Fast Food Prices Increase Over Past 10 Years

Fast Food Prices Increase Over Past 10 Years

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Inflation’s impact on the fast food industry is undeniable. Over the past decade, it has reshaped the landscape of everyone’s favorite quick bites. From iconic burgers to beloved sides and beverages, the prices we once took for granted have steadily climbed, reflecting broader economic shifts.

This article examines how inflation has transformed the affordability and accessibility of fast food staples across popular chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Taco Bell. Each item, from the humble McChicken to the indulgent Whopper Meal, tells a story of its own, highlighting not just the rising costs but also the evolving consumer experience.

What used to be inexpensive, affordable food items have transformed into cravings we now have to think twice about indulging in. Just a decade ago, these price points were logical. These days, it’s fast food insanity!

We’ll explore the numbers—comparing 2014 prices to their 2024 counterparts. So grab a snack, settle in, and let’s unravel the tale of inflation’s impact on your favorite fast food fixes.

10 Piece McNugget Meal (McDonald’s)

10 Piece McNugget Meal (McDonald’s)
N509FZ, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chicken_McNuggets_10pcs_with_mashed_chili_sauce_(20230602121418).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $5.99
  • 2024 Price: $10.99
  • Difference: +$5.00
  • Inflation: 83%

 

Remember when you only paid $5.99 for a 10-piece McNugget meal? It seems like a lifetime ago. These days, we’re paying $10.99. 
 

Filet-O-Fish (McDonald’s)

Filet-O-Fish (McDonald’s)
"IMG_1499"/hslo/CC BY-SA 2.0/Flickr(https://www.flickr.com/photos/hslo/5407765977/)
  • 2014 Price: $3.49
  • 2024 Price: $5.49
  • Difference: $2.00
  • Inflation: 57%

The Filet-O-Fish from Mickey D’s is an odd staple that cost $3.49 in 2014. But today, you’re looking at a $5.49 bill—up $2.00 for the fish sandwich. Hope you have a side hustle.
 

Big Mac (McDonald’s)

Big Mac (McDonald’s)
Matilda assumed, CC BY-SA 2.5 , via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Big_Mac_hamburger_-_Australia.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $3.99
  • 2024 Price: $5.99
  • Difference: +$2.00
  • Inflation: 50%


 

Today, you can enjoy the iconic Big Mac for $5.99. However, just a decade ago, we were sinking our teeth into one of these for $2.00 less. Weren’t those the good ol’ days. 

Regular Mashed Potatoes and Gravy (Popeyes)

Regular Mashed Potatoes and Gravy (Popeyes)
Willis Lam, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Popeyes_Mash_Potatoes_and_Gravy_(31075571380).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.79
  • 2024 Price: $4.19
  • Difference: +$2.40
  • Inflation: 134%


 

In 2014, you could chow down on some mashed potatoes and gravy for just $1.79. These days, expect to pay 134% more for the same comfort food. It’s all a bit much.

4 Piece Chicken Dinner (Popeyes)

4 Piece Chicken Dinner (Popeyes)
© BrokenSphere / Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Popeyes_mild_chicken.JPG)
  • 2014 Price: $6.99
  • 2024 Price: $13.79
  • Difference: +$6.80
  • Inflation: 97%


 

The inflation for the 4-piece chicken dinner is slightly lower than our previous contender, but you’re still paying $6.80 more for the meal today than you were a decade ago. That should be enough to buy another meal!

Beefy 5-Layer Burrito (Taco Bell)

Beefy 5-Layer Burrito (Taco Bell)
"Beef 5 layer burrito"/mariana92631/CC BY 2.0/Flickr(https://www.flickr.com/photos/164376442@N02/44678437282/)
  • 2014 Price: $1.59
  • 2024 Price: $3.69
  • Difference: +$2.10
  • Inflation: 132%

Taco Bell’s signature Beefy 5-Layer Burrito, with its layers of beef, cheese, beans, sour cream, and nacho cheese sauce, was a steal at $1.59. But in 2024, you’re paying $3.69. A real disappointment for the late-night crowd.

