real cost

1. The cost of producing a good or service, including the cost of all resources used and the cost of not employing those resources in alternative uses.

Example Sentences

Mr Hales said a recent survey of its members suggested the real cost of delivering a meal was actually more like £3.45 - roughly 80p more than the £2.61 given to schools to fund free school meals in England.

From BBC

“Then we would actually see the real cost of fossil fuel energy — and it would help us transition hopefully faster and with more equity.”

From Los Angeles Times

Conservative Christianity is being pitched to young people as a miracle beauty treatment, one that's implied to come at no real cost.

From Salon

"These are the real life consequences of not getting the service they need and this is the real cost of picking up the tab for the NHS," he said.

From BBC

I’ve been reflecting on the real cost of convenience and instant gratification when it comes to food.

From Salon