In this article, we discuss the 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption. If you want to read about some more US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption, go directly to 5 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption.
According to findings from Precedence Research, the global fast-food industry was valued at approximately $700 billion in 2022. Projections suggest that the sector is set to maintain steady growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.70% from 2023 to 2032, potentially reaching a valuation of $1 trillion by the conclusion of the forecasted period. Additionally, the global fast-food restaurant industry achieved a figure of $978.4 billion in 2023.
The expansion of globalized distribution networks has facilitated the establishment of fast-food franchises in foreign countries. Through this process, these companies adapt and innovate their product offerings to cater to diverse markets, expanding their customer outreach.
In the dynamic and ever-evolving tapestry of American dietary preferences, the omnipresence of fast food has solidified its role as a defining element, shaping the eating habits of a considerable segment of the population. A recent in-depth report released by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention peels back the layers of this culinary phenomenon, exposing the deep-rooted love affair between Americans and fast food. Astonishingly, the findings reveal that approximately one-third of the nation’s adults, representing a staggering 37%, partake in fast food on a daily basis. This statistical revelation underscores not just a casual dalliance but a habitual reliance on the convenience and allure of quick-service meals by a substantial portion of the population, amounting to about 84.8 million adults, showcasing the widespread impact of fast food on shaping dietary patterns across the United States.
Millennials have notably become the generation most inclined toward frequenting fast-food establishments, with a substantial 54% reporting indulging in these convenient meals multiple times a week. A striking 23% of millennials take their fast-food habit a step further, making it a daily occurrence in their lives. Delving into the financial aspect of this trend, the average person allocates a monthly budget of $148 to satisfy their fast-food cravings, showcasing the economic impact of this dining preference. A significant 37% of adults across the nation found themselves reaching for fast-food options on any given day in 2020. This statistic emphasizes the widespread influence of quick-service meals and their integration into daily life.
The younger demographic, particularly children and adolescents aged 2 to 19, also plays a substantial role in the fast-food phenomenon. Approximately 34% of this age group in the United States engage in fast-food consumption each day, underscoring the enduring appeal of these easily accessible and often enticing meals among the younger generation. In the context of young group of people who are also workers at fast-food restaurants, there’s good news for Fast-food workers in California, who will see their minimum wage increasing to $20 per hour from next month, April, 2024. This wage boost is the result of an agreement between the restaurant industry and labor groups regarding legislation in the state.
Going back to our topic, we see Central and Southern states emerging as dominant players in this fast-food landscape, with Alabama claiming the number one spot in fast-food restaurant concentration. The Southern imprint on fast-food culture is palpable, with eight out of the top ten states with the highest number of fast-food restaurants per capita nestled in these regions. Conversely, the Northeastern states, led by Vermont, New Jersey, and New York, stand out for having the fewest fast-food restaurants per capita, showcasing a regional diversity in dietary preferences and culinary landscapes.
Furthermore, fast-food prices surged by approximately 13% nationwide from 2021 to 2022, as reported by PriceListo data. Additionally, fast food is experiencing an uptick in popularity, with sales increasing by 5.75% in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in the previous year, based on an analysis of company earnings reports for 43 major restaurant chains conducted by the Washington Post in August. Subway, McDonald’s, Dunkin, Starbucks and Pizza hut are some of the most popular names that arise in Americans’ minds when it comes down to a quick bite.
Venturing into the competitive arena of fast-food giants, let us look at the key players in both, the burger and chicken segments. In the burger category, McDonald’s reigns supreme, solidifying its status as the preeminent fast-food giant, closely trailed by Wendy’s (NASDAQ:WEN), Burger King, and Sonic. In the realm of chicken-based delights, Chick-Fil-A emerges as the undisputed leader, asserting its dominance ahead of KFC, Popeye’s, Raising Cane’s, and Wingstop (NASDAQ:WING), boasting an impressive total of 2,732 units in 2023. During the second quarter of 2023, there was an average sales growth of 5.75 percent for fast-food and quick-service establishments such as McDonald’s and Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) compared to the corresponding quarter in the previous year. Meanwhile Chick-fil-A recorded U.S. systemwide sales of $18.814 billion in the year 2022.
As discussed above, some of the companies dominating this industry are McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD), KFC, owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE:YUM), and Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NYSE:DPZ).
McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD)
McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD), a leading global fast-food chain, operates in more than 100 countries with a customer base exceeding 69 million.
In the twelve months ending December 31, 2023, McDonald’s recorded revenue of $25.49 billion, showing a year-over-year growth rate of 9.97%. For the quarter ending December 31, 2023, the company’s revenue amounted to $6.41 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 8.09%.
Earlier, in January 2024, McDonald’s said it was seeing a “meaningful” hit to business, as customers in the Middle East and elsewhere boycott the firm for its perceived support of Israel. McDonald’s also reported a rare sales miss in its-fourth quarter earnings report in February.
KFC
KFC, a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE:YUM), has been in operation since 1952. The franchise has expanded to more than 150 countries, providing a diverse menu that includes Kentucky fried chicken and various other offerings.
In the twelve months ending December 31, 2023, Yum! Brands (NYSE:YUM) reported revenue of $7.08 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 3.42%. For the quarter ending December 31, 2023, the company’s revenue was $2.04 billion, indicating a year-over-year growth of 0.84%.
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NYSE:DPZ)
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NYSE:DPZ), operates as a pizza company in the United States and internationally through its subsidiaries. The company offers pizzas under the Domino’s brand name through both company-owned and franchised stores. Additionally, Domino’s provides a variety of menu items including oven-baked sandwiches, pastas, boneless chicken, and chicken wings.
In the twelve months ending December 31, 2023, Domino’s Pizza reported revenue of $4.48 billion, showing a decrease of -1.27% year-over-year. For the quarter ending December 31, 2023, the company’s revenue was $1.40 billion, indicating a modest year-over-year growth of 0.77%.
In November 2023, Domino’s unveiled an innovative new service with the introduction of a delivery bike that comes equipped with a built-in pizza oven and shock absorbers. This groundbreaking technology showcases Domino’s commitment to revolutionizing the future of food delivery.
This comprehensive analysis transcends mere statistics, offering a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted relationship between Americans and fast food. It not only provides insights into consumption patterns but also unveils regional preferences and illuminates the competitive landscape of renowned restaurants offering quick bites. As fast food continues to weave its way into the fabric of American dining culture, this article about 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption serves as a compelling narrative, capturing the intricacies of a culinary phenomenon that has become an integral part of the nation’s lifestyle.
A chef in a kitchen preparing a fast food meal of chicken, pizza and burgers.
Methodology
To curate the list of 30 US cities that eat the most fast food, we started with researching sources such as U.S. News, The Washington Post, EatThis, Apartment Guide, Fox Business, and Business Insider to identify the top cities in the U.S. for fast food, we compiled a list for evaluation. By utilizing LawnStarter’s Access Metric, which factors in Fast Food Establishments per Square Mile, Fasties Award-Winning Locations per Square Mile, and the Number of Food Delivery Services, we ranked these cities.
This proxy ranking goes from least consumption to most consumption, showcasing cities based on their fast-food consumption levels from lowest to highest i.e. the 30th city on our list is also ranked 30th on LawnStarter’s Access Metric. This metric was chosen for its claimed capacity to provide insights into restaurant density within specific regions, aligning with demand levels and consumption patterns of fast food in those areas. Based on this, we present to you 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption.
By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.
30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption
30. Salinas, CA
At the start of our list of 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption is Salinas. In Salinas, the convenience and affordability of fast food have made it a popular choice among residents on-the-go. Among the myriad of options, Jack in the Box (NASDAQ:JACK) stands out as a favourite fast-food destination, serving up a variety of burgers, tacos, and late-night munchies to satisfy Salinas’ cravings.
29. Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale boasts a vibrant fast-food culture, catering to the city’s diverse tastes and busy lifestyles. Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG) holds a prominent spot as Sunnyvale’s go-to fast-food joint, offering fresh and customizable burritos, bowls, and salads that keep locals coming back for more.
28. Long Beach, CA
Long Beach has a thriving culture of fast-food consumption, with a wide array of options to satisfy residents’ cravings for quick and tasty meals. Among the city’s favourite fast-food spots, In-N-Out Burger reigns supreme, serving up delicious burgers, fries, and shakes that draw long lines of devoted customers.
