I don’t know whether to see this as a good thing or a bad thing – whether it’s actually a good sign for all of us, or a sign of a problematic trend.
It would be one thing if this was just a New Jersey story, but it’s not. It’s all part of a national trend that has to do with one of America’s most popular convenience meals: fast food. But make no mistake, this study points to a trend happening right now in the great Garden State.
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But before we dive into the official survey, let’s conduct our own research to see how New Jersey compares (and feel free to share why in the comments).
Fast food becomes a luxury
A recent Lending Tree survey found that 80% of people consider fast food a luxury rather than a convenient meal. Read that again: 80% of Americans consider eating fast food a luxury, and the main reason is cost.
Most Americans now feel that fast food has become so expensive that it’s no longer worth buying on a regular basis, and, of course, New Jersey is no exception (see Dino Flammia’s article on costs in the Garden State here ).
But while this seems like a bad thing, is there a positive? Let’s look at both the pros and cons of rising fast food prices.
Bad Fast Food in New Jersey – Canva
Bad Fast Food in New Jersey – Canva
Cons
According to Lending Tree, “Three in four Americans typically eat fast food at least once a week, but the majority (62%) say they eat fast food less often because of rising prices.” That means fewer customers at fast food restaurants, which could force prices to rise even higher to make up the difference.
It’s also why 80% of people overall consider fast food a luxury rather than a necessity: what was once an affordable way to get through the week is no longer an option. This is especially true for those living paycheck to paycheck.
Whether rising prices are the result of inflation or corporate greed, one thing is certain: fast food should never be considered a luxury, but the current situation is unfortunate.
Fast food chain offers free tacos to small catches
ThinkStock
Strong Points
Conversely, the high cost of fast food may also lead to health benefits. Could Americans now be eating healthier as a result of being shocked by the high prices at drive-thru restaurants? And does this also apply to New Jersey?
According to the survey, “3 in 4 Americans believe eating at home is cheaper than eating fast food,” but that same group also believes that shouldn’t be the case: fast food should always be the more affordable option, not the cheaper option.
But having said that, it’s easy to see the upside to this: If higher prices force people to cook more at home and eat better meals, then that’s a good thing. A small silver lining in a less than ideal situation.
Fast Food Examples – Canva
Fast Food Examples – Canva
The bigger picture
When asked about their typical inexpensive meal, 56% said they prefer to cook meals at home, followed by 11% who choose pre-prepared meals from the grocery store and just 5% who choose to go out to a restaurant.
The remaining group (28%) still prefer fast food despite rising prices. Overall, 67% say fast food should be cheaper than eating at home, not the other way around.
Looking at generations, the older people are, the more likely they are to choose to eat at home over fast food. Gen Z still dominates the fast food preference group, but only at 39%.
Fast Food / Drive-Thru / New Jersey / Question Mark
Canva
The turning point of “transition”
If higher prices weren’t enough to scare customers away, the feeling of obligation to tip may be what will: “44% of respondents said they had been asked for a tip at a fast-food restaurant in the past six months,” according to the survey.
It’s okay to tip at casual restaurants, but when it comes to fast food, most customers feel it’s excessive, especially as prices continue to rise (you can read the full Lending Tree study here).
Lowest Rated Fast Food Restaurants in New Jersey – 2024
We analyzed 250 of the most popular fast-food restaurants in America to see how each one stacks up against its competitors.
Gallery credit: Mike Brant
WATCH: World-famous pork roll contest returns to Trenton, NJ
The latest addition to the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s 2024 collection of humorous safety messages
The New Jersey Department of Transportation continued its series of humorous seasonal safety messages on more than 200 electronic billboards across New Jersey.
Gallery credit: Dan Alexander
Next Time: World Famous Pork Roll Contest Returns to Trenton, NJ
The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of Mike Brant, Sunday Morning Host and Content Contributor for New Jersey 101.5. All opinions expressed are his own.
