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15 Everyday Products That May Get More Expensive Under New Tariffs
By Jake Beardslee · August 13, 2025
15 Everyday Products That May Get More Expensive Under New Tariffs
With tariffs targeting goods from a range of countries, prices on everyday purchases could soon rise. These aren’t luxury indulgences — they’re items many people rely on regularly, from vehicles to basic household staples. Even small tariff percentages can add hundreds of dollars to the final price by the time products reach store shelves. Here’s a closer look at 15 categories that may be hit hardest. Nathan Dumlao / Unsplash
1. Cars and Trucks
Automobiles are among the biggest potential targets for tariffs, and the impact could be immediate. Import duties on vehicles assembled overseas can add thousands of dollars to the sticker price, pushing even modest models into premium territory. This wouldn’t just affect luxury imports — budget-friendly cars from Japan, South Korea, and Europe could also climb in cost. Domestic automakers may follow suit, raising prices if competition from cheaper imports disappears. For buyers, that could mean delaying a purchase or turning to the used market. Antoni Shkraba Studio / Pexels
2. Coffee Beans
Much of the coffee sold in the U.S. comes from countries that could be affected by new tariffs. Wholesale price increases would likely trickle down to grocery store shelves and coffee shops alike. Even a modest uptick in per-pound prices can significantly raise the cost of a daily cup for regular drinkers. Specialty blends and organic roasts, which already carry a premium, could see some of the steepest increases. This might push more consumers toward bulk purchases or cheaper instant options. Anastasiia Chepinska / Unsplash
3. Clothing and Footwear
The apparel industry depends heavily on imports, from everyday basics to high-end fashion. Tariffs on textiles or finished garments could raise costs across the board. Footwear, especially athletic and casual shoes from Asia, could see noticeable price jumps. Brands may attempt to absorb some of the increase, but most of the cost would still pass to consumers. Bargain hunters could feel the pinch, as even discount retailers rely on foreign supply chains. Clark Street Mercantile / Unsplash
4. Smartphones
Modern smartphones are built from components sourced all over the world, many of which are assembled in China. Tariffs on these devices could add $50 to $150 or more to retail prices. For flagship models, this might not deter committed buyers, but budget and mid-range phones could become less accessible. Even refurbished units could see a price lift as demand shifts. That could keep older models in use for longer, slowing upgrade cycles. Amanz / Unsplash
5. Laptops and Tablets
Like smartphones, most laptops and tablets are assembled overseas. Tariffs would increase production costs and, in turn, consumer prices. Students and remote workers might be particularly impacted, as affordable models become harder to find. Retailers could cut back on promotions and discounts to offset the added expense. This could also drive a stronger secondary market for used electronics. Francois Hoang / Unsplash
6. Household Appliances
From refrigerators to washing machines, many large appliances are imported or rely on imported parts. Tariffs could make replacing or upgrading these items far more expensive. Even small kitchen appliances like blenders and coffee makers could see price increases. Extended warranties and repair services might become more attractive as people try to stretch the lifespan of existing appliances. Retailers might also shift toward promoting domestic brands where possible. PlanetCare / Unsplash
7. Bicycles and E-Bikes
Most bicycles sold in the U.S., including many e-bikes, are manufactured abroad. Tariffs could raise entry-level bike prices by hundreds of dollars and premium models by even more. This could slow adoption of e-bikes, which have been growing in popularity for commuting and recreation. Bike shops might face reduced sales volume and increased difficulty keeping prices competitive. Some brands could explore partial assembly in the U.S. to avoid higher duties. KBO Bike / Unsplash
8. Kitchen Cookware
Pots, pans, and bakeware often come from overseas factories. Tariffs would directly impact the price of these products, particularly stainless steel and cast iron options. Specialty cookware, like nonstick pans with imported coatings, might see the largest jumps. For home cooks, upgrading or replacing worn-out pieces could become a significant expense. This could lead to a boom in secondhand kitchenware sales. Dane Deaner / Unsplash
9. Furniture
Large portions of the U.S. furniture market rely on imports, especially from Asia. Tariffs could raise prices on everything from dining tables to upholstered chairs. Bulky items that are already costly to ship would be hit hardest, as freight costs compound the tariff increases. Consumers might opt for more budget-friendly flat-pack furniture or secondhand purchases. Retailers could also face longer lead times if they switch to domestic suppliers. Toa Heftiba / Unsplash
10. Sporting Goods
Tariffs could affect a wide range of sporting goods, from tennis rackets to golf clubs. Brands that manufacture abroad would see higher costs, which could push recreational gear out of reach for some buyers. Seasonal sports equipment, like skis or snowboards, might become noticeably more expensive. Rental businesses could also pass along higher costs to customers. This could result in fewer casual participants taking up new sports. Will Porada / Unsplash
11. Lighting Fixtures
Many decorative and functional lighting products are imported. Tariffs could significantly raise costs for both homeowners and contractors working on renovations. This includes everything from simple ceiling lights to elaborate chandeliers. Higher prices might push consumers toward basic or secondhand options. The change could also slow renovation timelines for budget-conscious projects. Etienne Girardet / Unsplash
12. Single-Use Coffee Pods
While coffee beans themselves may be affected, single-use pods face a double hit: imported coffee and imported packaging materials. This could sharply raise the cost per cup for users of pod-based machines. Some households may switch to reusable filters to avoid the extra expense. Brands might respond by promoting bulk sales or loyalty programs to retain customers. Specialty or flavored pods could see the steepest increases. Jisu Han / Unsplash
13. Toys
The toy industry is heavily reliant on overseas manufacturing, particularly in China. Tariffs could raise the price of everything from puzzles to electronic learning devices. Parents might cut back during holidays and birthdays, focusing on fewer but higher-quality purchases. Retailers could see slower turnover of new inventory as prices rise. This could also open the door for more domestic toy startups targeting eco-conscious buyers. Jerry Wang / Unsplash
14. Tools and Hardware
Many power tools and hand tools are imported or use imported components. Tariffs could drive up costs for both DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople. Higher prices might cause delays in home improvement projects or force buyers toward lower-quality alternatives. Smaller retailers could struggle to compete with big-box stores that can negotiate better supplier terms. In some cases, repair and rental services could see increased demand. Benjamin Lehman / Unsplash
15. Eyewear
Glasses frames, sunglasses, and even some prescription lenses are often imported. Tariffs could raise prices for both fashion and medical eyewear. This would particularly affect uninsured or underinsured buyers who already face high costs for vision care. Consumers might turn to online retailers or keep old frames longer. The changes could also prompt more interest in domestically made eyewear. Bud Helisson / Unsplash