The cost of food and gas in California has increased by 3.2% from the year prior, according to an August news release from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The price of goods and gas has increased within the last year and prices continue to keep rising, and to combat the tariffs placed on imported products, some companies have absorbed the cost of the tariffs, but also raised the prices of their goods, according to the Associated Press.
In nine interviews at Cosumnes River College, students and staff shared similar reactions to how inflation has affected them.
Noel Prudente, a 29-year-old international relations major and veteran, said he is fortunate to have his benefits, but understands that inflation is a real thing affecting other students.
“People constantly ask for resources when they come up here, mistaking us for a welcome center or an information center,” Prudente said. “They ask if there's places I can get food or if there's a place that can help me, or if they’re hiring.”
Bethany Fisher-Lauth, a 21-year-old pre-nursing student, said she and her family buy less groceries than they used to.
“I used to go to the farmer's market and then I can't afford that anymore,” Fisher-Lauth said. “So I pretty much just tend to buy simple, cheap foods, like rice and beans.”
Ryana Fisher, a faculty coordinator for tutoring services, said she has a family of six and likes to bargain shop.
“What I find myself doing is really bargain shopping, like what's on sale,” Fisher said. “I feel like I'm always looking at what's on sale versus just grabbing whatever.”
The average price for gas in the Sacramento metropolitan area is $4.46 per gallon in November, a 27-cent rise from the beginning of the year, according to fuel insights from GasBuddy, a platform that helps drivers find the cheapest gas in their area.
Faculty researcher Katy Wilson said the rise in gas prices has affected her driving habits.
“I do feel like I choose not to drive long distances when I can avoid it,” Wilson said.
Omar Ortiz, a 30-year-old business management major, said he drives until he can find the cheapest gas.
“It makes me drive around town looking for the lowest gas prices,” Ortiz said. “Gas is expensive. I saw it for $5 at some places. It’s the highest it’s probably been in California in years.”