Families across the United States are feeling the pinch of rising prices. An analysis by the Get the Facts Data Team estimates that a typical family of four now spends roughly $275 more each month than it did in January 2025.
How the $275 figure was calculated
The team built a sample budget using national spending benchmarks: $1,150 for groceries (U.S. Department of Agriculture Moderate‑Cost Food Plan), $220 for gasoline (Bureau of Labor Statistics household data), $150 for electricity (U.S. Energy Information Administration), $2,350 for childcare (Child Care Aware of America), and $60 for pet food (American Pet Products Association). Each category was adjusted with the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data to reflect price changes since President Trump assumed office in January 2025.
Since then, the CPI for groceries has risen about 3.5%, electricity about 10%, and gasoline nearly 40%. When these changes are applied to the sample budget, the total monthly cost increases by $275.
What the numbers mean for everyday Americans
While the exact impact varies by household, location, and spending habits, the analysis illustrates how higher prices can quickly add up. Families are reporting tighter budgets and are looking for ways to stretch each dollar.
“People are spending, but they’re being very, very careful how they spend. They’re looking to stretch their dollar,” said Mark Mathews, chief economist and executive director of research at the National Retail Federation. He recommends shopping around, using retailer apps and promotions, and even employing artificial‑intelligence tools to compare prices.
Practical tips to offset rising costs
Financial‑advice site NerdWallet suggests several strategies: cancel unused subscriptions, negotiate recurring bills such as phone, internet and insurance, and compare price‑per‑ounce or per‑pound at the grocery store rather than focusing solely on the sticker price.
Political context
The rising cost of living has become a point of contention in the political arena. During his 2024 campaign, President Trump pledged to “drive down prices and make America affordable again.” However, a recent AP‑NORC poll conducted Oct. 8‑12 found that only 25% of U.S. adults approve of his handling of the economy, and 19% approve of his handling of the cost of living.
A separate September poll showed that 65% of adults attribute higher‑than‑usual prices to President Trump’s policies, while 34% point to factors beyond the president’s control.
Looking ahead
With the midterm elections approaching, the cost‑of‑living issue is likely to remain a focal point for voters and candidates alike. The Get the Facts tool remains available for anyone who wants to input their own expenses and see a personalized estimate of how inflation has affected their budget since President Trump took office.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
