a head shorter than me, and all of my family is taller than her, and a top hat would make it even more apparent."</p><p>"So I didn't wear a top hat. Any benefit I'd get from it would have been outweighed by annoying her, and I decided it wasn't worth it."</p><p>"But there were compromises. It was my idea to get a bouncy castle in, which was a very popular addition on the day!"</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glo6tzi?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">lankymjc</a></p>Decluttering
<p>"Past failed relationships. When the ex tried to reconnect after three years and a break up text that said 'We're done.' I spent so long wondering what I did wrong and it took a while to realize it wasn't my fault at all but theirs for trying to control things."</p><p>"They sent an email but the only thing I saw was the title and it just sits unread in my inbox. I don't need to reopen that past when my present and future are going great."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glonkxa?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Ellysian14</a></p>So What's It For?
<p>"Home insurance and home warranty."</p><p>"I pay for a service. When I call to make a claim and use the service it is denied, 100% of the time. So then I have to spend a week arguing about why it shouldn't be denied, or why I should get my money back. Not worth it."</p><p>-- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lae4tt/if_it_costs_you_your_peace_its_too_expensive_when/glnjswr?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Whooplaah</a></p>It's actually really ridiculously expensive to be poor - an unfortunate truth that a lot of people are learning firsthand this year. There are even some among us who are too poor to be able to afford to work.
We know, it sounds like a complete contradiction; but it's a reality for a shockingly large number of people.
Fees On Fees On Fees
<p>Overdraft fees. Oh, you ran out of money? We'll just charge you more then!</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggf3bdq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">VonSnapp</a></p><p>My bank just switched our free checking to an account with a monthly fee. $7.00 a month if your account goes under $10. So if it goes under $10 they basically just help themselves to your remaining balance? It really chaps my behind. </p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggfednf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">ComprehensiveSet902</a></p><p>While charging overdraft fees they <em>also</em> want to charge you fees for your debit payments failing - each one. But they failed cause the bank processed them started with the <em>biggest</em> payment instead of the order you spent and each fee lowers your balance till the last one also fails.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggf8311?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">MyPacman</a></p><p>NSF fees too. Juggling bills becomes hazardous. If you guess wrong, or lose track, or have a sudden emergency, or someone cashes a check you thought they'd already done, or an automatic withdrawal (which got me the most frequently). The payment gets refused, which, sure, if the money's not there of course the bill isn't paid. But then the company charges you an NSF fee, and so does the bank, and the bill you already weren't able to pay just got 50-100$ more expensive.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggfvpuz?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Mjolinirsbear</a></p>The Differences
<p>In the past 10 years, I've gone from borderline poverty to being upper middle class. Here are some of the differences:</p><p>- An overdraft/late fee could be as much as 10% of my savings account. Now it's a drop in a bucket, and having white collar job, means I know how to effectively negotiate to have fees waived.</p><p>- When you're broke you can only afford cheap products that break easily, Now I buy quality products that are built to last for years.</p>Shoes
<p>Shoes.</p><p>Better shoes last longer before they need to be replaced. But they cost to much for me to afford them, leaving me with sub-par shoes that need to be replaced more often.</p><p>It's not easy staying healthy on a tiny budget. I stay fat. Shoes wear out. It's expensive for my body.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggeb0df?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">[Reddit]</a></p>Rent
<p>Housing. The longer you commit to stay, the lower your monthly price. But poor people don't always know where they'll be in a few months time, especially these days.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggeez0u?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">SPP_TheChoiceForMe</a></p><p>Oh man, got a really good look at that recently. Me and my fiancee wanted to move to a new house, and we didn't know how long it would take to sell the old one and find one we liked, so we rented an apartment in the meantime.</p>The Breakdown
