Los Angeles residents are digging deeper into their pockets as inflation hits levels not seen since the 1980s. The city made grim history in March when average gas prices soared to $6.08/gallon ⛽ – a reality check that's forcing tough choices at pumps and grocery stores alike.
\"I used to fill my tank for $40. Now it's $75,\" said local driver Marisol Torres, gesturing toward the glowing price signs. At supermarkets, shoppers navigate sticker shock: eggs up 32%, chicken breasts 13% pricier than last year, and milk edging closer to $5/gallon.
Construction worker Javier Mendez summed up the mood: \"Every drive to work feels like a pay cut.\" Some families now combine errands strategically, while others swap car commutes for public transit – when schedules allow.
Economists point to a perfect storm: pandemic supply chains, geopolitical tensions, and consumer demand colliding. While some relief might come later this year, Angelenos are rewriting their budgets in real time. As student Emma Chen put it: \"My avocado toast days? Basically ancient history.\" 🥑✂️