Chalupa Supreme (Taco Bell)

Chalupa Supreme (Taco Bell)
3steph14, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chalupa_taco_bell.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $2.19
  • 2024 Price: $4.59
  • Difference: +$2.40
  • Inflation: 110%

Taco Bell’s Chalupa Supreme was a hit a decade ago at $2.19, appealing to late-night snackers and fast food aficionados alike. However, these days, the price has been jacked up to $4.59, marking a $2.40 increase.

Barbacoa Burrito (Chipotle)

Barbacoa Burrito (Chipotle)
"Eating a barbacoa burrito from Chipotle"/Aranami/CC BY 2.0/Flickr
  • 2014 Price: $6.65
  • 2024 Price: $12.40
  • Difference: +$5.75
  • Inflation: 87%

Back in 2014, Chipotle’s Barbacoa Burrito was a favorite among hungry diners at $6.65. But as of 2024, the price has risen to $12.40, marking a $5.75 increase. Tasting a little expensive these days.
 

Large Soda (Chipotle)

Large Soda (Chipotle)
Sarah Stierch (CC BY 4.0)(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chicken_burrito_bowl_with_tortilla_chips_and_drink_at_Chipotle_-_August_2022_-_Sarah_Stierch.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.90
  • 2024 Price: $3.40
  • Difference: +$1.50
  • Inflation: 79%

Ten years ago, a large soda from Chipotle was a refreshing add-on at just $1.90. Now you’re paying $3.40 for that same drink—a $1.50 increase. Even the simplest pleasures come with a significantly higher price tag in today’s economy.
 

“Add Guac” (Chipotle)

“Add Guac” (Chipotle)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/fresh-guacamole-texture-on-whole-background-close-up/410854815?prev_url=detail)
  • 2014 Price: $1.80
  • 2024 Price: $2.95
  • Difference: +$1.15
  • Inflation: 64%

Back in 2014, a simple “Add Guac” request was a no-brainer at just $1.80. But today, you’re dishing out $2.95—almost $3.00 for a side of guacamole! Guac lovers, beware!

Chips (Jimmy John’s)

Chips (Jimmy John’s)
Willis Lam, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jimmy_John%27s_wrapped_sandwiches_and_chips_(29822324831).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $0.99
  • 2024 Price: $1.82
  • Difference: +$0.83
  • Inflation: 84%

A bag of chips from Jimmy John’s ten years ago was a steal at just $0.99—the perfect crunchy side to your sandwich. These days, it’s a different story, with an increase of $0.83. Even the smallest treats are susceptible to extreme inflation.
 

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie (Jimmy John’s)

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie (Jimmy John’s)
Gaurav Dhwaj Khadka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Oatmeal_Raisin_cookie.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.50
  • 2024 Price: $2.61
  • Difference: +$1.11
  • Inflation: 74%

A popular item, the oatmeal raisin cookie’s inflation over the past ten years is significant. What used to be a small price point of $1.50 has jumped to $2.61 in 2024. It makes us rethink buying that sweet treat.
 

Cherry Turnover (Arby’s)

Cherry Turnover (Arby’s)
Willis Lam, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Arby%27s_Cherry_Turnover_(20951440012).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.29
  • 2024 Price: $2.29
  • Difference: +$1.00
  • Inflation: 78%


 

Back in 2014, treating yourself to an Arby’s Cherry Turnover was a sweet deal at just $1.29. But now we’re paying $2.29 for that same fruity delight. Is it really worth the extra dollar?

Roast Turkey Ranch and Bacon Combo (Arby’s)

Roast Turkey Ranch and Bacon Combo (Arby’s)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/club-sandwich-on-italian-crucnchy-bread/586384575)
  • 2014 Price: $7.49
  • 2024 Price: $12.49
  • Difference: +$5.00
  • Inflation: 67%
     

A decade ago, indulging in an Arby’s Roast Turkey Ranch and Bacon Combo was a savory delight at $7.49. No one batted an eye. However, the price has climbed to $12.49 for that same hearty meal—a $5.00 increase! It’s a stark difference from what it was ten years ago.