27. Baltimore, MD
In the bustling metropolis of Baltimore, the love for fast food runs deep, mirroring national trends with a significant portion of residents embracing the convenience and flavours of quick-service meals. The city’s diverse culinary scene is punctuated by a robust appetite for fast food, where locals often find solace in familiar and easily accessible options. Among the array of choices, one fast-food heavyweight that stands out in Baltimore is Chick-Fil-A, capturing the hearts and taste buds of many with its beloved chicken-based menu offerings.
26. Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a bustling hub of fast-food consumption, reflecting the city’s on-the-go lifestyle and diverse culinary preferences. In-N-Out Burger holds a special place in Angelenos’ hearts, with its iconic burgers and secret menu items drawing loyal fans from all corners of the city.
25. Tempe, AZ
Twenty fifth on our list of 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption is Tempe. Tempe has a prominent fast-food culture, offering residents a variety of convenient dining options. Among the city’s popular fast-food choices, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers stands out as a go-to spot, known for its crispy chicken tenders and signature sauce that keep patrons coming back for more.
24. Torrance, CA
In Torrance, the vibrant city in Southern California, fast food culture is embraced with gusto, reflecting the Golden State’s affinity for quick and flavourful dining options. Among the plethora of choices, In-N-Out Burger holds a special place in the hearts of Torrance residents, with its iconic burgers and shakes reigning supreme as the city’s most popular fast-food destination.
23. Hialeah, FL
Hialeah, known for its love of quick and tasty eats, boasts a rich fast-food culture that caters to the city’s on-the-go lifestyle. Pollo Tropical stands out as a beloved fast-food destination, serving up flavourful Caribbean-inspired dishes that have earned it a loyal following among Hialeah residents.
22. Syracuse, NY
In Syracuse, the spirited city in upstate New York, fast-food fervour is alive and well, as locals appreciate the convenience of quick bites amidst their bustling lives. Dominating the fast-food scene in Syracuse is the beloved Wegmans, a regional favourite renowned for its diverse and delicious offerings, making it the go-to destination for residents seeking a satisfying and speedy meal.
21. Santa Ana, CA
Santa Ana thrives on its fast-food scene, offering a range of convenient options for its bustling population. One standout favourite among locals is El Pollo Loco (NASDAQ:LOCO), renowned for its flame-grilled chicken and zesty Mexican-inspired flavours that keep Santa Ana residents coming back for more.
20. Atlanta, GA
In Atlanta, a city known for its dynamic culture and Southern hospitality, fast-food cravings find a warm welcome among residents on the go. In Atlanta, there are 11.3 restaurants for every 10,000 residents, showcasing a vibrant dining scene for the local population to indulge in a variety of culinary delights. Boasting a significant presence in the heart of Atlanta’s fast-food scene is Chick-Fil-A, celebrated for its signature chicken sandwiches and a commitment to excellent service.
19. Dallas, TX
Dallas is at nineteenth on our list of 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption. Dallas embraces the quick and flavourful allure of fast food, with a taste for variety that mirrors the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Among the bustling array of options, In-N-Out Burger holds a special place in Dallasites’ hearts, dishing out delectable burgers and freshly-cut fries with an undeniable Texas flair.
18. Richmond, VA
In Richmond, the lure of quick and convenient fast food is ever-present. Fast-food giants dot the cityscape, but perhaps none more fervently than Chick-fil-A. With its signature sandwiches and unwavering popularity, this chain reigns supreme in the hearts – and stomachs – of Richmond’s fast-food aficionados.
17. Tampa, FL
In Tampa, where the Gulf breeze meets vibrant urban life, fast-food culture thrives as locals embrace convenient dining options. Standing out in the city’s fast-food landscape is the ever-popular Publix Deli, a grocery store eatery beloved for its delectable subs and sandwiches, symbolizing Tampa’s unique blend of convenience and flavour in the fast-food realm.
16. Pittsburgh, PA
In Pittsburgh, a city steeped in industrial history and modern innovation, the fast-food scene resonates with a blend of tradition and contemporary taste. Primanti Brothers, an iconic establishment renowned for its signature sandwiches piled high with fries and coleslaw, stands as Pittsburgh’s beloved fast-food gem, capturing the essence of local flavour and culinary innovation.
15. Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is at number fifteen on our list of 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption. Sacramento, with its vibrant culture and agricultural richness, embraces the convenience of fast food, and at the forefront is In-N-Out Burger. The beloved chain, celebrated for its fresh and made-to-order offerings, has become synonymous with Sacramento’s fast-food scene, drawing locals and visitors alike with its iconic burgers and secret menu delights.
