UCF economist Sean Snaith agrees with Clark Howard, saying consumers are going for basic needs - and that's it. "Economic Darwinism taking place. Survival of the fittest."

Some Orlando residents like this man say let the change begin. "I think this is a good thing, now we're getting to the real world. We'll buy a dollar cup of coffee."

Others say they make sacrifices to keep the status quo. "Drinking coffee and smoking cigarettes is my lifestyle. I couldn't give that up. I'll give up other things."