3 Key Signs That You’re Losing Money to ‘Lifestyle Inflation’ — and How To Get Out of It

3 Key Signs That You’re Losing Money to ‘Lifestyle Inflation’ — and How To Get Out of It

Laura Bogart    Mon, September 15, 2025 GOBankingRates

“Treat yourself.” This iconic line from “Parks and Recreation” has become a cultural mantra and, let’s face it, maybe even a personal motto at times. After all, you’ve just landed a raise. Not only are you bringing home a bigger paycheck, but you’re also working harder than ever to earn it. You’ve got every reason to, well, treat yourself.

But after a few splurges — maybe it’s bottomless brunches, a new bag, or just a couple of nights of takeout — you’re not feeling as flush as you expected. In fact, your bank account might still look a little too familiar.

If your expenses have quickly risen to match your new income, you may be experiencing lifestyle inflation. Whether it’s driven by your own aspirations or a desire to keep up with friends or coworkers, lifestyle inflation can leave you feeling just as broke as before, if not more so.

Allison Baggerly understands your pain.

As a budgeting expert, author, podcaster, and founder of Inspired Budget, Baggerly has helped thousands of people bust out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. She spoke to GOBankingRates as part of our Top 100 Money Experts series to share how to recognize lifestyle inflation and reclaim control of your money — without completely giving up the fun stuff.

Key Signs You’re Slipping Into Lifestyle Inflation

Baggerly says lifestyle inflation can sneak up fast. Here are some common red flags:

• Upgrades become routine. Maybe you trade in your car early, replace furniture that’s still in great shape, or jump on every “limited-time” sale.

• Dining out more than before. Ordering DoorDash or grabbing brunch several times a week starts to feel normal instead of special.

• Savings goals stall. Despite higher income, contributions to retirement, debt payments or an emergency fund don’t budge.

Spotting these patterns is the first step to stopping them.

Understanding Lifestyle Inflation Helps You Avoid It

“It’s easy to fall into because it feels like you’re just doing what you’re ‘supposed’ to do,” Baggerly said. “You’re working hard and earning more, so you deserve the nicer couch or the spontaneous weekend trip, right? The problem is that those small upgrades pile up fast, and suddenly that raise is gone. You’re making more, but you still feel broke. That’s lifestyle inflation in action.”

This could look like ordering DoorDash three nights in a row instead of cooking, upgrading your car before it’s really necessary, or jumping on a sale ‘just because.’ Meanwhile, financial goals like paying down debt, saving for retirement, or building an emergency fund get left behind.

But here’s the good news: Being able to spot the pattern is the first step to changing it.

Planning for a Win Helps You Avoid Splurges

TO READ MORE:   https://finance.yahoo.com/news/3-key-signs-losing-money-185646127.html