Avocado toast—the creamy green bougie brunch icon—is as Instagrammable as it is tasty. But could this millennial favorite be the culprit behind their financial woes? Is this beloved toast topping really the reason why so many 20 and 30-somethings are struggling to buy homes, start families, or even just afford a decent pair of shoes?
What does avocado toast really cost?
Let’s look at the cost. The average price of an avocado in the U.S. hovers around $1.50. A standard slice of avocado toast uses about half an avocado, so that’s 75 cents right there. Add a slice of artisan bread ($1, because that stuff isn’t cheap!), a sprinkle of salt (usually not much cost unless you’re into Himalayan pink salt), and a dash of lemon juice (that’s just pennies), and you’re looking at about $2 per slice. If and this is a big if—the millennial is making it at home. Having avocado toast out, at brunch, is an important social splurge, but should be an infrequent treat. (Avocado toast at a trendy brunch spot can range from $8 – $14, so that’s definitely not a sound everyday habit!)
Let’s say our example millennial is sensible and makes their own avocado toast at home every single day. That’s $14 a week, or roughly $728 a year. That’s right, for the cost of a one-way plane ticket to Europe, our friend can enjoy a year’s worth of mashed avocado on toast. Outrageous? Maybe a little. (Especially to the Boomers.) Financially crippling? Probably not.
What’s really crushing millennial budgets?
Let’s get real. If millennials are blowing their budgets on anything, it’s no doubt the ever-increasing cost of living, student loan debt, and the occasional splurge on the latest tech gadget. Blaming a brunch food is like blaming a single sprinkle of cinnamon for a pumpkin spice latte addiction.
Moreover, avocado toast isn’t just food; it’s a lifestyle. It’s the millennial equivalent of a 401(k). It’s an investment in happiness, a moment of zen in a chaotic world. Each bite is a tiny rebellion against the soul-crushing pressures of adulting. And let’s face it, a house might provide shelter, but can you really spread it on toast and top it with a poached egg?
The verdict
In the grand scheme of things, avo toast is a scapegoat, a delicious distraction from the real financial challenges millennials face. So, next time someone suggests that avocado toast is the reason you’re not rolling in cash, feel free to roll your eyes, take a bite of your toast, and remember that you’re not just eating breakfast—you’re living your best life, one creamy slice at a time.
