Kentucky Resident Shocked by 75% Rent Hike, 28% Surge in Auto Insurance
Inflation is a reality that many Americans are grappling with, despite official statistics indicating a decline in its rate. Kenneth Turner (@kyinsurance), a Kentucky resident and insurance advisor, recently gained attention on TikTok for shedding light on the significant impact of inflation on his day-to-day life. His story mirrors the challenges encountered by numerous individuals in navigating escalating expenses, particularly in areas such as rent, food, and auto insurance.
In his video, Turner reveals that his rent has surged from $800 to $1400 over the past few years, marking a substantial 75% increase. Residing in Lexington, Kentucky, he finds himself in the midst of a housing market ranked as the third most expensive city for young homebuyers. While he rents his home, fluctuations in home prices significantly influence rental rates.
A study indicates that Lexington experienced a notable 30% uptick in average rental prices between June 2021 and November 2023, leaping from $953 to $1,246. Despite this, the city's rents remain below the national average. As of February 2024, Rent.com reports that the national median monthly rent price stands at $1,964.
"Has anyone noticed that it’s literally becoming impossible to live a normal life because of the inflation that’s going on?" the insurance advisor asks. He expresses dismay over the escalating costs of groceries despite statistical claims of decreased food price inflation.
"I feel like I go in there with $100 and I come out with a gallon of milk and two pieces of toast," he says. The discrepancy between official figures and individuals' lived experiences underscores the severity of the situation. Furthermore, reports indicate the number of food-insecure families with seniors has doubled over the past two decades.
Turner reveals that his car insurance has surged by 28%. According to a recent MarketWatch survey, Kentucky residents bear the brunt of this hike, paying an average of approximately $2,522 per year on car insurance—$514 more than the national average.
Moreover, car insurance costs soared to a 47-year peak in December 2023, escalating by 20.6% compared to the previous year, as reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics inflation data. This significant surge in car insurance rates can be attributed to pandemic-induced inflation levels.
Supply chain disruptions during the pandemic led to increased prices for cars and car parts, a trend that persisted as lockdown measures were lifted and driving resumed.
People were quick to jump into the conversation, with one user commenting, "My rent has gone up just as much. The fridge is empty as we speak. Just can’t afford anything anymore. I don’t even go anywhere other than work."
"I literally pay $2000 for a one-bedroom and basically cry cause I can’t even afford the electricity and I get paid every two weeks so every other week it’s basically always broke," said another user.
"I gotta keep going to work so I can keep the juggling of bills going. I have NO life. It’s all bills," wrote a different user. "Craziness. Wasn’t that long ago people were shocked that Hawaii was paying like $8 for a gallon of milk. Went to the store, and a pack of cheese sticks is $7.85," someone else commented.
For more such content, you can follow Kenneth Turner (@kyinsurance) on TikTok.