The ’70s had a vibe all its own, especially when it came to what families could afford. Certain items or experiences were clear signs of wealth, setting some kids apart from the rest.
If you grew up wondering which things only rich families had back then, this article will give you a glimpse into those unique markers of privilege. You might be surprised by how some of those things shaped childhood in ways that went beyond just money.
Motorized skateboards
If you had a motorized skateboard in the ’70s, you were definitely living the high life. These were not your average skateboards. They had engines that gave you a little extra speed—something only wealthier kids could afford.
You didn’t see these everywhere. They were expensive and pretty rare, making them a solid flex among your friends. Riding one meant you stood out at the skate park or around the neighborhood.
Plus, it was a glimpse into futuristic fun. Not many kids got to zip around on something motorized back then, so owning one felt like a real upgrade from the usual push and coast style.
Custom leisure suits
If you were from a wealthy family in the ’70s, chances are you owned a custom leisure suit. These weren’t your everyday clothes—they were tailored just for you, made to fit perfectly and stand out.
The style was all about bold colors and unique patterns, something you wouldn’t find in regular stores. Having a suit like this gave you a serious style edge at parties or family events.
You likely remember how these suits combined comfort with a bit of flash, making them the go-to for rich kids who wanted to look sharp but still feel relaxed.
High-fidelity stereo systems
If you had a high-fidelity stereo system in the ’70s, you were definitely ahead of most people on your street. These setups came in polished wooden cabinets and delivered rich, clear sound that made your record collection feel alive.
You probably had tape decks, turntables, and speakers that filled the room with your favorite music. Not everyone could afford these, so having one was a clear sign of some extra cash in the family.
Owning a system like this meant you took your music seriously. It was more than just playing tunes; it was about experiencing sound in a way most people didn’t get to back then.
CB radios
If you grew up in the ’70s, you quickly learned that having a CB radio was a big deal. Not every family had one, but if yours did, you were part of a cool club.
CB radios were like your own private walkie-talkie system, perfect for chatting with friends or truckers on the road. They weren’t just gadgets—they were a way to stay connected and show off.
Using a CB was fun and a little adventurous. It gave you instant communication, which wasn’t common at the time, making you feel a bit ahead of the game.
Betamax recorders
If you had a Betamax recorder in your house back in the ’70s, you were definitely on the cutting edge of tech. These machines let you record TV shows and movies, which was a big deal since not everyone could do that yet.
Betamax was a bit of a luxury because the players and tapes cost quite a bit. Most families stuck with regular TVs, but having a Betamax made your home feel futuristic. You could basically build your own little home video library before it was cool.
Private swim clubs
If you grew up in a well-off family in the ’70s, chances are you had access to a private swim club. These were exclusive spots where you could hang out with friends, swim, and avoid crowded public pools.
Membership wasn’t cheap, so not everyone could just walk in. You got a taste of luxury by enjoying clean, well-maintained pools and sometimes even extra amenities like snack bars or tennis courts.
For you, these clubs were more than pools—they were social hubs where the kids of rich families got to show off a little and make connections.
