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Fast-Food Prices Surge 60%, Families Struggle to Afford

11/21/2025

26 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fast-food prices have risen sharply over the past decade, with McChicken costing $1 in 2014 and about $3 today.
A Big Mac combo now totals about $11.99, showing broad menu price increases.
Research shows fast-food prices rose about 60%, nearly double the 31% inflation.
The higher costs have reduced access for families and signal a broken trust in affordability.

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Story summary

Fast-food prices have risen sharply over the past decade, with McChicken costing $1 in 2014 and about $3 today.
A Big Mac combo now totals about $11.99, showing broad menu price increases.
Research shows fast-food prices rose about 60%, nearly double the 31% inflation.
The higher costs have reduced access for families and signal a broken trust in affordability.