True Loves to face most expensive Christmas ever as PNC Christmas Price Index jumps 8.1% in 2008.

Cost of “The 12 Days of Christmas” Song Items Reflect Consumer Pricing Trends; Interactive Web Site Provides Teachers and Students With Insights on U.S. Economy.

Each year, the Christmas Price Index reflects trends in the broader economy. This year, commodities prices, concerns about increased energy and shipping costs, jobs, and a second straight minimum wage increase were major factors in the cost.

Swans have always been expensive because they are rare: in 1995 there were only 14,000. French hens are "cheaper" because they are in less demand. Performance artists such as pipers piping or drummers drumming receive higher wages due to their specialized skills - while maids-a-milking are the only unskilled laborers in the index.