A Cuban woman in the United States sparked multiple reactions after sharing on TikTok her latest purchase at Costco, where she spent $757 to stock up her home for four people. The video, posted by the creator known as @mrs_wong1 (Gaby), combines humor and surprise as she showcases her full cart and reflects on the high cost of living in the country.
“I'm still feeling the pinch,” she remarks at the beginning of the video, where she explains that although she usually shops at Sam's Club because it is closer to her, she decided to take advantage of being in the area to make a purchase at Costco. Despite the high prices, Gaby highlighted that the snacks and organic products available in that store are superior, especially in terms of quality and variety. She also mentioned her obsession with smoked salmon and her preference for buying pre-cut pineapple, due to some bad experiences with whole fruits.
When revealing the final purchase amount, the Cuban woman explained that she included some non-food items, such as a toy for her daughters, yet the total close to 800 dollars surprised many of her followers.
The comments on the video reflected both empathy and surprise. Some users agreed that the prices are high and reported spending similar amounts. Others shared strategies for making their purchases go further, such as dividing meat into small portions and freezing it. There were also those who expressed interest in the products mentioned, like the mango gummies, and others who admired the creator's positive attitude.
The case is reminiscent of other Cuban individuals who have also documented on social media the impact of the cost of living. A young woman who recently arrived in the U.S. went viral after spending 65 dollars on just a few items and jokingly claimed that Costco “is for millionaires.”
It wasn't the only one that sparked controversy. The TikToker Rosmy generated a heated debate by revealing that she spent 339.15 dollars on personal care products and a few meals, excluding meat, while indignantly asking, "Where are we headed?"
The conversation about prices has persisted over time. Another user shared her weekly purchase of 392 dollars, listing each item while organizing the bags in the trunk of her car. More recently, the same Rosmy confessed to exceeding her budget of 300 dollars and ended up spending over 600 after visiting Costco, Aldi, and a third store.
The testimonies published by these women reflect a shared concern among many immigrant families: the constant rise in prices, even in wholesale chains traditionally associated with savings. Although some highlight the quality of the products or how durable certain purchases can be, the overall cost often becomes a source of distress and conversation on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of Living for Cubans in the United States
Why are prices at Costco considered high for some Cubans in the U.S.?
Prices at Costco are considered high by some Cubans in the U.S. because, although the store offers high-quality products in large quantities, the overall cost of purchases can be surprising to those managing tight budgets. The perception of high cost is especially significant for immigrants who compare prices to the incomes earned in their initial jobs in the country.
How does inflation affect Cubans living in the U.S.?
Inflation affects Cubans in the U.S. by limiting their purchasing power and forcing them to adjust their budgets to cover basic needs. The rise in prices for food and essential products has a significant impact on their daily economy, prompting many to adopt savings strategies, such as shopping at wholesale stores or dividing purchases into smaller portions.
What more affordable alternatives to Costco are available for Cubans in the United States?
More affordable alternatives to Costco include stores like Aldi and Sam's Club. These stores are considered more economical options due to their competitive prices and the quality of the products offered, making them an appealing choice for Cubans looking to make the most of their budget.
What strategies do Cubans use to make their purchases in the United States last longer?
To make their purchases go further, many Cubans in the U.S. divide products into smaller portions and freeze them, shop at wholesale stores to take advantage of bulk prices, and look for deals and discounts. These strategies enable them to optimize their spending and manage resources better in a context of high prices.
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