25 examples of the cost of living in the 20th century show us the harsh reality of today's economy

The world has been on a roller coaster ride for the past few years, with the cost of living skyrocketing and some major cities becoming too expensive to live in due to inflation. The cost of even basic amenities like food, rent and household essentials are getting insanely high. The income with which our parents or grandparents used to lead a luxurious life has now become the bare minimum requirement for this generation. With the COVID-19 pandemic adding to the already distressing reality, this generation of youth is facing a challenging time making ends meet.

This recent economic stature has led people to compare the cost of living during the 1900s. Many on social media are sharing pictures of old restaurant menus, real estate ads, travel ads and grocery costs from the 20th century. We have compiled such noteworthy pictures from the internet, along with a few gathered by Bored Panda and they are a reflection of how the cost of living in the US used to be. Eating out cost people just a few cents and buying properties was almost a cakewalk if one had a decent job. Here are 25 best examples that depict how affordable life used to be in the 1900s and how hard it is now.

1. Drive-in's menu 1950s

2. How would you like an $18 rent?

3. Vintage homes

4. Cost of living 1938

5. 1973 McDonald's

6. 1960's men's fashion

7. 1959 cost of living 

8. Medical bill 1947

9. Whopper for 39 cents

10. 1955 housing ad

11. 1960s Woolworth menu

12. Playskool toys in the 1970s

13. Tacos at just a few cents

14. Most liberal Ford dealer in 1965

15. Steve Aloi-Ford rides

16. Hospital bill for 10 days in 1947

17. KFC - good old times

18. 1960s cocktail menu

19. Vintage grocery prices

20. 1960s color television

21. 1950s restaurant menu

22. Coffee shop menu from 1949

23. Just a $2.95 maternity bill in 1957

24. 1959 McDonald's menu

25. 1989 cost of living