Everything is on the increase, from the price of your clothes to your weekly shopping. Now, even fast food, the traditionally quick and cheap meal, is skyrocketing, with one chain rising their prices more than any other.
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McDonald's was always one of the cheaper fast food chains out there a few years ago. For a couple of dollars, a cheap, cheerful, artery-blocking burger could be enjoyed. But, now, their prices have climbed so much that most people consider it a luxury, akin to a restaurant meal.
In the past ten years, McDonald's has reportedly raised its prices by an average of 100%, which is more than any other fast food chain. According to findings by FinanceBuzz, a quarter pounder meal in 2014 would have cost $5.39. But in 2024, that same burger and fries would set you back $11.99.
This price increase doesn't correlate with the country's inflation rates either. The prices of McDonald's fast food are more than three times the national inflation. The quality hasn't improved, and the portion sizes are most certainly not bigger, and yet we're all paying more.
Unfair Statistics Says Fast Food Chain McDonald's
Despite the research, McDonald's claims that the report on their raised fast food process isn't fair. According to them, each store is a franchise, so prices are up to the individual owner. Sure, one McDonald's may have had a $5.39 quarter pounder meal in 2014, and another had a $11.99 one ten years later, but it isn't representative of the average for the company as a whole.
They claim that their prices haven't increased that much. A spokesperson for the fast food giant said their prices were much more stable. "This is not an accurate representation of historical or current pricing at McDonald's restaurants, and the 2024 average prices listed are significantly inflated."
But anyone who has been buying McDonald's fast food over the years will have seen the raised prices for themselves. Across the country, US fast food fans are opting out of more regular splurges on burgers and pizza.
Fast-food chains have seen a massive drop in footfall and spending. With increased costs in produce and staff almost being paid enough for their gas to get to work, the cost of fast food has climbed. Diners are getting a quick bite much less often. With increased import tariffs, these prices are only going to get higher, too. Will this be the end of US fast food?
