Gone are the days of dollar menus and $5 fill-ups. Fast food, once the savior of tight budgets, is now adding strain to wallets. Inflation has pushed prices up across the board, and even McDonald’s—long considered the king of affordable meals—isn’t immune.
A viral TikTok from Christopher Olive showed just how bad it’s gotten. His simple order—a Double Quarter Pounder BLT, large fries, and a drink—cost him over $16. For a single meal! The internet erupted. Some blamed corporate greed, while others argued that higher wages and supply chain issues are driving up costs.
A few savvy commenters shared tips, like using McDonald’s app for discounts or sticking to value-menu items. But for many, the real shock wasn’t just the price—it was the realization that fast food isn’t the cheap escape it once was.
With prices climbing and paychecks stretching thinner, that quick drive-thru stop might not be the bargain it used to be.
