A few cocktails with friends can be a great way to unwind, but they can also rack up a hefty bill as cocktail prices are currently at an all-time high.

According to VinePair, drinks cost nearly 40% more than they did in the early 2010s, a staggering increase that can be blamed essentially on the vibe economy.

Post-lockdown, people had a collective desire for a good time and new experiences, resulting in a trend of decadence that has defined bar and restaurant culture.

Moreover, the popularity of TikTok has led to bars cultivating an immersive experience with drinks that look as good as they taste to facilitate TikTok videos.

These drinks can quickly become complicated with multiple different ingredients that require the bar to remain fully stocked with diverse, high-end items.

Plus, the rise of the sober-curious leads to fewer drink orders and less money generated from drink sales, thus driving up the prices of drinks.