Small Icee (Burger King)

Small Icee (Burger King)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/man-holding-frozen-drink/386473423)
  • 2014 Price: $1.09
  • 2024 Price: $2.19
  • Difference: +$1.10
  • Inflation: 101%
     

A small Icee from Burger King used to be a cool refreshment at just $1.09. But as of 2024, you’re forking out $2.19 for that same icy treat—that’s a 101% inflation rate. It should be illegal.
 

Whopper Meal (Burger King)

Whopper Meal (Burger King)
user Siqbal, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Burger_King_Whopper_Combo.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $5.79
  • 2024 Price: $9.99
  • Difference: +$4.20
  • Inflation: 73%

The iconic Whopper Meal from Burger King was a satisfying choice at $5.79 a decade ago. Today, you’re out $9.99 for that same meal—a $4.20 increase. Not quite as satisfying these days.

Southwest Salad (Chick-fil-A)

Southwest Salad (Chick-fil-A)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/southwest-salad-with-tomatoes-beans-corn-chiken-cheese-and-avacados-with-a-side-of-ranch/399598909)
  • 2014 Price: $5.69
  • 2024 Price: $9.69
  • Difference: +$4.00
  • Inflation: 70%

Enjoying a Southwest Salad from Chick-fil-A was a feel-good choice priced at $5.69 in 2014. Now you’re facing a $4.00 increase. So much for the feel-good decision it used to be.
 

Grilled Nuggets Kids Meal (Chick-fil-A)

Grilled Nuggets Kids Meal (Chick-fil-A)
Ser Amantio di Nicolao, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chick-fil-A_chicken_strips,_waffle_fries,_and_ketchup_packets.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $3.99
  • 2024 Price: $6.45
  • Difference: +$2.46
  • Inflation: 62%

Back in 2014, treating your child to a Grilled Nuggets Kids Meal from Chick-fil-A was a wholesome choice at $3.99. Fast forward to today, and it’s now $6.45 for that same meal. “Kids, we have food at home!”

Small Frosty (Wendy’s)

Small Frosty (Wendy’s)
Phillip Pessar, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wendy%E2%80%99s_Orange_Dreamsicle_Frosty_(53612532181).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $0.99
  • 2024 Price: $2.09
  • Difference: +$1.10
  • Inflation: 111%
     

Once a budget-friendly delight, a small Frosty from Wendy’s could be yours for just $0.99 back in 2014. But it’s 2024, and you’re doling out $2.09—that’s a 111% inflation rate. It’s enough to make you melt… your wallet, that is.
 

Large Chili (Wendy’s)

Large Chili (Wendy’s)
RightCowLeftCoast, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wendy%27s_Chili.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $2.49
  • 2024 Price: $4.19
  • Difference: +$1.70
  • Inflation: 68%

Diving into a large chili from Wendy’s was just $2.49. But as of 2024, you’re dishing out $1.70 more for that same bowl. It’s a 68% inflation rate that might leave your stomach full, but your wallet feeling a little empty.
 

Bread Bowl of Soup (Panera)

Bread Bowl of Soup (Panera)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/new-england-clam-chowder-in-a-bread-bowl/181850992?prev_url=detail)
  • 2014 Price: $4.99
  • 2024 Price: $9.19
  • Difference: +$4.20
  • Inflation: 84%

Ah, the comforting warmth of a Bread Bowl of Soup from Panera, priced at just $4.99 in 2014. But a decade later, that same cozy delight will cost you $9.19—a hefty $4.20 increase. Even comfort comes at a cost these days.

Frontega Chicken Sandwich (Panera)

Frontega Chicken Sandwich (Panera)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/vegan-sandwich-with-peppers-and-lettuce-inside-the-sliced-bread-with-the-grill-marks-of-roast/444841264)
  • 2014 Price: $7.49
  • 2024 Price: $12.19
  • Difference: +$4.70
  • Inflation: 63%

Once a go-to lunchtime favorite, the Frontega Chicken Sandwich from Panera could be savored for just $7.49 in 2014. The price has surged to $12.19 in 2024—a $4.70 increase. It’s a hefty price to pay for a sandwich that used to be an affordable treat.
 

