The Pink Tax Is Real, People
It pays to be a man — literally — in more ways than one.
A new study conducted by New York City’s Department of Consumer Affairs on pricing disparities between genders has found that on average women’s products cost 7 percent more than similar products for men.
The fact that men spend less on certain items isn’t a groundbreaking revelation. The phenomenon, known as the “pink tax” or the “woman tax,” is the increased cost on basic items and services. But this is the first time a city has launched an investigation into the price gouging practice.
Scooters for sale at Target show very different prices.
The government, led by DCA Commissioner Julie Menin, analyzed nearly 800 products with clear gender divisions (practically identical in substance and function but marketed and packaged distinctly) from more than 90 brands sold at two dozen retailers in New York City, both online and in stores. They examined things across multiple categories including toys and accessories, children’s clothing, adult clothing, personal care products, and home health care products for seniors.
In addition to general findings, such as that women pony up 13 percent more for personal care products, the report found specific instances. For example, a Radio Flyer scooter from Target costs $24.99 in red for boys and $49.99 for girls in pink. Or that Levi’s jeans cost $68 for guys and $88 for girls.
“In New York City, businesses can set their own prices, but it is DCA’s job to make sure that a consumer knows what that price is,” Menin explained. “That is why we have conducted this study, to educate consumers about the disparities so they can make the most educated shopping choices. We also encourage all New Yorkers to join us in calling on retailers to change their pricing practices.”
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