Discover the State Where Fast Food Prices Are Skyrocketing: Why It’s More Expensive Than Ever!

Fast food is convenient, but it’s becoming pricier. What once was an affordable meal option can now take a noticeable bite out of your budget.

A recent study from WalletHub highlights which states allocate the largest portion of their income to fast food expenses. Analysts compared prices of burgers, pizza, and chicken sandwiches across the country and looked at how these costs match with the local median income.

“Where you live significantly affects what you pay for fast food,” notes Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst. He explains that in the costliest states, fast food can be 1.6 times more expensive compared to cheaper states, relative to household income.

In Mississippi, residents face the highest burden. Here, buying a burger, a small pizza, and a chicken sandwich eats up about 0.47% of the average monthly income. This is particularly striking since Mississippi has the lowest median household income at $54,915.

Despite having some of the lowest fast food prices, the low income means that even affordable meals take up a larger slice of paychecks.

New Mexico comes in second for fast food costs relative to income. Similar purchases will also cost about 0.47% of what residents earn monthly. With a median income of $62,125, the costs leave little room for savings.

Kentucky ranks third on the list. Here, one burger, a pizza, and a fried chicken sandwich will set back residents by 0.46% of their median monthly income, which is $62,417. Notably, fried chicken is a favorite in the area, adding to the significance of these costs.

New York, in 23rd place, shows that fast food is relatively cheaper compared to the average income, costing 0.37% of monthly earnings.

On the flip side, states like Connecticut, New Jersey, and Massachusetts have less strain on their budgets and rank lowest in fast food spending.

To save on fast food, WalletHub suggests a few tips. Use coupons from the restaurant’s app, budget fast food spending last, avoid delivery fees, join loyalty programs, keep meals simple, and eat out less often. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal without breaking the bank.

Here’s a quick look at the top 10 states where residents spend the most on fast food relative to their income:

1. Mississippi
2. New Mexico
3. Kentucky
4. Arkansas
5. West Virginia
6. Louisiana
7. Alabama
8. Montana
9. Oklahoma
10. Vermont

As fast food prices fluctuate, understanding where you live can help you manage your budget better. With rising food costs impacting many, staying informed is key to making smart choices.

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