Ronnie Dunn – Cost Of Livin’

Introduction

“Cost of Livin’” is a poignant country ballad co-written and recorded by Ronnie Dunn, released on June 27, 2011, as the second single from his self-titled debut solo album following Brooks & Dunn’s split . Dunn collaborated with Phillip Coleman on the composition, though Coleman penned most of the song; Dunn later reshaped the chorus and hook to better fit his own vision .

The song initially was held back in 2008 during the Great Recession. Dunn sensed the economy would recover, so he delayed recording it. At one point, label executives even warned him the song didn’t fit, saying he was “too wealthy” to sing credibly about hardship—a remark that Dunn found infuriating . Undeterred, he ultimately chose to release it in 2011 when its message rang more resonant than ever.

Lyrically, “Cost of Livin’” masterfully conveys the desperation of a working-class man in a job interview. The narrator highlights his military service, loyalty, and skills, counterposed with fear of financial ruin if he doesn’t secure employment . The narrative unfolds with subtle transition—from quiet pride to mounting anxiety—capturing a universal struggle: dignity clashing with penury .

Critics praised the song’s voiced authenticity and emotional weight. Country Universe’s Kevin John Coyne lauded it as “a masterpiece … timely, well‑written and performed,” awarding it an A grade . Taste of Country gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars, applauding the stark production and Dunn’s commanding vocal . Its impact was further cemented through two Grammy nominations: Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance.

While “Cost of Livin’” peaked modestly at No. 19 on Billboard’s Country Songs chart , its emotional truth and cultural relevance have earned it a place as one of Dunn’s most compelling solo statements—a moving reflection on the economic insecurities of contemporary America.

Video

Lyric

Everythin’ to know about me
Is written on this page
A number you can reach me
My social and my age
Yes, I served in the army
It’s where I learned to shoot
Eighteen months in the desert
Pourin’ sand out of my boots
No, I’ve never been convicted of a crime
I could start this job at any time
I got a strong back, steel toes
I rarely call in sick, a good truck
What I don’t know I catch on real quick
I work weekends, if I have to, nights and holidays
Give you forty and then some
Whatever it takes
Three dollars and change at the pump
The cost of livin’s high and goin’ up
I put Robert down as a reference
He’s known me all my life
We attend the same church
He introduced me to my wife
I gave my last job everythin’
Before it headed south
Took the shoes off of my children’s feet
Food out of their mouths
Yesterday my folks offered to help
But they’re barely gettin’ by themselves
I got a strong back, steel toes
I rarely call in sick, a good truck
What I don’t know I catch on real quick
I work weekends, if I have to, nights and holidays
Give you forty and then some
Whatever it takes
Four dollars and change at the pump
The cost of livin’s high and goin’ up
I’m sure a hundred others have applied
Rumor has it you’re only takin’ five
I got a strong back, steel toes
I’m handy with a wrench
There’s nothin’ I can’t drive
Nothin’ I can’t fix
I work sunup to sundown
Ain’t too proud to sweep the floors
The bank has started callin’
And the wolves are at my door
Four dollars and change at the pump
The cost of livin’s high and goin’ up