Fast food isn’t so cheap anymore. Over the last decade, the price of your favorite burgers, fries, and coffee drinks has soared far beyond national inflation. While overall U.S. inflation rose just 31% since 2014, fast food chains have boosted prices at breakneck speed. McDonald’s leads the pack with a jaw-dropping 100% increase, while even budget-friendly chains haven’t been spared. Let’s break down which restaurants are guilty of the steepest hikes and which ones managed to keep it somewhat under control.
McDonald’s Tops the Inflation Charts
McDonald’s has become the poster child of rising fast food costs, with prices climbing 100% since 2014. The iconic McChicken alone jumped from $1 to $3, a 200% increase on its own. While convenience and brand loyalty keep customers coming back, the price shock has left many wondering if the “dollar menu” days are gone for good.
Popeyes Is Close Behind
Popeyes takes second place with menu prices shooting up 86%. Known for its fried chicken and sandwiches, the chain has consistently raised costs in recent years. For loyal fans, the crispy flavor may still be worth it, but the affordability gap is clear.
Chick-fil-A’s Reputation Comes With a Price
Chick-fil-A’s prices have risen 81% in the past decade. Its reputation for quality service and chicken sandwiches hasn’t stopped the creeping costs. Customers may love the food, but they’re paying nearly double compared to 2014.
Chipotle’s Burritos Get Pricier
Chipotle sits at a 75% increase, proving that “fast-casual” isn’t immune to inflation. The customizable burrito bowls and tacos remain popular, but the rising bill has some customers questioning the value. Fresh ingredients come at a steep cost compared to 10 years ago.
Wendy’s Joins the Middle of the Pack
Wendy’s raised prices by 62% since 2014. Known for its square burgers and Frostys, the chain has followed the trend of steady hikes. It’s not as extreme as McDonald’s, but it’s still double the national inflation levels.
Taco Bell Isn’t Far Behind
Taco Bell’s menu is up 55% compared to a decade ago. Once a go-to for cheap late-night meals, it’s not quite the budget stop it used to be. Fans of crunchy tacos and burritos are still loyal, but the rising costs are harder to ignore.
Panera Bread Raises the Bar
Panera shows a 54% increase, keeping pace with other major chains. The bakery-café style menu appeals to health-conscious diners, but even salads and sandwiches now cost significantly more. It’s still a popular lunch stop, just not as wallet-friendly.
Starbucks Holds the Line Better Than Most
Among the big names, Starbucks shows one of the lowest increases at 39%. That’s still higher than the national inflation rate, but compared to the triple-digit hikes elsewhere, it feels restrained. For daily coffee drinkers, though, even small increases add up quickly.
Subway Stays Relatively Affordable
Subway’s price increases clock in at 39%, the same as Starbucks. Footlong subs remain relatively more affordable compared to other chains, though the days of the $5 Footlong are long gone. The chain has managed to keep closer to national inflation levels than most competitors.
The Real Inflation Benchmark
The U.S. inflation rate over the same period sits at just 31%. That means every single fast food chain on the list raised prices beyond the actual cost of living increase. Customers are paying a premium well above standard inflation for the convenience of a quick meal.
