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For many people, a trip to Goodwill Industries International used to mean one thing: finding a great deal. But lately, shoppers say that experience is starting to change.

In a recent discussion on Reddit, people shared what they’ve been noticing in stores, and the conversation quickly turned into a broader reflection on how thrifting at Goodwill feels different than it used to.

Depositphotos 836379526 L — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

“It’s Getting Harder to Find a Deal”

One of the most common frustrations mentioned was pricing. Several shoppers said items that were once considered affordable now feel noticeably more expensive, with some even comparing prices to what they’d pay for brand-new items at regular retail stores.

That shift has made it harder for people to justify shopping secondhand, especially when the savings aren’t as clear as they once were.

For longtime shoppers, that change stands out the most. What used to feel like a place to stretch a budget now, for some, feels less predictable.

Where Did the “Good Finds” Go?

Another theme that came up repeatedly was the sense that the best items aren’t reaching the sales floor. Some shoppers believe higher-value or name-brand items are being pulled and sold online instead, leaving fewer standout finds in stores. While not everyone agreed on how often this happens, many said they’ve noticed a difference in selection.

That change, they say, takes away part of what made thrifting fun in the first place the chance to discover something unexpected at a great price.

A Different Kind of Thrift Store Experience

For some, the shift isn’t just about price or inventory; it’s about the overall experience.

Several commenters described stores feeling more crowded with inventory but less curated, with full racks that are harder to shop through. Others pointed out that seeing more worn or damaged items still priced relatively high adds to the frustration.

“Half the fun was the treasure hunt,” one shopper shared. “Now it just feels like work.”

Not Everyone Agrees

While many comments were critical, others were quick to point out that not every Goodwill location is the same. Because stores operate regionally, experiences can vary widely depending on where you shop.

Some users said their local stores still offer reasonable prices and a steady rotation of quality items, especially compared to traditional retail. For those shoppers, Goodwill still serves an important purpose, especially for families trying to save money.

The Bigger Shift in Thrifting

Part of what shoppers are noticing may reflect a larger trend. Secondhand shopping has grown significantly in popularity, and with that demand comes changes in how items are priced, sorted, and sold. Online resale has also become a bigger part of the process, which may influence what ends up in stores.

For many longtime shoppers, though, the biggest difference is how it feels.

The Bottom Line

Goodwill hasn’t disappeared, but for some shoppers, it doesn’t feel quite the same. Rising prices, changing inventory, and a different in-store experience have left some people questioning whether it’s still the go-to spot it once was.

At the same time, others say it still offers value; you just have to shop a little differently. And as the discussion shows, whether Goodwill is “worth it” today depends largely on what you’re hoping to find and what you remember it being.