This month's Planet Money podcast: The Cost of Life in America. 

Since the late 1990s, average prices have increased by 55.6 percent. But while things like televisions and smartphones have gotten much cheaper in that time, certain other things have gotten much more expensive. So while some people may be able to afford the latest gadget, certain other things remain out of reach. This month’s Planet Money looks at the true cost of living in America in the 21st century. Listen to podcast