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDk4NzA4OC9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MDg0NzU5MX0.5IWcZL-71s6nviCN3gSZOlOZiQZwiuN9mjvYrVaSY0c/img.gif?width=980" id="24033" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6f1896dcc846f08865ce37dadb5232d0" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="480" data-height="360" />car trouble vintage GIFGiphy<p>Not being able to afford routine car maintenance and then having to shell out thousands when it breaks down</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggeckuq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Grass-Content</a></p><p>Nothing like having to push your car off an intersection because it suddenly died and won't restart, never mind if you were on your way to school, work or similar. It's a great way to lose your job.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggf9d0k?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">MyPacman</a></p><p>This. THIS! THIS THIS THIS. And having a flat tire every other week because you can't afford new ones. Spending ten bucks a pop to have your old tires patched when a new one (for your cheap little clunker car) costs $85 but you can't afford that because you've spent ten bucks a week for the last six months getting patches.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggfgfqa?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Pokey1984</a></p>Laundry
<p>Coin laundry :(</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggevtn1?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">camriver</a></p><p>I'm feeling this one. </p><p>My washing machine went kerplooey two weeks ago. I finally broke down and went to the only laundromat in my rural county. </p><p>$4.25 to wash each load, $1.75 to dry each load. I spent twenty bucks doing three loads of laundry. </p><p>That's $480 a year to load up my stuff and take it to a communal laundromat, during a pandemic. Holy f*ck I miss my washing machine.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggg3d37?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">SuperTurnip</a></p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggg3d37?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank"></a>Or to put it another way, and really drive home the "expensive to be poor" aspect, in a year you'll have spent enough money to buy a brand new washing machine, without getting the washing machine.</p><p>And that's not counting the time spent there. At home you can multitask while the laundry's going.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/gggjv5m?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">CommodoreBelmont</a></p>Can't Afford Health
<p>So I'm in the US and it's "Open Enrollment" I've been looking at health insurance plans for a few weeks now. Here's my best option, as a 36-year-old single white woman with no health problems.</p><p>$235 per month (discount because I'm low-income) premium. $85 co-pay for normal doctor's visit. $145 if the doctor treats something in-office. I pay any in-office supplies that were used out of pocket. $13,000 deductible. Insurance pays 40% of hospital visits and overnight stays. Separate $7000 deductible for prescriptions. Zero dental or vision care.</p><p>Guys, I make between $800 and $900 per month. That's a quarter of my income as a premium alone. Which would be great, except if I pay the premium, I don't have any money left over for the co-pay, so I literally can't afford to both buy the policy and use it.</p>Freebies For The Rich?
<p>An inverse example is all the things rich/well-paid people get for free: </p><p>paid vacation days, gym/pool in your building, company cell phone allowance, commute reimbursement, retirement match and investing advice, paid lunches and travel, education opportunities, ability to participate in investment opportunities, references to even more highly paid jobs, etc etc.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/ggffopt?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">BurtReebus</a></p><p>It is definitely frustrating when I hear about rich celebrities getting giftbags with tens of thousands of dollars worth of merchandise in them. That is just silly.</p><p>- <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kgfpoj/whats_your_example_of_its_expensive_to_be_poor/gggkm77?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">AbandonAllHope</a></p>Food
<p>Food.</p><p>Everyone always argues "it's cheaper to eat healthy! Buy X, Y, Z in bulk, check A, B, and C specialty grocery stores, meal prep and freeze for the week, grow your own produce!" But these sorts of solutions really require a base level of wealth to begin with. Not a <em>ton</em> of wealth. If you're lower-middle class but still ending up in the red because you eat out too much, you can probably (<em>probably</em>) use these tips to cut your food budget enough to make a difference. But to do these things you need:</p>Wholesale
<p>I used to think that Costco was good for bulk sales</p><p>My son founded a food charity and we started applying for business licenses. Guy mentioned a wholesaler to me. </p><p>My son and I went to the wholesaler and he had 200lb pallets of pork shoulder for pulled pork- which my son needs- for $140! 200 lbs of food, which my son uses to feed like 500 homeless people- for $140.</p><p>Or like 1000 chicken legs in cases for $0.29 per lb. something like $80 for 1000 chicken legs.</p><p>Can you imagine if you were dead broke and spent $80 on 1000 chicken legs- you could eat for 6 months. Working with real food wholesalers is so much crazier than anything I expected.</p>When you watch "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" or "Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous" you're mesmerized... must be all the grandiose opulence. At least I am. Wondering how does one become a part of all that grandeur and how much does everything cost?
