I know that different words mean different things to different people.

Perhaps because of the way our families used a particular word?

Every time I hear the word "cheap" - it's like the sound of fingernails on a blackboard to me.

The connotation to me has always been very negative.

"Inexpensive" - on the other hand, to me, is neutral.

I agree. I want inexpensive good fabric. I don't want cheap fabric at any price. This is just an example of how I use the two words:)

It also is in the way some one was brought up in life.

I agree. "Cheap" is usually negative and "inexpensive" would be neutral - it could just mean a good deal, something simple, or lean towards cheap. It would be interesting to see what others say from other areas - I'm in the Midwest as well.

how about "a real deal!"

DH and I have a saying,
Cheap is good but free is better.

"Cheap" reminds me of the old TV ads for used cars...

Frugal works for me....lol

Ditto

Cheap to me is an awesome deal on something I want.
Inexpensive is the deal I got on things I need.