Can you use 'dear' instead of 'expensive' where you live?

I'm 45, I've lived in England and Australia. I've only ever used Expensive. I don't remember ever hearing someone use Dear, unless it was in a period movie or period TV show.
My parents are in their mid 70's and I have never heard them using Dear when they mean Expensive.

"dear" used to be quite common down here in Oz. I haven't heard it too much of late.

For once I’m someone who knows what the fudge you’re on about.

And yes, I still use dear as a synonym for expensive sometimes. Mostly I say “exie”

("dear" meaning scarce and therefore costly)

That's an expression I heard my grandmother use -- And, she'd be well over 100 today. So, I'm assuming it's an old term.

It remains very common in Ireland.

"Rad" and now "dope" appear to have replaced "cool", but I'll never use those words.

No, no one will know what I am trying to say except aficionados of Downton Abbey and perhaps some really old senior citizans

I've heard "dear" in old American movies from the 30s and 40s.

The usage may be French-related. "Cher" means both dear and expensive. It's used for both today.