Guess the Price
How well do you know inflation? Guess what everyday items cost in the past. Spoiler: everything was cheaper and it's depressing.
Can You Guess Historical Prices?
Gas, milk, eggs, movie tickets, Big Macs, new cars, and homes — across 5 decades. You probably think you know. You probably don't.
The Inflation Reality Check
If you kept $10,000 under your mattress in 1975, it would have the purchasing power of about $1,800 today. That is not a typo. Inflation is the silent wealth destroyer.
This is why investing matters. The S&P 500 has returned roughly 10% annually since 1975 (about 7% after inflation). That $10,000 invested in an index fund would be worth over $1.5 million today.
The best defense against inflation? Don't keep your money in cash. Invest it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Guess the Price inflation game work?▼
You are shown an everyday item and a year (e.g., 'A gallon of gas in 1975'). You pick the correct historical price from 4 multiple-choice options. Play 15 rounds spanning 5 decades from the 1970s to 2010s.
Are the prices in the game accurate?▼
Yes. All prices come from Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI data, USDA agricultural reports, AAA fuel price histories, and other verified historical sources. Prices reflect national averages for the given year.
What decades does the inflation game cover?▼
The game covers 5 decades: 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s. Items include gas, milk, eggs, movie tickets, Big Macs, bread, new cars, and new homes.
What is inflation and why does it matter?▼
Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises over time, reducing purchasing power. Understanding historical inflation helps you make better financial decisions about saving, investing, and retirement planning.
How much has the average price of everyday items increased since the 1970s?▼
Most everyday items have increased 5-10x since the 1970s. A gallon of gas went from $0.57 in 1975 to about $3.50 today. A movie ticket went from $2.05 to $11+. A new car went from $4,950 to $48,000+.
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