The United States is known as the home of fast food. But in this competitive market, what kind of fast food do consumers order the most? During a 2023 survey, pizza emerged as the most frequently ordered fast food in the U.S., with 29 percent of respondents indicating it as their top choice. Comparatively, only five percent of participants reported TexMex as their most ordered type of fast food. How often do U.S. consumers order pizza? With more than 80 thousand pizza restaurants in the U.S. consumers are spoiled for choice. During a 2023 survey, 28 percent of U.S. consumers said that they ordered fast food pizza once a week, whilst 10 percent reported ordering pizza more than once a week. Meanwhile, the highest share of respondents, 31 percent, said they ordered pizza once a month and once every couple of weeks, respectively. What is the leading quick service restaurant in the U.S.? The market size of the quick service restaurant (QSR) industry in the United States reached 382 billion U.S. dollars in 2022. Within this thriving market, McDonald's emerged as the leader, generating the highest systemwide sales of any QSR chain. Following closely behind, Starbucks secured second place with just under half of McDonald's total sales. Meanwhile, Chick-fil-A claimed the third spot in the ranking.

The Allegheny County Health Department has generated this list of fast food restaurants by exporting all chain restaurants without an alcohol permit from the County’s Fee and Permit System. A chain restaurant defined by the County is any restaurant that has more than one location in the County. Chain restaurants capture both local and national chains (including locally owned national chains) so long as there is one or more establishments in operation within the County.

Expert industry market research on the Fast Food Restaurants in the US (2005-2031). Make better business decisions, faster with IBISWorld's industry market research reports, statistics, analysis, data, trends and forecasts.

Introduction

Fast Food Industry Statistics: The fast food industry is a giant global business, serving up billions of burgers, fries, and tacos every year. Advanced technological developments and digital innovations have revolutionized the industry. The market value is expected to reach an impressive $957 billion by 2024.

This article covers essential current trends and analyzes recent insights from different perspectives to guide you effectively. But how big is it exactly? And how do people feel about it?

Let's delve into some interesting statistics to see what's cooking.

According to a survey on fast food conducted in Indonesia in February 2023, around 73 percent of respondents stated that they ate fast food once a week. In comparison, 4.2 percent of respondents said that they ate fast food more than seven times a week.

During a survey carried out in Brazil in October 2019, 73 percent of responding internet users stated they had bought food in McDonald's in the previous twelve months. During the same period, 69 percent of respondents had been Burger King's clients while around six out of ten Brazilians surveyed also reported to have consumed Subway sandwiches. Nevertheless, when asked about their plans for future fast-food consumption, all named restaurants could expect a decline in consumption intention among Brazilian online consumers. For instance, 56 percent of respondents considered to buy food in McDonald's in the future. Meanwhile, 49 and 42 percent of respondents saw themselves as potential consumers of Burger King and Subway, respectively.

This statistic shows the results of a survey conducted by Cint on the average number of times fast food from quick service restaurants was consumed per week in the United States between 2016 and 2018. In 2018, 29.42 percent of respondents in the United States stated they eat fast food less than once per week.

According to a survey conducted in 2023, roughly 32 percent of the population surveyed in Spain had visited a fast-food restaurant in the 30 days prior to taking part in the study, which represents an increase versus the previous year. Sales in the fast-food franchise industry alone amount to over two billion euros in the 2010s.

This statistic shows the most popular global fast food chains in the United States as of August 2014. During the survey, 12 percent of respondents selected Chick-Fil-A, making it the most popular fast food chain in the U.S.

In a 2013 market breakdown of fast food brands in the United States, McDonalds ranked first with a market share of 21.7 percent.

The United States fast food market reached 212.89 in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.20% between 2025 and 2034, reaching 321.24 by 2034.

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Fast Food Market Size 2025-2029

The fast food market size is forecast to increase by USD 119.6 billion at a CAGR of 3% between 2024 and 2029.

The global fast food market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the increasing online presence of vendors and advancements in delivery technology. Key factors include shifting consumer preferences toward convenience and variety, fueled by busy lifestyles, and the rise of digital platforms and food delivery services that make ordering quick and seamless.
This report provides a practical resource for businesses, detailing market size, growth forecasts through 2028, and key segments like non-vegetarian fast food, which leads due to its broad appeal and diverse offerings. It explores trends such as the growing demand for fast-casual dining options that blend speed with quality and addresses challenges like intense competition from quick-service restaurants, which pressures pricing and innovation. The analysis is tailored for strategic planning, operational adjustments, and customer engagement strategies.
For companies looking to stay competitive in the global fast food market, this report offers clear, data-driven insights into leveraging digital trends and navigating a crowded landscape, ensuring they can adapt to evolving consumer demands and market dynamics.

What will be the Size of the Fast Food Market During the Forecast Period?

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Brand loyalty remains a critical factor, with restaurants investing in advertising strategies and franchise opportunities to expand their reach. The labor market and safety regulations also influence the industry, with a focus on women's employment and industry events addressing workforce development. The industry's innovation is further shaped by the tech industry, with a growing emphasis on menu innovation, waste reduction, and the integration of healthy options. Overall, the market is characterized by its resilience and adaptability, with restaurants and delivery services continually adapting to meet changing consumer demands.

How is this Fast Food Industry segmented?

The fast food industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Non-vegetarian fast food
  Vegetarian fast food


Service Type

  Eat-in
  Take away
  Home delivery
  Others


End-User

  Quick Service Restaurants
  Fast Casual Restaurants
  Others


Geography

  North America

    Mexico
    US


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The non-vegetarian fast food segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The non-vegetarian the market experiences growth due to the demand for innovative and appetizing menu items, primarily featuring chicken, fish, seafood, and beef. Consumers seek low-calorie, high-protein options, fueling market expansion. Online ordering systems and nationwide lockdown restrictions have influenced the industry, with take-out facilities and home delivery becoming essential.