6 Inch Black Forest Ham (Subway)

6 Inch Black Forest Ham (Subway)
SoHome Jacaranda Lilau, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Subway_6-inch_Ham_Submarine_Sandwich.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $3.50
  • 2024 Price: $5.25
  • Difference: +$1.75
  • Inflation: 50%

Even your go-to sandwich spot isn’t immune to the rising costs of living. Back in 2014, sinking your teeth into a 6-inch Black Forest Ham sub from Subway was just $3.50. However, it’s 2024, and you’re paying $5.25 for that same sandwich—a $1.75 increase.

Footlong Philly Cheesesteak (Subway)

Footlong Philly Cheesesteak (Subway)
(Image via Adobe)(https://stock.adobe.com/images/delicious-philadelphia-cheesestreak/238056214)
  • 2014 Price: $8.25
  • 2024 Price: $11.89
  • Difference: +$3.64
  • Inflation: 44%

A go-to choice for a hearty lunch, Subway’s Footlong Philly Cheesesteak could be yours for $8.25 back in 2014. Expect to pay $11.89 for that same savory sandwich today—a $3.64 increase.
 

Cake Pop (Starbucks)

Cake Pop (Starbucks)
Rachel Kramer Bussel from New York City, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Starbucks_Cake_Pops.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.50
  • 2024 Price: $2.95
  • Difference: +$1.45
  • Inflation: 97%

A popular little indulgence at Starbucks, a Cake Pop was yours for just $1.50 back in 2014. However, you’re now spending $2.95 for that same tiny treat—that’s a 97% inflation rate. Our wallets crave a better deal.
 

Bagel (Starbucks)

Bagel (Starbucks)
Wagner Tamanaha from Sao Paulo, Brazil, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chicago_(9990559143).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.25
  • 2024 Price: $2.25
  • Difference: +$1.00
  • Inflation: 80%

Once a quick and affordable breakfast option, a bagel from Starbucks was just $1.25 in 2014. However, in 2024, you’re out $2.25 for that same morning pick-me-up—an 80% inflation rate. We just want something sustainable!
 

Quarter Pounder with Cheese Meal (McDonald’s)

Quarter Pounder with Cheese Meal (McDonald’s)
www.snack-nieuws.nl, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:McDonald%27s_Quarter_Pounder_met_Franse_friet_(38510344084).jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $5.39
  • 2024 Price: $11.99
  • Difference: +$6.60
  • Inflation: 122%
     

Treating yourself to a Quarter Pounder with Cheese Meal at McDonald’s would set you back $5.39 a few years ago. These days you’re looking at a price tag of $11.99. You’re paying $6.60 more! Time to dip into your savings. 

Medium Fries (McDonald’s)

Medium Fries (McDonald’s)
TeaLaiumens, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HK_Kln_Bay_Telford_Plaza_McDonalds_Restaurant_food_French_fries_Nov-2014_LG2.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.59
  • 2024 Price: $3.79
  • Difference: +$2.20
  • Inflation: 138%
     

A decade ago, you could satisfy your fry cravings with a medium fry for just $1.59. Now you’re paying $3.79 for the crispy goodness—that’s a hefty $2.20 increase and a 138% inflation surge. For fries. The insanity.
 

McDouble (McDonald’s)

McDouble (McDonald’s)
TheDapperDan, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:McDonald%27s_McDouble.jpg)
  • 2014 Price: $1.19
  • 2024 Price: $3.19
  • Difference: +$2.00
  • Inflation: 168%
     

A McDouble used to be an affordable $1.19, but these days you’re dishing out $3.19 for the same burger. You could’ve bought three for that kind of price back in the day!
 

McChicken (McDonald’s)

McChicken (McDonald’s)
"311-365 McDonalds McChicken"/Elsie Hui/CC by 2.0/Flickr(https://www.flickr.com/photos/elsiehui/12669462674/)
  • 2014 Price: $1.00
  • 2024 Price: $2.99
  • Difference: +$1.99
  • Inflation: 199%
     

Back in 2014, you could snag a McChicken from Mickey D’s for just a buck. Fast-forward to 2024, and you’re shelling out $2.99 for the same sandwich—a whopping 199% jump! So much for the Dollar Menu. 
 

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