Craig N., an astronautical engineer and California resident, reported that his grocery costs have doubled in just one month following his latest shopping trip. This financial strain has prevented him from purchasing all of his usual items. He shared this information in a Threads post on February 9.
"I usually spend around $150 amonth just for myself," said N. "But this time, I had to stop at $300."
According to NewsBreak, food prices in California are projected to rise by 1.9% in 2025, with grocery prices increasing by 0.8% and restaurant meal costs rising by 3.5%. Factors such as labor costs, supply chain disruptions, and extreme weather conditions are expected to continue driving food inflation, making essentials more expensive. Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, which already have high living costs, are anticipated to experience the greatest financial strain from these price increases.
NewsWeek reports that California’s Proposition 12 is contributing to higher food costs nationwide by imposing strict regulations on animal farming. Compliance with the law has compelled farmers across the U.S. to adopt costly new practices, thereby increasing production expenses and ultimately raising prices for consumers. The Washington Policy Center estimates that pork farmers alone face $3.5 million in added costs.
Not only have food prices increased, but gas prices in California also rose by 13 cents in early February 2025, reaching $4.392 per gallon—the highest in the nation. This increase outpaced the national average rise of 4 cents, with the West Coast seeing a 10-cent jump to $4.031 per gallon. According to FleetOwner, factors such as higher state fuel taxes, environmental regulations, and supply chain issues continue to drive California's gas prices above the national average.
According to his Threads account, Craig is a science enthusiast from San Francisco who works as an astronautical engineer and is a part-time astrophysics major and aviation enthusiast with a passion for flying and an appreciation for all things science.