Tolls, groceries, stamps and more: 11 things that will cost more in 2021

COVID-19 has definitely increased prices and spending habits in 2020.

As we cocooned at home, distant vacations and even trips to the local cinema were replaced with backyard barbecues and Netflix viewing. We spent record amounts in the supermarket and less in restaurants and bars.

Now that we are saying goodbye to the year, experts suggest that we will continue to pay high prices for some goods and services in 2021.

Here’s a look at everything from groceries to streaming services and cars.

Pennsylvania Turnpike

Pennsylvania Turnpike tolls are increasing again.

Those driving on the toll motorway should expect to pay more in 2021, and those without E-ZPass will pay significantly more. This is the 13th consecutive year for an increase in highway prices.

In July, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission approved a 45% increase for “toll by plate” drivers at toll facilities converted to fully electronic toll in June. There are a handful of toll plazas that were already cashless; these locations will only see a 6% increase for per plate toll drivers.

The commission approved a 6% toll increase for all E-ZPass fares in the system.

The most common toll for a passenger vehicle will drop from $ 1.50 to $ 1.60 for E-ZPass customers and from $ 2.50 to $ 3.90 for those choosing “Toll by Plate,” said the Commission.

The new rates will take effect on January 3.

DirectTV

AT&T is increasing prices for DirecTV first year service customers and U-verse TV service customers. Starting Jan. 17, the majority of DirecTV customers will pay between $ 5 and $ 9 more each month, depending on the plan, according to Consumer Reports.

Comcast

In addition, the nation’s largest cable company is raising prices for cable TV and internet service starting January 1. It also increases additional costs, according to Consumer Reports. While Comcast’s prices vary by market, Consumer Reports says the price of its Choice TV plan will increase by about $ 5 per month, from $ 25 to $ 30.

Medicare

Like most years, Medicare cost adjustments kick in on January 1. The increases in premiums and out-of-pocket expenses for most beneficiaries – most aged 65 and over – are modest this year. Starting in 2021, the standard monthly Part B premium will be $ 148.50, up from $ 144.60 in 2020.

Home renovation projects

Due to the pandemic, supplies of materials such as wood have been cut off, causing prices to skyrocket. This means higher prices for home improvement projects, whether it is a new fence or patio or a remodeling project.

The National Home Builders Association reported that lumber prices had more than doubled, from less than $ 400 in January to more than $ 900 in September. Prices fell in October but remain higher than a year ago.

Houses

A housing shortage coupled with high demand and low mortgage rates has created a booming real estate market. But for those looking to buy, it will continue to cost you more.

The Associated Press reported that prices were up 7.9% in October from 12 months ago, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index on Tuesday.

The Harrisburg market is ranked among the top 10 markets, according to Realtor.com, where prices are expected to rise 6.9% while sales are expected to increase 13.1% from 2019.

This is significantly higher than the national projection of a 5.7% price appreciation and 7% sales growth.

Races

After a year of rising prices for groceries linked to the pandemic, prices are expected to increase only slightly in the new year. The United States Department of Agriculture reports that the prices of food purchased from stores such as grocery stores and supermarkets will likely increase by 1-2%.

coffee

Right now, coffee prices are flat, mainly because demand for coffee shops is dropping due to the pandemic and the increase in the number of people working from home. But eventually, when the virus goes away, coffee drinkers will revert to their old ways, which could be on the rise. However, according to Forbes, weather conditions in key growth areas such as Brazil and Vietnam could have more of an impact on prices in 2021 and increase prices, as it has been too rainy in Vietnam and too dry in the region. southern Brazil.

Used vehicles

Used cars are considered the favorite of slot grips. But while you can still strike a deal, you’ll be paying more for this set of wheels than a year ago. Indeed, the temporary stoppages in the manufacture of new cars at the start of the pandemic prompted buyers to buy lots of used cars. Plus, commuters looking to avoid public transportation wanted an affordable option. The average increase in used car prices is 9.5% or $ 2,193 from 2019, according to iSeeCars.com, a car search engine.

Disney +

Disney + is introducing a lot of new content in the New Year, but it will cost you more. A subscription increases from $ 1 to $ 7.99 per month from March 2021 and by $ 79.99 for an annual subscription.

American postage

Some U.S. postal service prices increase starting Jan. 24. While the cost of a First Class permanent stamp will remain at 55 cents, other changes include:

• The price of an additional ounce of a single coin letter will increase by 5 cents from 15 cents to 20 cents
• Ounce meter mail cost will drop from 50 cents to 51 cents
• Postcard postage will drop from 35 cents to 36 cents
• The $ 1 fee for 1 ounce of one piece flat mail is also unchanged.