As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, families are facing significantly higher costs for cookout essentials, fireworks, and travel. This comes as inflation reaches a new three-year high.
Rising Costs
New economic analysis indicates that prices for common Fourth of July staples have risen notably over the past year. Ground beef prices have increased by 20.3%, ice pops are up 22.3%, and prepared potato salad costs 23% more, according to new analysis from Groundwork Collaborative. Additionally, a 25% tariff has made fireworks more expensive for holiday celebrations.
The American Farm Bureau Federation reported that a classic Independence Day cookout for 10 people will cost $73.82, marking a 4% increase from last year. Rising costs have impacted summer plans for two-thirds of Americans.
Economic Concerns
A CNN poll found that 77% of Americans believe the current administration’s economic policies have increased the cost of living. This poll also showed 70% of those surveyed disapprove of how the economy is being handled. A recent survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York revealed that 43% of Americans report being worse off financially than a year ago.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.