$3 gasoline means changing lifestyles

Consumers cut other spending to compensate

As consumers brace for gas prices of $3 a gallon, their behavior patterns are changing in subtle yet broad ways, experts say.

“I use to go to the hairdresser every two weeks. Now I try to stretch it to three or four weeks,” said Barbara Alvarez of the Town of Wallkill.

Alvarez, who commutes to work in Westchester County, has cut back her spending because, she said, the amount she pays for gas has increased so much. “I spend like $60 a week on gas,” Alvarez said.

Budget cutbacks by customers like Alvarez are now widespread. Julie Braffett, owner of the hair salon Angles and Cuts by Julie, in Blooming Grove, said she’s seen it among her clientele.

Middletown Times Herald-Record (NY)