"A quick look through McDonald's prices from 2016 is making us long for a not-too-distant past that was easier on our pocketbooks. When we tried every McDonald's burger and named the Quarter Pounder with Cheese the champion, we weren't deterred by its $7.99 price tag. But that burger in 2016? It cost just $4.85. And if you think that's a deal, you could grab it with medium fries and a drink for $7.41."
"When we factor in inflation, including the markedly higher rates since 2021, the burger that cost $4.85 in 2016 should only cost $6.59 today, meaning inflation is not the only culprit."
McDonald's menu prices have dramatically increased over the past decade. A Big Mac Extra Value Meal that cost less than $8 in 2016 now retails for $11.99, representing a 50% price increase. The Quarter Pounder with Cheese exemplifies this trend, rising from $4.85 in 2016 to significantly higher prices today. While inflation accounts for some price growth, with expected increases of 1-4% annually since 2000, the actual price increases exceed what inflation alone would predict. When accounting for inflation rates, the Quarter Pounder should cost approximately $6.59 today rather than its current price, indicating that factors beyond inflation have contributed substantially to McDonald's price increases.
Read at Tasting Table
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