Fast Food Is Now a 'Luxury' Because It’s Become So Expensive

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Some are saying that a trip through the fast-food drive-thru has become an extravagance. I find it interesting that I heard plenty of stories from people over the age of 65 mention fast food being a treat when they were younger and it was no more than a “once in a while” kind of thing. So, for me, this checks out. But why are people saying this?

A survey conducted by LendingTree, an online loan marketplace, asked more than 2,000 people about their views and behaviors around fast food and how they’ve changed in the “wake of seemingly everything getting more and more expensive.”

Is Fast Food Now A Luxury?

Half of those polled said they view fast food as a luxury because they’re struggling financially. This is especially true among Americans who make less than $30,000 a year (71%), parents with young children (58%), and Gen Zers (58%).

A majority say they are pulling back on their consumption due to high prices. The findings show that 3 out of 4 people typically eat fast food once a week, but 62% of respondents said they are eating it less frequently due to the cost.

Sixty-three percent of those surveyed agreed fast food should be cheaper than eating at home, but 75% say that is not the case. Nearly half of Americans (46%) say a meal at a fast-food restaurant costs about the same as one at their local sit-down restaurants, and 22% said fast food is actually more expensive.

In the LendingTree survey, when asked about their go-to for an easy, inexpensive meal, 56% of respondents cited making food at home.

Outside Perspective on Fast-Food Pricing

Many would agree that fast food has seen some significant changes over the years in price and quality. On Reddit, people shared their own perspectives on fast-food pricing. "My son's favorite is Arby's and I just can't justify it anymore. Remember when Beef n Cheddar was 2 for $5? Now it's 2 for $12. At least in our city," someone said.

Another person said, "Went to Popeyes last week and nearly died when the 5-piece tender meal was $15. It’s nearly doubled in price in 2 years to the point that I can sit down and eat at a way nicer restaurant for that."

Several people gave up fast food altogether. "So glad I gave up fast food. Not only for the money but for the health aspect. It's terrible for you," someone said. "I just don't even go anymore. I also got those coupons and they went straight into recycling," another person said.

Take a look at the complete study and its findings here.

Kayla MorganAuthor

Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it. She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel. A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community. She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.