14. Las Vegas, NV
In the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, where excitement and convenience go hand in hand, fast food plays a central role in satisfying the city’s on-the-go lifestyle. Las Vegas features a dining scene with 13.1 restaurants for every 10,000 residents, offering a wide array of culinary options for its population. Shake Shack (NYSE:SHAK), with its modern take on classic burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and hand-spun shakes, stands out as a popular fast-food destination, offering a flavourful retreat for both locals and visitors in the heart of the entertainment capital.
13. Rochester, NY
In the heart of upstate New York, Rochester boasts a thriving fast-food culture, and Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex serves as a local favourite. Known for its Garbage Plate—a uniquely Rochester dish featuring a medley of meats, potatoes, and sauces—Bill Gray’s captures the city’s appetite for distinctive and hearty fast-food offerings.
12. Fort Lauderdale, FL
In Fort Lauderdale, where sun-soaked beaches meet a lively urban atmosphere, the fast-food scene caters to the city’s diverse and active population. With its coastal charm and seafood delights, the iconic fast-food choice is often Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, renowned for its flavourful coal-fired pizzas and Italian-American specialties, adding a distinctive touch to Fort Lauderdale’s culinary landscape and makes it number twelve on our list of US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption.
11. Philadelphia, PA
In the historic city of Philadelphia, fast-food cravings find a home amidst the rich tapestry of cultural and culinary influences. A standout in the city’s fast-food repertoire is Wawa, a beloved convenience store chain offering a variety of freshly prepared hoagies, coffee, and snacks. Wawa’s widespread popularity embodies the local penchant for delicious, on-the-go fare in the City of Brotherly Love.
10. San Francisco, CA
Tenth on our list of 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption is San Francisco. Amidst the tech innovation and eclectic neighbourhoods of San Francisco, fast-food enthusiasts have a diverse array of options to choose from. In San Francisco, the impact of inflation has led to fast food prices soaring to the point where burger meals now exceed $20, but fast-food consumption still remains high. One notable choice is In-N-Out Burger, capturing the city’s attention with its fresh ingredients and classic menu items. As a Californian staple, In-N-Out embodies San Francisco’s appreciation for quality, quick-service meals in a city that values both culinary innovation and simplicity.
9. Chicago, IL
In the dynamic city of Chicago, where architectural wonders meet a rich cultural heritage, the fast-food scene reflects the city’s diverse tastes. Portillo’s (NASDAQ:PTLO), an iconic chain known for its Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, stands as a local favourite. Embracing the city’s culinary traditions, Portillo’s has become synonymous with fast-food indulgence in the Windy City, blending classic flavours with the fast-paced lifestyle of Chicagoans.
8. Jersey City, NJ
Jersey City is on number eight on our list of US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption. In the vibrant cityscape of Jersey City, just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, fast-food options cater to the diverse and dynamic community. One standout in this culinary mosaic is White Mana, an iconic diner-style establishment known for its classic sliders and nostalgic charm. As a local favourite, White Mana encapsulates the city’s rich history and evolving palate, providing a timeless and satisfying fast-food experience for residents and visitors alike in Jersey City.
7. Alexandria, VA
Nestled along the Potomac River, Alexandria, Virginia, combines historic charm with a thriving culinary scene. Among its fast-food offerings, the Old Town staple, Five Guys, has garnered a loyal following. Renowned for its customizable burgers and hand-cut fries, Five Guys reflects Alexandria’s appreciation for quality ingredients and a laid-back yet flavourful approach to fast-food dining in this picturesque and historic city.
6. Washington, D.C.
Sixth on our list of US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption, is Washington. In the political and cultural hub of Washington, D.C., the fast-food scene mirrors the city’s diverse population and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Among the notable choices is &pizza, a homegrown fast-casual brand offering customizable pizzas with fresh, high-quality ingredients. As a symbol of Washington’s commitment to innovation and individuality, &pizza provides a unique and flavourful option in the city’s fast-food repertoire, catering to the tastes of both locals and the numerous visitors exploring the nation’s capital.
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Disclosure: None. 30 US Cities with the Highest Fast-Food Consumption is originally published on Insider Monkey.