Fast Food Prices Surge, Now Seen as Luxury by Most Americans

Fast food prices have surged by 4.8% since last year and 47% since 2014, leading 78% of Americans to view it as a luxury, according to a LendingTree survey. Rising costs have prompted 62% of consumers to eat less fast food, with many opting to cook at home instead. Major chains like McDonald's and Wendy's are introducing value-oriented deals to attract customers back amid declining business.