If you needed a fresh reminder of how much prices have soared recently, Home Alone is here to illustrate that point.
As Christmas approaches, audiences are once again turning to the beloved 1990 classic for a festive viewing.
This film, released 35 years ago, features a young Macaulay Culkin portraying Kevin McCallister, an eight-year-old left alone by mistake who fends off a burglary using everyday items and a bit of ingenuity.
While most remember Home Alone for Kevin’s elaborate traps for the burglars Harry and Marv (played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern), there’s a more subtle scene that’s been gaining attention over the years—and it’s not about physical antics.
It’s the scene where Kevin goes to the supermarket.
Early in the movie, Kevin ventures out to get groceries, converses with the cashier with the poise of an adult, uses a coupon, and leaves feeling triumphant. At the time of the film’s release, it was a fun illustration of his newfound independence. Rewatching it now offers a different perspective.
Kevin’s shopping list includes pretty standard items: a TV dinner, a loaf of bread, frozen mac and cheese, cling film, half a gallon of milk, half a gallon of orange juice, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, and a small pack of toy soldiers. Not a large haul—just essentials with a minor indulgence.
With a $1 coupon, Kevin’s total came to $19.83, which, when adjusted for inflation, equates to $36.94 in 2025.
According to USA Today’s calculations, purchasing the same items today would cost $52.95 before tax, representing a staggering 167 percent rise over the past 35 years.
Despite this, TikToker Geoffrey Lyons found an even higher total when he priced out the same goods at a grocery store in 2023.
As he went through the list, he stated: “What does that come down to? The grand total of $63.73. Add on tax – $5.25 – and put it together, you get $68.99.”
After subtracting Kevin’s dollar coupon, the cost of the same groceries still comes to nearly $68, which is about three and a half times what Kevin paid in the film.
So, Mr. Lyons, if you’re reading this, we need you to revisit that same supermarket from two years ago and update us on the current prices!