Once upon a time, the fast food drive-thru was the go-to spot for an affordable, quick, albeit not-so-nutritious meal. However, those days are fading fast as prices have surged. New research sheds light on just how much more expensive our favorite fast food chains have become.
FinanceBuzz crunched the numbers, comparing 2014 prices to today’s rates. The results reveal which chains have hiked their prices the most over the past decade:
- McDonald’s: The golden arches take the lead, with menu items soaring by an average of 100% in the last 10 years. That’s three times the national inflation rate during the same period. For instance, a 10-piece order of Chicken McNuggets, once priced at $5.99, now costs $10.99.
- Popeyes: Not far behind, Popeyes has seen an 86% increase in menu prices.
- Taco Bell: The place where loose change used to buy a meal has raised prices by 81%.
- Chipotle: A 75% price hike at Chipotle has left burrito lovers feeling the pinch.
- Jimmy John’s: Their menu has climbed by 62%.
- Arby’s, Burger King, Chick-fil-A, and Wendy’s: All tied at 55%, these chains have collectively made our wallets lighter.
- Panera: Rounding out the list, Panera has seen a 54% increase in prices.
SOURCE: Mental Floss