G'day Norm
Yes, that's a good observation there.
Lawnmowers did come down in price relative to wages, but
still remained an expensive household item last century.

This century, I feel there has been a concerted move to make the domestic
lawnmower less a durable, repairable garden product, and more a
throw-away household appliance.

Lawnmowers have never been cheaper ... but, like pizza, you
get what you pay for.

Cheers
-------------------------
Jack