The Hidden Costs of Adulthood: 15 Surprisingly Expensive Items You Never Saw Coming

Explore the unexpected expenses of adulthood as social media users share eye-opening experiences. Uncover 15 surprisingly expensive items, from groceries to pets, revealing the hidden costs of adulting.

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#1: The Pricey Plate – Groceries

Medium rare Ribeye steak with herbs on graphite board.
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“My parents split up when I was a kid in the 90s, and I remember going to my dad’s apartment in another city, and him cooking us steak on the grill. I always loved that. Once I moved out I was like “Wait, the steak is how much? Why the hell did Dad keep feeding us this?” Then I realized he was eating poverty meals all week to treat his kids on the weekend.”

It’s a universal truth that food gets more expensive as you grow older. Many users agree that adulting comes with a not-so-fun surprise – the cost of groceries. Fresh fish and meat, once considered luxuries, can make you feel like a king or queen when you finally afford them.

#2: Furnishing Follies

A clean office desk and chair with a table lamp and laptop.
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“When I bought my house I only had a bed in the master bedroom and all my friends kept saying “you make good money just buy furniture, you could have it furnished in a month.” Then they bought houses and now understand why it took me a year to furnish my house.”

One user experienced the struggle of furnishing his house. Adulting isn’t just about making money; it’s also about spending it wisely.

#3: Rug Regret

Low section view of fashionable man on beige rug
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Ever dreamt of a plush rug to tie your room together? This user realized the harsh truth about interior decor – a ‘nice’ rug can cost a jaw-dropping amount of money. Who knew that something meant for your feet could take such a toll on your wallet?

#4: Tire Troubles

Frightened woman screaming while driving car
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“Right? I remember buying new tires for my car for $200 each… I remember that was in 1999… lol. And my car had tiny 12″ rims.”

New tires may not be the most thrilling purchase, but they sure are costly. Another commenter discovered that dropping a grand on these rubber companions can be quite a surprise for your bank account.

#5: Pricey Plumber: Tradesmen Work

Cropped shot of repairman in tool belt holding adjustable wrench
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“The plumber came out and saw my busted up AC condenser outside (the house had some insulation issues, which led to ice damming, which led to shelves of ice falling on and crushing the condenser) and said ‘I can put a whole new furnace and AC for $4000 if you want.'”

Need some plumbing, carpentry, or masonry work done? Brace yourself, because as one user points out, if you have to pay someone to do it for you, it’s going to be cost-prohibitive. Those skilled tradesmen come at a premium.

#6: Cereal Shock

Cornflakes cereal breakfast
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Remember the days when cereal was a breakfast delight that didn’t break the bank? One user can’t believe how a box of cereal now costs a whopping $8! It’s a sugary foam that has become an expensive treat in adulthood.

#7: Sole Suffering

Man in autumn shoes, walking.
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“Flat feet making me pay $300 for a pair of shoes.”

Good shoes are essential, but they can also set you back a bit, especially if you need specialized ones. This user knows the truth – investing in quality footwear is no small feat.

#8: Bust the Budget: Bras

red brassiere on white textile
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“I went through cancer treatment which includes a mastectomy and reconstruction. My old bras didn’t work for my current chest, so I had to replace my entire bra drawer. It cost more than I paid for my surgeries after insurance.”

Bras are a wardrobe staple for many, but they can be surprisingly expensive. This comment highlights the cost of good support, quite literally.

#9: Time is Money

pretty hispanic woman smiling and feeling relaxed, satisfied and carefree, laughing positively and chilling
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One user brings a unique perspective. As a kid, he gave away his free time like it was candy. But now, as an adult, he can’t afford even a minute of it. Time has become a precious commodity in the world of grown-ups.

#10: Pricier Pets

Beagle dog in eyeglasses
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“I waited until I was in my 50s and had raised my kids until I could afford a pet. Like kids, I wasn’t going to be a pet owner until I could provide the care they deserve.”

Pets have stolen many hearts, but this commenter points out that they’ve also become more expensive due to changing expectations and our increased affection for them. Caring for your furry friends can be a budget buster.

#11: Costly Cruisers

JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 02: Symbol of Ferrari Symbol of Ferrari, a car exhibition in Circuito de Jerez on feb 02, 2015 in Jerez de la frontera.
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“Cars, all grown-ups had them, maybe even multiple. I still think it’s insane that some cars are more expensive than a 2-bedroom apartment.”

Some users highlight the sticker shock of car prices. It’s a reminder that being a grown-up often means making adult-sized financial decisions.

#12: Dental Dollars

Dentist working in his office with a patient.
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“Teeth are luxury bones, don’t ya know? Why on earth would regular health insurance cover them? The fact that vision and dental are separate from the rest of your body is absurd.”

Many users have already discovered the truth about dental care – it’s not just about maintaining your pearly whites; it’s about managing your wallet. Dental bills can quickly add up, leaving you with a less-than-dazzling smile.

#13: Glasses: A Clear Expense

Portrait of a pretty school girl in glasses pointing finger away.
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Another commenter faced the reality of eyeglasses. If you have poor eyesight, prescription glasses are a necessity. But they can be an unexpected expense, leaving you with a clearer view of your finances.

#14: Electric Awakening

Row of light bulbs.Idea concept on green background.
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As a kid, many of us assumed that electricity was as free as the air we breathe. One user shares a humorous but relatable story of leaving their bedroom lit up like a Christmas tree 24/7, much to the chagrin of their poor parents. It’s a quirky reminder of the newfound understanding that adulthood often comes with utility bills and a newfound appreciation for energy conservation.

#15: Raising Eyebrows: The Cost of Kids

Tired father with laptop and little kids sitting on sofa around
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“My parents had 5 of us. It amazes me to this day, that my father’s paltry salary at the time had to support it all. How could anyone do that today?”

Many of us have this moment of realization when we become adults, looking back at our parents and wondering, “How on earth did they afford to raise us?” Many users share this sentiment, and it’s a testament to the financial challenges and sacrifices parents make to provide for their children. As we grow older, we gain a newfound appreciation for the financial juggling act our parents performed to give us the best they could.

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Beautiful young female artist drawing on table in studio. Hobby.
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