How much did things cost in 1939?

In 1939, the cost to purchase a house in the United States was between $3,800 and $6,400. Renting a house cost approximately $28 per month.

The price of a new car in 1939 was roughly $700, with Ford being one of the most popular automakers. Fuel for the car was only about 10 to 19 cents per gallon. Food prices included a loaf of bread for 8 cents, a gallon of milk for 49 cents, and a pound of hamburger meat for just 14 cents.

For entertainment, a guitar could be purchased for approximately $9, and a pair of roller skates cost less than $2. Of course, wages were a lot lower in 1939 as well. The average annual household salary was roughly $1,800.