Chick-fil-A just proved it again—teens can’t resist those waffle fries. The fast-food giant has once more snagged the top spot in Piper Sandler’s latest “Taking Stock with Teens” survey, leaving McDonald’s and Chipotle in the dust. But here’s the twist: while teens are fiercely loyal to their favorite chicken sandwiches, they’re tightening their wallets overall. The survey reveals how Gen Z’s habits are shifting, from what they eat and drink to who they follow online. Let’s break down what today’s teens really love—and what they’re skipping.
Chick-fil-A Still Rules Teen Taste Buds
Once again, Chick-fil-A is crowned the top restaurant among teens, winning 17% of their votes. McDonald’s trailed at 11%, while Chipotle claimed 10%. The Atlanta-based chain first unseated Starbucks years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Whether it’s the chicken sandwiches, the service, or those signature sauces, Chick-fil-A clearly has the teen market figured out.
Teens Are Spending Less—A Lot Less
Despite brand loyalty, teens are cutting back. Reported spending dropped 6% year-over-year to $2,213, the lowest in a decade. That’s not just fewer lattes and sneakers—it signals a broader pullback among young consumers. Inflation and tighter budgets at home could be key reasons why wallets are closing faster than drive-thru windows.
McDonald’s and Chipotle Hold Their Ground
While Chick-fil-A stays on top, McDonald’s and Chipotle remain steady runners-up. Both have leaned into digital deals, loyalty programs, and social media promos to stay relevant. McDonald’s collaborations with pop stars and Chipotle’s customizable bowls still resonate with teens looking for quick, familiar meals that feel “cool.”
Starbucks Gets the Boot
Starbucks once reigned supreme, but Chick-fil-A dethroned it seven years ago—and the coffee chain hasn’t reclaimed its crown. Maybe caffeine isn’t as big a draw for younger teens, or maybe $7 drinks just don’t fit shrinking budgets. Either way, Starbucks has some serious ground to recover if it wants to win back Gen Z’s hearts.
Snack Aisle Royalty: Lays and Red Bull
When it comes to snacks and sips, teens are all about big flavor and energy. Lays reigns supreme with 12% of teens calling it their go-to snack, while Red Bull dominates the beverage scene at a whopping 28%. It’s clear that salty crunch and caffeinated buzz still define snack time for this crowd.
Dr Pepper Beats Out Coca-Cola—Barely
Coca-Cola may have global fame, but teens are leaning slightly more toward Dr Pepper, which snagged 10% of votes compared to Coke’s 9%. That small edge might come down to Dr Pepper’s sweeter flavor—or just plain trendiness. Either way, it’s proof that even classic brands have to fight for Gen Z’s attention.
Nike Still Owns Teen Closets
No surprise here—Nike remains the top name in teen fashion. From sneakers to hoodies, the brand’s “Just Do It” ethos still hits hard with young shoppers. Despite spending less, teens seem unwilling to give up their swoosh. It’s brand power at its finest.
Sephora and e.l.f. Dominate Beauty Picks
In beauty, two names rule: e.l.f. and Sephora. Teens love e.l.f. for its affordability and influencer-fueled buzz, while Sephora holds “destination” status for those who want to browse high-end brands. Together, they show how Gen Z balances luxury aspirations with budget reality.
TikTok Totally Trumps Instagram
TikTok has become teens’ go-to app, capturing 46% of their screen time compared to Instagram’s 31% and Snapchat’s 14%. The platform’s fast-moving trends, humor, and creators like MrBeast keep it sticky. It’s not just entertainment—it’s where culture is made.
Adam Sandler Tops Teen Celebrity List
In a surprisingly wholesome twist, Adam Sandler is teens’ favorite celebrity. His easygoing humor and relatable roles seem to bridge generations, proving that timeless funny still wins over viral fame. Sorry, TikTok stars—classic comedy still has pull.
MrBeast Is the Undisputed Influencer King
When it comes to influencers, one name towers above all: MrBeast. Known for his over-the-top stunts and massive giveaways, he’s captured the admiration (and attention spans) of millions. Teens see him not just as an entertainer, but as someone who actually gives back—and that matters.
Teen Life by the Numbers
The survey polled nearly 11,000 teens, averaging 15.7 years old. About one-third hold part-time jobs, and their households earn an average of $69,527 annually. That paints a clear picture: these are digital-native teens navigating limited budgets and changing values, yet still shaping consumer culture in real time.
Chicken, Culture, and Cash Crunch
Teens might be spending less, but they still know what they like—and Chick-fil-A tops that list. From Red Bull to Nike, their favorites reveal a mix of practicality, hype, and loyalty. The takeaway? Gen Z might be watching their wallets, but they’re not giving up on flavor or fun. Did your favorite teen brand make the cut—or are you surprised by what didn’t? Tell us what you think in the comments.
