The given table demonstrates the average percentage of household expenditure across six major categories in a European nation from 1920 to 1980
Overall, it is obvious that while spending on transportation and housing increased significantly, expenditures on food and clothing decreased notably. Another noteworthy feature is that, by 1950, all six groups underwent strong shifts in both ranking and figures.
In terms of categories that witnessed remarkable changes, Initially, expenses on food accounted for the largest share at 41%, the opposite was true for clothing category, just 3% of total speding. Housing expenditure stood at 26%. From 1950 onward, spending on transportation increased considerably by 10% before rising up to 25% in 1980, which shows a clear shift in priorities. As for housing expenses, the figures saw a stable increase, but surged to 33% at the end of the period, becoming the largest speding category. Expenditure on food decreased to 32% and continued to drop to 19%, leaving it far below housing and transportation.
Regarding the others, by 1920, expenditures on clothing accounting for 17%, doubled than that of other categories, which was 9%. Healthcare made up a marginal proportion, at 4%. By 1950, expenses allocated on clothing dropped remarkably to 5% in 1980, showcasing a clear shift away from basic needs. Other groups saw a moderate rise to 14% rather than dramatic changes. Finally, budget spending on healthcare remains unchanged toward the end of the period despite experiencing some slight fluctuation.
