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Three things that will cost you more in 2018

New year, higher prices.

It's a new year, and that often means price increases on everything from a burger to a college education.

Here's a look at three things that will definitely cost you more in 2018...

AKRON INCOME TAXES

This particular increase only impacts those who live and/or work in Akron, where an income tax increase will go into effect starting Jan. 1.

This increase should come as no surprise, as voters overwhelmingly passed it back in November with a 69% vote "yes" for Issue 4.

That increased tax rate will now be paid on any wages, salaries, business profits and commissions earned within the city of Akron.

So how much will your income tax increase? If you make about $50,000 a year, you'll end up paying an additional $125 annually.

The tax increase is expected to generate an extra $16 million every year for Akron. Officials say the money will help repave 43 miles of road, fix dilapidated fire stations and buy more than 60 new police cruisers. Akron police will also be equipped with at least 200 more body cameras thank to the increased tax revenue.

COLLEGE TUITION

Maybe your new year's resolution is to get back to college... But get ready to pay more this year.

The University of Akron, Kent State University, Cleveland State University and Youngstown State University are all increasing tuition, starting this Fall semester. Both the University of Akron and Cleveland State have said they will increase tuition and fees for in-state freshmen by 6%.

This brings tuition for the University of Akron up to $11,857 per year (two semesters.) Cleveland State University will ring up at $10,392 per year (two semesters). The cheapest of the three, Youngstown State University, will be $8,899 per year (two semesters).

Kent State University's tuition rate will be decided and announced in March, but school officials have already said they will indeed increase tuition and fees for in-state freshmen starting in the Fall as well.

While higher education isn't getting any cheaper in 2018, it's not all bad news.

After this increase, all four universities will then freeze tuition rates for the next four years, following new regulations. So if you can get that degree within a four-year timeframe, you should be able to avoid any surprise increases down the road.

Another bit of good news for non-Ohioans -- the University of Akron announced it is actually cutting tuition for out-of-state students by $4,000 in the hopes of enticing new talent to the area.

FOOD

Your grocery bill is likely going to get a little heftier this year.

According to the Consumer Price Index released by the USDA, your overall grocery bill is expected to increase by 1-2% for the year.

Though they predict increases in the price of just about everything, the largest jumps include beef and veal (2-3% increase), fresh fruits (3-4% increase) and eggs (4-5% increase). Other items, like chicken and avocados, will continue to increase due to supply and demand.

If you go grocery shopping at the West Side Market, another thing that'll cost you more this year is parking.

The City of Cleveland announced it will be charging for parking in the lot behind the historic market. During the daytime, the first 90 minutes are free, but shoppers should expect to pay $1 an hour after that.

So, what about eating out?

Well, according to the USDA, you should expect to pay 2-3% more this year for food bought away from home, including restaurants, concessions, etc.

The silver lining: Prices for butters, various oils and salad dressings and fresh vegetables are some of the few items predicted to actually go down in price.

That's just one more reason to put down that steak and pick up a salad this new year, even if it's just to save a little cash.

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