‘Home Alone’ Movie Highlights Rising Cost of Living

The cost of living has come a long way according to the movie “Home Alone.” Everyone remembers the charming moment from the iconic 1990 film when the young protagonist, Kevin McCallister, managed to carry out a full-fledged shopping spree — all for less than $20. Fast forward to the present day, and that same shopping list would warrant a significantly heavier piggy bank. This is the cost-of-living reality that’s not lost on Americans.

Among his purchases, McCallister, portrayed by Macaulay Culkin, snagged a half gallon of milk and orange juice, bread, a TV dinner, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, cling wrap, a pack of army men, and toilet paper. In 1990, the total cost came to $19.83.

Fast forward to last year, and the cost of these same items soared to $44.40. In 2023, the price tag for the identical list has inflated further, amounting to a staggering $72.28.

Even though the inflation rate has slightly receded from its peak, it continues to squeeze the budgets of everyday Americans and pose hurdles for small business owners. According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in October, the price of everyday goods like gasoline, groceries, and rent remained unchanged from the previous month. Nonetheless, prices have still ascended 3.2% compared to the same period the previous year. Furthermore, products such as cake mix have seen a nearly 28% increase in cost — a testament to the current inflationary pressures businesses are grappling with.

As the 2024 elections approach, inflation and economic uncertainties continue to be at the forefront of voters’ minds. Despite the data indicating a slight cooling, a majority of voters are still worried about higher prices and inflation’s overall impact. FOX News also conducted a poll that revealed how although 29% optimistically believe that the worst of the economic situation has passed (a slight improvement from 25% in 2022), 67% of respondents don’t see any indications of the economy turning a corner. This sentiment is shared by the majority of Republicans (84%) and independents (77%).