Evaluating True Value Through Cost Per Use Analysis
Cost per use analysis divides total cost by number of uses, revealing that expensive items used frequently may provide better value than cheap items rarely used. A $200 jacket worn 100 times costs $2 per wear versus $50 jacket worn 10 times at $5 per wear.
Time horizon favors durable quality items. A $1,000 stand mixer used 3x weekly for 15 years (2,340 uses) costs $0.43 per use versus $100 mixer replaced 5 times over 15 years totaling $500. Hidden costs beyond purchase price include maintenance, consumables, storage space, and opportunity cost of capital.