32 Hilarious Inflation Memes—Because Laughter Is Free!
Updated: Jan. 31, 2024
Take your mind off the horror of skyrocketing prices by laughing at a funny inflation meme or two
These inflation memes are totally free
Did you recently experience a jump scare at the supermarket when checking the (way too high) price of eggs, bread and butter? Does the cost of airfare make you shudder? Or does your grandmother, like mine, often remark that she remembers when a loaf of bread cost a dime? Take a moment to take your mind off inflation by laughing at a hilariously relatable inflation meme or two. (You know what? They’re free, so go ahead and binge the whole bunch.)
Because knowing how to save money doesn’t always help when prices keep rising and rising, we’ve rounded up the best memes about ballooning costs. Sure, some of these memes have a dark sense of humor. But hey, if we don’t laugh, we’ll cry. So get ready to giggle with dozens of the best inflation memes around.
Get Reader’s Digest’s Read Up newsletter for more humor, cleaning, travel, tech and fun facts all week long.
When I was your age …
Buying a first home isn’t what it used to be—and Mom and Dad just don’t understand. If you’re tired of laughing at the comically small houses selling for big bucks, try laughing at these funny mom memes and funny dad memes.
Inflate your mattress, not the economy
Inflation is why you can comfortably sleep on an air mattress—and inflation is why you’re sleeping on an air mattress instead of in a bed. (Psst! If that gave you a chuckle, you’re going to want to check out these summer memes too.)
A night out ain’t cheap
At least you had fun. Know someone who just reached an important milestone? Send them one of these congratulations memes to show your support while making them laugh.
Expensive thoughts
It seems like it costs money just to think nowadays. Here’s something that won’t cost you even a penny: wholesome memes that are sure to make you smile.
Fancy date
No one’s happy about high gas prices! But crack one of these funny Valentine’s Day jokes and you’re sure to get a smile from your partner (yes, even if date night happens at the Gas-N-Sip).
Pop!
When that balloon bursts, let’s hope it rains hundred-dollar bills like a piñata. If you like this inflation meme, check out our funny political jokes that’ll make everyone laugh.
Back home
Hey, a third of all college grads in the United States move back home, so there’s no shame! Even adults well into their careers need the TLC of Mom and Dad at times. While you’re living with the parents, get in the still-in-school spirit with some hilarious back-to-school memes.
Supply and demand
When it comes to supply and demand, we’d prefer an equal partnership. If you like jokes about the economy, like the one in this inflation meme, chances are, you’ll enjoy these accounting jokes too.
Runs on water
If there’s one thing you know about humans it’s that we’re going to grumble about the high price of gas. Want some good news? Here are some things that actually cost less this year.
Super (expensive) market
A dollar-bill salad may not sound very appetizing, but it might be cheaper than the $17 lettuce mix you’ll get at the store. Have a hankering for something a little more edible? Learn how to save money on groceries with these supermarket tricks.
More-than-a-dollar store
What can you get with $1 anymore? Not much, even at places like The Dollar Store and Dollar Tree. Yet dollar stores still offer deals compared with other shops—here are our favorite things to buy from the Dollar Store.
The value of a tooth
With teeth going for $5, $6—or even more—the Tooth Fairy is really feeling the pain of inflation.
Playing catch-up
They say slow and steady wins the race, but I’m starting to think the race is rigged. Want to know if your money-saving tricks actually work? Read money-saving experts’ words of wisdom when it comes to financial myth busting.
Hungry, hungry piggy
Considering how much less you can save when inflation is high, it makes cents—er, sense—that your piggy bank is feeling a little light.
Disappointing penny
These days, pennies are worth so little that most people don’t bother to pick them up off the ground. If this inflation meme made you chuckle, you’ll love these short jokes that are easy to remember.
Painful payday
They say you should give more than you take, but my bank account just keeps giving and giving and giving …
Sand dollars and cents
If my bank account balance is declining and inflation is rising, can I start paying in sand dollars? Speaking of finances, for some truly tricky math, test your smarts with these math puzzles.
This is fine
Denial is one way to deal with crushing inflation. Another way? Learning about the household bills you didn’t know you could negotiate.
No funds
Is anyone else’s wallet feeling a little, uh, lightweight?
Practice makes perfect
It’s just a game, but it’s a game that prepared me for my (lack of) finances during inflation. Love this inflation meme? You’ll want to browse our work memes too.
A dollar’s worth
Everyone, give a warm welcome to the new $1 bill—the $100 bill.
More jobs
Remember when most people used to work just one job? Here’s what to say in an interview to land a job that’ll help you earn more (and ditch the side hustles).
Tough decision
A vacation? In this economy?
Shrinkflation
If it’s not inflation jacking up prices, it’s shrinkflation leaving you with less food—at the same price.
An expensive night out
On second thought, how about we order a pizza and binge Netflix for free?
Jacked-up prices
No matter your age, you probably remember the good old days when basic necessities didn’t cost an arm and a leg. If you’re feeling the squeeze, check out these buy now, pay later apps that let you pay in smaller installments.
Becoming a sellout
Not everyone can love what they do, but everyone needs to eat. We won’t blame you for picking a job that promises a higher salary.
I can’t look
When things are getting more expensive at every turn, it’s tempting to avoid any and all financial news.
Too good to be true
Just when you’re finally making more money … it’s not enough to account for price hikes.
Buy happiness
Whoever said money can’t buy happiness never saw the current state of our economy. Besides, new research says money can buy happiness. In which case: We’ll take some more happiness, please.
This year, I’m thankful for Stouffer’s
Our wallets are really going to feel the pain of inflation during the holidays this year!
Marry rich
You don’t have to put a ring on it to live comfortably—even if you’re not in a high-paying career. Learn some tricks to saving more money with these secrets from people who retire early.
Originally Published: September 27, 2023
