Being Poor Is Expensive

Being Poor is Expensive is the second studio album by the British rapper Bashy.

The album was released on July 11, 2024, through PIAS by Bish Bash Bosh Music Limited. The album features guest appearances from Skrapz, Haile and Roses Gabor. The album marked Bashy's return to music after a decade long hiatus. The album debuted number 3 on the The Official UK Hip Hop and R&B Charts.

Being Poor is Expensive was recorded at several studios in London, with producers Toddla T, Benji B and PRGRSHN.

The concept album tells a coming-of-age story about Bashy's windrush heritage, adolescence in London, surrounded by the streets and violent lifestyle of his native London Borough of Brent. The album received positive reception from critics, who praised its themes and storytelling. The album earned Bashy an Ivor Novello nomination for the song How Black Men Lose Their Smile and three MOBO Award nominations, with the album winning Album of the Year at the 2025 MOBO Awards ceremony.

The album was named on multiple end-of-the-year lists, with Complex naming Being Poor is Expensive the best album of 2024.