Redditor u/Kalieth wanted to know how people reacted to grand opulence by asking.... What's the most outrageously expensive thing you seen in person?Wrist Bling
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDk1ODkwMC9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MDcxMjU2MH0.8X5ZB-z9aVNX7P1HqdVsfssytq3pDsHHE24nc24uAYU/img.gif?width=980" id="13842" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5a531e70139aa0b881da6e2127b2c7e3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="380" data-height="285" />gucci mane dancing GIFGiphy<p>A 12 year old Russian kid who came to stay at a 'summer camp' I worked at, that has a £64,000 Rolex. We later found out that his '14 year old cousin' was actually his 28 year old body guard, and he was the son of a Russian diplomat. All around nice kid, though! </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfr3wuc?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">LeaveNoStonedUnturn</a></p>The Lewrk
<p>The set designs for fashion shows. When I was working as a scenic carpenter I was always amazed at the amount of money spent on scenery that will go right into the trash for events that last 30 minutes to a couple of hours. We covered an empty warehouse floor in Manhattan with something like 50,000 square feet of beveled oak boards in one instance. Material costs aside, we had a crew of around 20 guys making at minimum $25/hr working for days around the clock to make it happen. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfqa9sn?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ralph_hopkins</a></p>In a Gloved Hand
<p>The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime in steel at an "Only watch" showing in London. All the big watch companies do a one-off for the charity auction, and Patek usually only do watches in precious metals. A grand complication in steel is truly a one-off. It sold for 31 million Swiss Francs (close to 35M USD).</p><p>I actually held it in my (gloved) hand. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfq4gel?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Salty_Paroxysm</a><span></span></p>Art
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDk1ODkxMi9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NjE3MjI2Nn0.y1iVWZ1gqyjaDhy2-xF_8BAeGuac3hHp5NbkunqM54U/img.gif?width=980" id="cb29f" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="f6710e41340be5868f4ad080df329991" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="480" data-height="360" />picasso GIF by Alex ApostolidesGiphy<p>The CEO of my husband's company years back held a christmas party at this house (at the time, the company was a start up and there was maybe 20 employees). He had original Picasso art work on his walls. I have no idea how much they were actually worth, but I thought that was pretty cool. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfql492?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">ToastedMaple</a><br></p>Ships Ahoy!Â
<p>My sister used to work on superyachts. I'd go visit her every now and again and stay on the boat during the off-season (in crew quarters). This was about half a billion euros worth of boat.</p><p>And it was pretty damn fancy. It had glass flooring and staircases, that turned opaque if you stood on them so people couldn't look up your skirt, all the usual fancy boat crap like a spa and gym and movies that hadn't even been released at the cinema yet. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfpbyem?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">pocketfullofuranium</a><span data-verified="redactor" data-redactor-tag="span"></span></p>Days of Luthier
<p>Years ago, I apprenticed as a luthier. The shop I worked in was almost entirely guitar repair, and one day a woman came in with a violin. She said it was her grandfather's (or maybe great grandfather's? I can't recall), and he had played in the Detroit symphony. It was obvious that the fingerboard had been replaced at some point, and the instrument was really old. Like, REALLY old. My boss knew a guy who specialized in violins, so he drove a couple hours to have him take a look at it. The guy told him to get it out of our shop immediately and send them to a specialist in Chicago. </p>When at Harrod's....
<p>Outside of the Crown Jewels and art museums, I went to Harrod's and saw a chandelier worth £50,000.</p><p><strong><em>Edit: </em></strong>Some people are taking this quite literally. To be clear, yes, of course I've seen more expensive items, hence the Crown Jewels. This wasn't a grand hall chandelier. This was something you could hang over a standard dining room table.</p>I Hear a Symphony
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDk1ODkyMC9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3NTQzMjUwN30.QpMahV3H0w2ntVgsotYczvcDjVapV2IF6AO11hUavrs/img.gif?width=980" id="f2512" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5d089fab55daf97ec37f5c76940439e7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="500" data-height="281" />season 2 wow GIF by NBCGiphy<p>My high school orchestra teacher (who is also concert master for the Arkansas Symphony) was loaned a $12 million Stradivarius anonymously for an upcoming performance. I wasn't allowed to touch it, but I got a solid look at it, as well as heard it from three feet away. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfpw3xz?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">GalacticExpress</a></p>In Diamonds....
<p>A freshly drafted NFL rookie stayed at a hotel I worked at and partied a little too hard. When checking out he left over 100K in jewelry in the room. I was tasked with going and getting it and securing it till someone from his posse could come get it. I wore it for a few hours for fun.<br></p><p>Heavy AF and so freakin' shiny. A bracelet that was wider than the biggest watch covered in diamonds, and a chain that went past my sternum and probably 1/2in in thickness also completely encrusted in diamonds. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfqai4t?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Thrilling1031</a></p>Dive In
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDk1ODkyNC9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MjgzNzMxNn0.X18bY5hAKC4esC7pvGIo5Knkb6dAxRVzuXYWVeujLHg/img.gif?width=980" id="3f329" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3f30b463f59f8fd835962de6357fdf8b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="500" data-height="281" />Labor Day Reaction GIF by NEONGiphy<p>I went to a party at a pool house when I was a teenager just the pool house was 4,000 sq ft. The kid's grandfather invented sheetrock. </p><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/kcbhrv/whats_the_most_outrageously_expensive_thing_you/gfq2jta?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3" target="_blank">Kodil2019</a></p>People Break Down Which Expensive Things They Only Realized The Cost Of Once They Were Adults
Until you start paying the bills you never really understand how high the tally can rise. You don't think about monetary amounts until you have to earn it--then you're shocked by how even the items or tasks that seemed small and cheap were breaking the bank. Like underwear or socks... they can be pricey. I used to have a ton of pairs, in all colors and lengths but good socks ain't cheap. Even at the cheap store. Ten bucks for six pair feels excessive to me.
Redditor u/Zarellto_v2 wanted to discuss the worth we did not recognize through naive eyes by asking..... What is one item you did not realize was expensive, until you became an adult?