Canadians are getting real about the things they no longer buy because they're too expensive

With the cost of living and product price tags feeling more expensive than ever, it's no surprise that many Canadians are leaving certain things on supermarket shelves.

When Narcity asked readers on Facebook what has become too expensive to buy in Canada, the response was overwhelming, with almost 700 responses in just a few days.

From groceries to entertainment to vacations, it's clear that Canadians are feeling the squeeze, and it's a hot topic that's resonating across the country.

Here's a closer look at what Canadians say they're no longer spending their money on because it's simply become too expensive.

Groceries

Unsurprisingly, groceries were among the most-mentioned products that have become too expensive in Canada, with many commenters describing food as unaffordable in 2024.

One of the most common responses to our question was steak. Many shoppers are no longer splurging on this once-favourite item due to its high cost.

It's not just steak; other grocery items are also being left behind. Avocados, fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil, seafood, eggs, butter and cheese were frequently mentioned as items that have become too pricey to buy regularly.

The cost of food is so high that it's impacting what people cook and even turning some people into vegetarians.

"I stopped trying new recipes," shared one commenter, while another added, "Meat is so expensive that we often do pasta because it's cheap.

A third person said, "I'm basically vegetarian now because meat costs too much."

Dining out and entertainment

Going out to eat or attending events is another area where Canadians are cutting back.

Many shared that subscription services, NHL games, and even simple dinners out are no longer in the budget, while others said that their previous pastime of heading out to the movies is no longer viable.

"Movies are expensive to go to, and their concession stands are ridiculously priced," one commenter said.

Another added, "Subscriptions to anything really. Our dollar sucks so mostly anything that gets converted from an original American price is brutal. Just recently cancelled my PS Plus because having to pay a separate subscription for internet that I already PAY for is ridiculous and capitalism at its finest."

Another person highlighted the high cost of a family outing: "We took our kids to the zoo and spent almost $150 just to get in. That's kind of ridiculous."

Concert tickets were a central pain point among the commenters too, with many saying they can no longer afford to spend money to see their favourite artists.

"CONCERT TICKETS. Why is the exact same ticket $400 cheaper across the line?" one person asked, while another simply said, "Concert tickets for sure."

However, someone else added, "The one thing that has become ridiculously expensive that I won't stop justifying is concert tickets. That's one of my favourite things in life."

Hundreds of Canadians also said they no longer eat out or get takeaway coffee, and even the price of fast food seems too expensive to splash out on.

"Eating out has become more expensive because of the ridiculous tipping culture as well," one person responded.

Vacations and trips

Vacations are also being scaled back. Many said they no longer stay at hotels and have switched to day trips to save money.

"Vacations are mostly day trips, and even those are expensive," one person said.

Others mentioned that the cost of activities like skiing has become excessive. "Ski pass in any ski resort... ridiculous!!!" wrote another, pointing out how even local getaways are no longer affordable.

Somebody else added, "Travelling inside the country. Hotel prices in Canada are completely outrageous."

Everyday expenses

Even owning a pet or maintaining a car has become a financial burden.

"Owning a dog is becoming a luxury,"" one person commented, explaining how even small pleasures now feel like splurges.

Many others said they have either stopped driving altogether or are now trying to walk as much as possible to avoid forking out for expensive gas and car maintenance.

Unsurprisingly, Canadians also slammed the cost of rent, bills, and house prices in the comments section, with many agreeing that the cost of renting, buying, or owning a home is increasingly unaffordable.

Overall, it seems Canadians are being forced to make tough choices, cutting back not only on luxuries but also on essentials and experiences that were once part of daily life.

One person summed the whole feeling up by simply saying, "LIFE is too expensive right now."

We feel you, buddy!

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AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of Narcity's Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.