News Summary
A recent WalletHub study reveals that Cleveland, Ohio, has the highest burden of fast food spending in the United States, with residents spending 0.68% of their median monthly income on fast food. This trend highlights the economic pressures faced by lower-income consumers, who are increasingly cutting back on fast food. The study ranks other cities like Detroit and Newark as significant fast food spenders, while Fremont, California, leads as the city with the lowest expenditure relative to income. The findings underline a broader narrative about economic conditions affecting consumer behavior.
Cleveland, Ohio has been identified as the city in the United States with the highest burden of fast food spending, according to a recent study by WalletHub. The research, which analyzed the spending habits of residents in 100 of America’s largest cities, reveals that Cleveland residents spend a significant 0.68% of their median monthly household income on fast food options.
The study adjusted fast food spending figures based on the median monthly incomes of various cities, revealing that while prices for fast food items such as hamburgers, pizza, and chicken sandwiches are comparable to the national average, Cleveland’s lower median income of $39,187 plays a crucial role in this ranking. In contrast, Detroit, Michigan, follows closely behind at 0.67% of their take-home pay spent on fast food.
The WalletHub analysis unveiled findings that reflect a broader trend in consumer spending and economic pressures across the nation. More affluent cities generally report higher total spending on fast food, yet they still manage to spend less relative to their incomes compared to lower-income regions. For instance, residents of more expensive cities spend over three times more on fast food relative to their income than those in cities with lower living costs.
Aside from Cleveland and Detroit, the top ten cities for fast food spending as a percentage of income include:
- 3. Newark, New Jersey: 0.62%
- 4. Baltimore, Maryland: 0.61%
- 5. Birmingham, Alabama: 0.60%
- 6. Hialeah, Florida: 0.59%
- 7. Buffalo, New York: 0.57%
- 8. Milwaukee, Wisconsin: 0.56%
- 9. Toledo, Ohio: 0.56%
- 10. Miami, Florida: 0.53%
Conversely, the city with the lowest fast food spending burden is Fremont, California, where residents allocate only 0.20% of their median income towards fast food. Austin and Plano, Texas, follow closely with expenditures of 0.23% and 0.24% respectively.
Recent patterns in fast food consumption indicate that many lower-income customers are cutting back, prompting major fast food chains to report declining spending among this demographic. Executives at McDonald’s have noticed a shift as many customers have begun skipping meals, particularly breakfast, which is often considered the most critical meal of the day, reflecting ongoing financial strain.
This fast food spending trend can be seen as part of a larger narrative about economic conditions affecting consumers across different regions. In numerous cities, the cost of fast food has risen significantly, leading experts to advise consumers to rethink their fast food habits. WalletHub researcher Chip Lupo highlighted that the rising prices within this industry could compel individuals to explore less expensive food options.
Additionally, cities such as Fort Wayne, Indiana, while ranked 26th in terms of fast food spending, still reinforce the idea that affordable meals are not as budget-friendly as they once might have seemed. The study utilized data current as of August 26, 2025, compiled from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Council for Community and Economic Research.
Overall, the WalletHub study illustrates the impact of economic factors on fast food consumption across diverse American cities, with Cleveland standing out due to its unique combination of high fast food spending relative to low income.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Newsweek: Fast Food Spending by City
- Wikipedia: Fast Food
- CW33: Consumers Struggle with Rising Fast Food Prices
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Economics
- Cleveland.com: Ohio-based Fast Food Chain Testing New Item
- Google Search: Fast Food Spending Trends
- Cleveland.com: Fast Food Chain Plans New Locations
- Google Search: Fast Food Industry Statistics
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
