By Staff Reporter – Democrats and Guns
June 15, 2025

Secondhand shopping is making a major comeback across the U.S., and Cedar Rapids is riding the wave. From 1980s-inspired fashion to solid wood furniture and unique accessories, thrift stores have become hot spots for stylish and sustainable living.

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are helping fuel the movement, with users showcasing thrifted finds and dramatic DIY home decor transformations. The trend encourages more people to reuse and repurpose rather than buy new—an eco-friendly shift that many celebrate.

However, there’s an unintended consequence: rising prices.

At the Cedar Rapids Salvation Army thrift store, longtime customers are noticing higher costs on everything from clothing to kitchenware. A couch once priced at $40 may now sell for over $80. Vinyl records, vintage lamps, and even costume jewelry are fetching much higher prices than in previous years.

This surge is partly driven by increased demand—but also by a growing interest in mining donated items for hidden value. Some buyers target pieces with gold components to melt down or resell online for profit.

“There’s definitely a market for scrapping or flipping,” said a store employee who requested anonymity. “People are looking for jewelry, hardware, even furniture with valuable materials. That demand pushes prices up.”

While the Salvation Army says the added revenue helps fund critical services—such as food distribution, shelters, and recovery programs—those rising prices are impacting the very people the organization is meant to serve.

“I used to rely on that store for clothes and kitchen basics,” said one Cedar Rapids resident and mother of two. “Now I leave empty-handed. Even the budget racks feel out of reach lately.”

Store leadership acknowledges the tension, noting they face increasing operational costs and growing demand for aid.

“We’re trying to balance accessibility with sustainability,” said a local representative. “But it’s a difficult line to walk.”

With prices climbing, some residents are turning to community swap events and local free-cycle groups as alternatives to traditional thrift shopping.

The secondhand boom may be good for the planet—but for many in Cedar Rapids, it’s becoming harder to meet basic needs.

For those in urgent need who find the Salvation Army out of reach, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque may be able to help. They offer a range of support services, including emergency assistance, housing help, and mental health counseling. You can reach their Cedar Rapids office at 420 6th Street SE, Suite 220, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401, or call (319) 364-7121 for more information.