Let's look at what tariffs hurt the poor the most.
So, I asked AI what tariffs the most.
Low‑income households spend a far larger share of their income on basics. When tariffs raise prices, they have no room to substitute or absorb the increase.
Clothing
- Clothing prices projected to rise 17% under the 2025 tariff package.
- Clothing is one of the most price‑sensitive categories for low‑income families.
Fresh Produce & Groceries
- Fresh produce expected to rise 4% due to tariffs.
- Food is the single largest budget share for the bottom quintile.
Appliances
- Appliance prices already up about 2% in mid‑2025 under tariff pressure.
- Here's a fix.
- Practical adjustments:
- Buy clothing secondhand (thrift, consignment, online resale).
- Substitute frozen or canned produce when fresh spikes.
- Repair appliances instead of replacing them.
- Nuff said.