Remember when a quick McDonald’s run meant a cheap, filling meal? Those days might be fading fast. With inflation driving up prices everywhere, even fast food—once the go-to for budget-friendly bites—is getting painfully expensive.
Take Christopher Olive’s recent experience. He posted his McDonald’s receipt on TikTok, and people couldn’t believe their eyes. His order? A Smoky Double Quarter Pounder BLT, large fries, and a Sprite—nothing extravagant. Yet, his total came to a jaw-dropping $16.10.
The reactions were mixed. Some were outraged, saying prices like these make fast food feel like a luxury. Others pointed out that rising costs—from ingredients to wages—are hitting every part of the food industry. A few even defended McDonald’s, suggesting that using the app or hunting for deals could still save money.
But the bigger question remains: Is fast food still the wallet-friendly option it used to be? For many Americans struggling with rising costs, the answer seems to be a disappointing “no.”