E-commerce and franchise business models cater to the convenience-driven working populations, particularly the millennial demographic. The convenience of on-the-go foods and the increasing internet penetration expand the consumer base. The fast-casual segment and novel food applications, such as Italian fillings and flavors, attract health-conscious consumers. Despite labor restraints, the industry continues to generate financial growth and income, with applications in various sectors, including tourism and travel.

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The non-vegetarian fast food segment was valued at USD 424.90 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The North American market is experiencing significant growth due to several factors. The expanding workforce and increasing urbanization have led to an increase In the number of fast food establishments, catering to the demand for convenient, on-the-go meals. Consumers' busy schedules and the affordability of fast food are driving up sales. The region's population, particularly the millennial demographic, prefers fast foods for their convenience and variety. E-commerce systems and online ordering have become increasingly popular, enabling consumers to order fro

The global fast food market size reached USD 902.1 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1,298.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.09% during 2025-2033. The increasing consumer preference for RTE food products, rising number of commercial establishments, and the growing adoption of fast food like frozen ready meals in the food service industry are some of the major factors propelling the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global fast food market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type and end user.

Expert industry market research on the Fast Food Restaurants in the US (2005-2030). Make better business decisions, faster with IBISWorld's industry market research reports, statistics, analysis, data, trends and forecasts.

Data for cities, communities, and City of Los Angeles Council Districts were generated using a small area estimation method which combined the survey data with population benchmark data (2022 population estimates for Los Angeles County) and neighborhood characteristics data (e.g., U.S. Census Bureau, 2017-2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates). This indicator is based on caregiver report. A child is considered to have weekly fast food consumption if they eat any food, including meals and snacks, from a fast food restaurant, such as McDonald’s, Taco Bell, KFC, or another similar type of place at least 1 time per week.Fast food consumption is associated with increased intake of calories, fat, and sodium, as well as with poor diet quality in children and adolescents. Poor diet has contributed to our current obesity epidemic and is a major risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and many other chronic health conditions.For more information about the Community Health Profiles Data Initiative, please see the initiative homepage.

We investigate how changes in the supply of fast food restaurants affect weight outcomes of 3 million children and 3 million pregnant women. Among ninth graders, a fast food restaurant within 0.1 miles of a school results in a 5.2 percent increase in obesity rates. Among pregnant women, a fast-food restaurant within 0.5 miles of residence results in a 1.6 percent increase in the probability of gaining over 20 kilos. The implied effects on caloric intake are one order of magnitude larger for children than for mothers, consistent with smaller travel cost for adults. Non-fast food restaurants and future fast-food restaurants are uncorrelated with weight outcomes. (JEL I12, J13, J16, L83)

Fast Food Market size is estimated to be valued at US$ 745.8 Bn in 2022 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.6%, reaching US$ 1067.3 Bn by 2030.

The global fast food market reached approximately USD 797.14 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.90% between 2025-2034, reaching a value of around USD 1286.14 Billion by 2034. The fast food sector is booming rapidly thanks to the changing of consumers' habits and behavior. The global market size is promising due to urbanisation and the desire for fast food. Yet, sustained competition is ongoing with market leaders, with the CAGR soaring up for fast food demand, who are continuing to invent new approaches in an effort to meet changing customer urges, and thus sustains the prosperity of the fast food market.

Xavvy fuel is the leading source for location data and market insights worldwide. We specialize in data quality and enrichment, providing high-quality POI data for restaurants and quick-service establishments in the United States.

Base data • Name/Brand • Adress • Geocoordinates • Opening Hours • Phone • ... ^

30+ Services • Delivery • Wifi • ChargePoints • …

10+ Payment options • Visa • MasterCard • Google Pay • individual Apps • ...

Our data offering is highly customizable and flexible in delivery – whether one-time or regular data delivery, push or pull services, and various data formats – we adapt to our customers' needs.

Brands included: • McDonalds • Burger King • Subway • KFC • Wendy's • ...

The total number of restaurants per region, market share distribution among competitors, or the ideal location for new branches – our restaurant data provides valuable insights into the food service market and serves as the perfect foundation for in-depth analyses and statistics. Our data helps businesses across various industries make informed decisions regarding market development, expansion, and competitive strategies. Additionally, our data contributes to the consistency and quality of existing datasets. A simple data mapping allows for accuracy verification and correction of erroneous entries.

Especially when displaying information about restaurants and fast-food chains on maps or in applications, high data quality is crucial for an optimal customer experience. Therefore, we continuously optimize our data processing procedures: • Regular quality controls • Geocoding systems to refine location data • Cleaning and standardization of datasets • Consideration of current developments and mergers • Continuous expansion and cross-checking of various data sources

Integrate the most comprehensive database of restaurant locations in the USA into your business. Explore our additional data offerings and gain valuable market insights directly from the experts!

Fast Food Finder

## Overview

Fast Food Finder is a dataset for object detection tasks - it contains Fast Food annotations for 1,957 images.

## Getting Started

You can download this dataset for use within your own projects, or fork it into a workspace on Roboflow to create your own model.

  ## License

  This dataset is available under the [CC BY 4.0 license](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/CC BY 4.0).

Global Fast Food Market size was valued at USD 527 billion in 2021 and is poised to grow from USD 548.08 billion in 2022 to USD 750.08 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4% in the forecast period (2023-2030).