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McDonald's Price Hikes Drive Low-Income Shoppers Away

11/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

McDonald's is losing traffic from low-income consumers as prices rise.
From 2019 to 2024, the average cost of menu items climbed about 40%, with the Big Mac up from $4.39 to $5.29.
Tariffs and stagnant wages are creating economic pressures that disproportionately affect lower-income households.
Inflation sustains a two-tier economy, with wealthier customers thriving while lower-income shoppers pull back, and value deals not fully resonating.

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Story summary

McDonald's is losing traffic from low-income consumers as prices rise.
From 2019 to 2024, the average cost of menu items climbed about 40%, with the Big Mac up from $4.39 to $5.29.
Tariffs and stagnant wages are creating economic pressures that disproportionately affect lower-income households.
Inflation sustains a two-tier economy, with wealthier customers thriving while lower-income shoppers pull back, and value deals not fully resonating.