15 Things You Could Buy for Under $1 in the ’80s
A nostalgic look at everyday items that were surprisingly affordable in the 1980s.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
The ’80s were a time when a single dollar went a long way. From arcade games to fast food treats, there were plenty of things you could get for under a buck. Whether it was a comic book, a soda, or even a trip to the movies, small joys were easy to afford. Here is a fun throwback to 15 things you could buy for less than a dollar in the 1980s.
1. Arcade Games
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A quarter was all you needed to enjoy a round of Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, or Space Invaders. Arcade culture thrived on these affordable thrills, keeping kids and teens entertained for hours. You could even stretch a dollar to four or five plays!
2. McDonald’s Cheeseburger
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Fast food was shockingly cheap in the ’80s. A McDonald’s cheeseburger cost around 50 cents, making it an easy and delicious snack on the go. For a few cents more, you could have a full meal with fries and a drink!
3. Comic Books
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Superhero fans could grab a comic book for under a dollar and dive into the adventures of Spider-Man, Batman, or the X-Men. This was the golden age of comics, and each issue was a treasure trove of action and imagination.
4. Movie Tickets (Matinee Shows)
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Matinee showings at local theaters often cost less than a dollar. Kids and families could catch blockbusters like E.T. or Back to the Future without breaking the bank. Popcorn might have cost extra, but the ticket was a steal!
5. Gas (Per Gallon)
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Believe it or not, gas was under a dollar per gallon for much of the ’80s. Road trips and joyrides were incredibly affordable, making weekend drives a common pastime. Those days of cheap fuel seem like a dream now!
6. Soda Cans
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Whether it was a can of Coke, Pepsi, or Tab, soft drinks were usually under 50 cents. Vending machines took your quarters, delivering an ice-cold refreshment perfect for hot summer days.
7. Candy Bars
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A sweet tooth was easily satisfied for less than a dollar. Candy bars like Snickers, Milky Way, and Reese’s were budget-friendly treats found at every corner store.
8. Pack of Baseball Cards
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Collecting baseball cards was a favorite pastime, and a pack cost less than a dollar. The thrill of finding a rookie card or a favorite player made each purchase exciting.
9. Bubblegum Packs
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Hubba Bubba, Big League Chew, and Bazooka gum were cheap and full of flavor. A dollar could get you multiple packs to share—or keep all for yourself.
10. Postage Stamps
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In the early ’80s, mailing a letter cost just 20 cents, meaning five stamps were easily within a dollar’s reach. Sending postcards and letters was a regular part of communication before email took over.
11. Hot Dog at a Street Cart
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A dollar could get you a classic hot dog from a street cart, complete with all the toppings. Whether it was mustard, ketchup, or relish, these quick bites were a favorite for city dwellers on the go. Affordable and tasty, they were the perfect budget-friendly snack.
12. Ice Cream Cone from McDonald’s
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McDonald’s soft-serve cones were a steal at under a dollar, making them an easy way to cool off on a hot day. The creamy vanilla flavor was a favorite among kids and adults alike. It was the perfect sweet treat without spending much.
13. Pack of Firecrackers
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Firecrackers were a staple of celebrations, and you could buy a small pack for under a dollar. Whether it was for the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve, these tiny explosives added excitement to any event. They may have been small, but they delivered big fun.
14. A Song on a Jukebox
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Dropping a quarter into a jukebox let you pick your favorite song and fill the room with music. Whether it was a rock anthem, a pop hit, or a country classic, jukeboxes kept diners and arcades lively. A dollar could get you multiple plays, setting the perfect vibe for the moment.
15. Temporary Tattoos from a Vending Machine
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Temporary tattoos were a fun, affordable way for kids to express themselves. With just a coin, you could get a cool design that lasted a few days before washing off. They were a favorite prize from vending machines at malls and grocery stores.