10 Expenses That Barely Existed in the ’80s (But Are Everywhere Now)
These modern costs would’ve seemed bizarre or unnecessary just a few decades ago.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
The 1980s were simpler times when your paycheck stretched a little further, and many of today’s “normal” expenses didn’t even exist. Fast forward to now, and your wallet takes hits from services and fees no one back then could’ve predicted. Here are 10 expenses that were rare—or didn’t exist at all—in the ’80s but are now a regular part of life.
1. Internet and Wi-Fi Bills
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In the ’80s, there was no web to surf, so there were no bills to go with it. Today, you’re likely paying $50–$100 monthly just to stay connected.
2. Smartphone Plans
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Owning a phone meant a landline with maybe a $20 monthly bill. Now, it’s a smartphone plan bundled in data, texts, and app subscriptions.
3. Streaming Subscriptions
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In the ’80s, TV was free with an antenna or included in basic cable. Now, we shell out for multiple services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
4. App Purchases and In-App Spending
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Games used to come in boxes—once you bought it, that was it. Today’s apps are “free” but constantly ask for add-ons, coins, upgrades, or subscriptions.
5. Identity Theft Protection
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This kind of service didn’t even exist when your biggest worry was someone stealing your checkbook. Now, we pay for monthly monitoring, credit freezes, and fraud alerts.
6. Cloud Storage
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You saved everything on floppy disks or physical files—no extra cost required. Today, Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox all come with monthly price tags for extra space.
7. Subscription Software
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You once bought a program and owned it forever. Now, everything from photo editors to spreadsheets requires a monthly or annual subscription.
8. Ride-Share and Delivery App Fees
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Taxis were rare, and food delivery was limited to pizza joints. Now, we casually order Ubers and DoorDash like it’s no big deal—until the fees, tips, and surcharges rack up.
9. Home Security Subscriptions
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Back then, a good lock and maybe a dog did the trick. Today, people pay monthly for smart cameras, doorbell alerts, and cloud video storage.
10. Health and Wellness Apps
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Fitness used to mean jogging in the neighborhood or popping in a VHS workout tape. Now, we subscribe to meditation apps, online trainers, calorie trackers, and digital yoga classes.