From Eggs to Hotels, Prices Soar as Inflation Redefines Daily Life

July 18, 2025

American consumers are facing significant financial strain as prices have risen approximately 26% since the COVID-19 pandemic began, making many everyday purchases and experiences increasingly unaffordable. Hotel rooms, rental cars, groceries, and dining out have all seen dramatic price increases, with hotel rates up 24% over the past decade and restaurant prices soaring 49. 3% in the same period.

Who is affected

American consumers across all income brackets
Families trying to afford travel, dining, and entertainment
Travelers facing high hotel rates in cities like Manhattan, Miami Beach, and Las Vegas
Grocery shoppers paying higher prices for essentials like eggs and baby products
Entertainment seekers dealing with increased costs for concerts, theater tickets, and theme parks

What action is being taken

Companies are continuing to raise prices across various sectors including hotels, rental cars, airlines, restaurants, and entertainment
Airlines are "unbundling" services to show lower headline fares while adding fees, as exemplified by Southwest Airlines ending its "bags fly free" policy
The Waffle House restaurant chain temporarily imposed a 50-cent surcharge per egg due to rising costs
Some companies are exploiting the situation to maintain or increase profit margins according to Lindsay Owens of the Groundwork Collaborative

Why it matters

Everyday experiences and necessities are becoming unaffordable for many Americans
The price increases affect essential goods and services across multiple sectors of the economy
The inflation represents the most persistent cost increases in decades
These price hikes force households to make difficult choices about which necessities and experiences they can afford
The situation is creating a growing divide between those who can afford luxury experiences and those who cannot

What's next

New tariffs introduced by the Trump administration are expected to drive prices even higher in the months ahead
Americans shouldn't expect relief from high prices anytime soon, despite inflation retreating from its 9% peak in 2022

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint