Market Size statistics on the Fast Food Restaurants industry in United States

While shifting consumer preferences and a crowded foodservice landscape, fast food restaurants have maintained a steady pace of growth. Over the five years to 2025, industry revenue has expanded at a CAGR of 3.9%, reaching $417.5 billion. Notably, 2025 alone will experience a 1.1% increase in revenue. The trend towards fast casual dining has bolstered the industry, helping fast food chains hold their ground amid fierce competition. As health awareness continues to rise, consumers demand healthier and alternative options to conventional fast food. To an extent, major chains have met this demand by introducing healthier menu selections. Other innovative measures included investments in meat substitutes and introducing various dietary preferences to attract a broader consumer base. However, the shift towards a healthier lifestyle has somewhat dampened demand for traditional fast food staples, leading to a decline in industry profit. Between 2022 and 2025, fast food restaurants have grappled with surging operational costs, including purchase, utility, rent and labor. The collective force of these cost increases has depressed industry profit, reaching 4.6% of revenue in 2025. Higher minimum wages, especially in California, have been detrimental to fast food restaurant's bottom lines, which subsequently boost technology adoption such as AI drive-thus. Over the next five years, the fast food industry is expected to maintain its growth trajectory, albeit slower. With fast casual restaurants on the rise and consumer spending expected to climb, further revenue growth for the fast food industry is expected. However, the environment is forecast to grow slowly for fast food chains, as many segments within the industry approach saturation. Despite these challenges, successful operations in the industry will likely pivot in response to changing consumer preferences. In this evolving scenario, the concept of fast food is likely to expand beyond its traditional confines to include a broader range of choices. However, intense competition within the industry will continue to put downward pressure on prices, and hence, revenue growth is expected to slow over the next five years. Projections indicate a CAGR of 1.3% over the next five years, bringing the industry revenue to $445.2 billion by 2030.

Fast Food Market holds a forecasted revenue of USD 816.0 Bn in 2025 and is likely to cross USD 1,117.92 Bn by 2032 with a steady annual growth rate of 4.6%.

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.

The market size of the quick service restaurant (QSR) industry in the United States reached ***** billion U.S. dollars in 2023, up from the previous year's total of *** billion U.S. dollars. QSRs are sometimes referred to as limited service restaurants (LSRs), but more commonly known as fast food restaurants.

The statistic illustrates the forecasted growth rate of the fast food industry in the Netherlands from 2017 to 2021. The growth rate of the fast food industry in the Netherlands is expected to fluctuate slightly in the coming years. According to this forecast, an overall increase in growth of 2.7 percent is expected in 2021.

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.

Global Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurant market size is expected to reach $436.07 billion by 2029 at 7.2%, the surge in restaurant popularity fueling fast-food and quick-service restaurant market growth

In 2023, the market size of the quick service restaurant industry worldwide reached 1.1 trillion U.S. dollars, representing a slight increase over the previous year. Quick service restaurants, also known as limited service or fast food restaurants, are establishments which typically serve food to customers quickly while having minimal table service. What are the leading fast food restaurant chains worldwide? As of 2024, Starbucks held the title of the highest-valued restaurant brand in the world. With a brand value exceeding 60 billion U.S. dollars, it was nearly double that of the second most valuable brand, McDonald's. In the ranking of the leading food and drink service chains by global sales, Starbucks was among the top three, generating over 36 billion U.S. dollars. The company closely followed the UK-based food service leader, the Compass Group. Which country has the highest number of Starbucks locations? In 2023, the country with the most Starbucks stores was its home country of the United States, where there were over 16 thousand locations. The coffee shop chain also had a significant presence in China and Korea. In the U.S., Starbucks was the coffee shop chain with the highest sales, generating approximately 20 billion U.S. dollars more than its closest competitor, Dunkin’. Additionally, Starbucks enjoyed popularity among U.S. consumers, receiving an average American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) score of 80 out of 100.

The United States fast food market size reached USD 188.9 Billion in 2024 and expected to reach USD 261.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% during 2025-2033. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of key trends across market segments, with detailed forecasts at regional and country levels for the period 2025-2033. It categorizes the market based on product type and end user.

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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 market is witnessing significant shifts, driven by the increasing online presence of companies and the growing number of fast-food outlets. The digital transformation (Food management) of the industry is reshaping consumer behavior, with more individuals opting for contactless ordering and delivery options. Simultaneously, the proliferation of new outlets is intensifying competition, making it essential for players to differentiate their offerings. However, the market faces challenges as well.
Health concerns surrounding the excessive consumption of fast foods continue to mount, with consumers increasingly seeking healthier alternatives. As a result, companies must innovate to cater to this demand, introducing more nutritious options or reformulating existing menus. Navigating this delicate balance between convenience, affordability, and health will be crucial for market success.

What will be the Size of the Fast Food Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, with dynamic market dynamics shaping various sectors. Employee training and development are crucial for maintaining high-quality food production and customer service. Energy efficiency initiatives, such as optimizing kitchen equipment and implementing waste management systems, contribute to cost savings and sustainability. Nutritional information and health-conscious options cater to diverse customer demographics, while recycling programs and compostable packaging address growing concerns for the environment. Profit margins are influenced by inventory management and pricing strategies. Allergen information and food waste reduction programs ensure customer satisfaction and adherence to food safety regulations. Catering services and delivery options expand reach and convenience, while brand loyalty programs foster repeat business.

Chicken sandwiches and breakfast sandwiches remain popular menu items, with menu engineering and calorie counts shaping consumer choices. Digital marketing and advertising campaigns leverage social media to engage customers and promote new offerings. Sustainability initiatives, such as fair trade practices and local sourcing, enhance brand image and appeal to socially conscious consumers. Operating expenses, including labor costs, kitchen management software, and lease agreements, impact profitability. Franchise fees and franchise opportunities provide growth opportunities for entrepreneurs, while dietary restrictions and health inspections necessitate adaptability and compliance. Water conservation, real estate, data analytics, and supply chain management are essential areas of focus for long-term success.The market's continuous evolution requires ongoing adaptation and innovation.

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


Target Audience

  Youth
  Families
  Professionals


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada
    Mexico


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The non-vegetarian fast food segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic the market, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options cater to diverse consumer preferences. While non-vegetarian choices, including fish, seafood, chicken, beef, and more, continue to be popular due to their appetizing flavors and varying preparation methods, the demand for health-conscious options is on the rise. This trend is driven by the increasing awareness of nutritional values and the preference for low-calorie, high-protein meals. Social media marketing and digital platforms have become essential tools for fast food businesses to reach customers, with delivery services and mobile ordering further enhancing convenience. Compostable packaging and recycling programs are also gaining traction as part of sustainability initiatives.

Restaurant equipment, food safety regulations, and inventory management are crucial aspects of the industry, ensuring efficient kitchen operations and

This statistic shows the fast food market share in the United States in 2015. Yum! Brands Inc. accounted for 10.8 percent of the U.S. fast food industry.

U.S. fast food industry - additional information

McDonald’s held, by far, the largest market share of the fast food industry in the United States in 2015. Its closest competitor was Yum! Brands - owner of popular chains Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut and WingStreet. The leading five brands account for over 40 percent of the entire U.S. fast food industry, which, in 2014, generated over 198.9 billion U.S. dollars in revenue. This revenue was forecasted to rise above 223 billion dollars in 2020.

As well as leading the U.S. fast food industry, McDonald’s was also the most valuable fast food brand worldwide in 2016. With a brand value of more than 88 billion U.S. dollars, the company was worth more than double its closest competitor, Starbucks. McDonald’s worldwide revenue reached 24.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2016, with over 8.25 billion of this being accumulated in the U.S.

Fast food is clearly popular with U.S. consumers. In a November 2016 survey, 44 percent of Americans admitted to eating in quick service restaurants at least once a week. The popularity of fast food is perhaps unsurprising, considering that children aged between two and 11 years watch hundreds of fast food ads annually. Once again, McDonald’s topped the list, with two- to five-year-olds watching an average of 207.7 of McDonald’s ads, and six- to 11-year-olds watching 253.6 ads that year.

Fast Food Market size was valued at USD 3167.03 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3961.51 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3.13% from 2024 to 2031.Rising Urbanization and Busy Lifestyles: As cities expand and people become busier, there is a greater demand for accessible and economical food options. Fast food restaurants address this requirement by providing quick service and readily available meals.Increasing Disposable Incomes: As disposable incomes rise, customers, particularly in emerging countries, have more money to spend on dining out. This trend promotes the expansion of the fast-food industry.Technological Advancements: Technological innovations such as online ordering, mobile apps, and self-service kiosks provide ease and speed to the ordering process, drawing more customers to fast food businesses.

Market Size statistics on the Global Fast Food Restaurants industry in Global

The quick service restaurant (QSR) industry in the United States generated a revenue of 178.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2009. Major players in the QSR industry include household names such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and Yum Brands (KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell). Out of the leading QSR chains, McDonald's contributed the most to the overall revenue of the U.S. fast food industry, with Starbucks following in a not-so-close second place.

This statistic shows the number of employees per establishment in the United States fast food restaurant industry from 2004 to 2018. In 2018, it was forecasted that there would 15.28 fast food restaurant employees per establishment.

Fast food employees - additional information

The number of fast food employees per establishment in the United States has decreased year-on-year, and the number was set to dwindle further until 2018. The total number of employees in the U.S. fast food industry was forecasted to rise to approximately 3.78 million in 2018. The industry’s revenue per employee was also forecasted to reach over 55 thousand U.S. dollars in 2018.

In 2017, the U.S. fast food industry is expected to spend more than 50 billion U.S. dollars on employee wages. That year, the average wage for a fast food worker is expected to be roughly 13.36 thousand dollars. Wages had declined in previous years, but they were forecasted to increase steadily from 2015 to 2018.

In 2017, industry revenue is expected to rise above 200 billion U.S. dollars. By far the largest fast food brand was McDonald’s with a market share of 17 percent. Yum! Brands followed with 10.8 percent. The leading five brands accounted for 41.1 percent of the entire U.S. fast food industry in 2015.

Vietnam fast food market size reached USD 4.5 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 6.4 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% during 2025-2033. The increasing integration of technology, including mobile apps for ordering, online delivery services, and self-service kiosks, which has enhanced the customer experience and convenience of fast food, is driving the market.

MARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the country level for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type and end user.

The South Korea fast food market was valued at USD 18.05 Billion in 2024. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.60% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to attain a valuation of USD 28.30 Billion by 2034.

Throughout 2025 to 2035 the Vegan Fast-Food Market will grow from a value of USD 19719.87 million and is projected to expand to USD 29472.119 Million by 2035 with a projected compound annual growth rate of 4.1%.

Country wise Insights

Category-wise Insight

The global fast food market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of around 4.9% during the forecast period, 2020 – 2026.



Fast food is a substitute for home-made meals which can be prepared quickly, easily, and served, often at chain restaurants and typically associated with less expensive and less nutritious items such as hamburgers, pizzas, soda, and many more. They are mainly prepared in large quantities and are served quickly to the customers as per their demand. Typically, fast food is sold in a restaurant or store with precooked or preheated ingredients, and served to the customer in a wrapped form for take away or drive through. These foods are high in sodium, sugar, and fat, which may cause health-related problems, and obesity. Moreover, fast food is also considered as empty calorie food which defines food with bulk of calories and no or rarer micronutrients.

Market Trends, Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities:

• Rising number of fast food restaurants chains and hotels is expected to boost the market growth.
• Increasing disposable income of people, the changing food habits of consumers in developing countries, increase in the number of working population which is highly dependent on fast food owing to its busy schedule are fueling the market growth.
• Growing convenience and affordability of fast food is a major factor driving the growth of the market.
• Growing number of women employment rate which results in difficulty for them to cook meals is expected to boost the demand for the consumption of fast food. This, in turn, is driving the growth of the market.
• Availability of healthy fast food that helps in the weight loss with right combinations and proportions is driving the market growth.
• Growing health concerns of people regarding the negative impact of fast food leading to obesity, overweight, and other medical issues has been hindering the market growth.
• Increasing regulations regarding food safety and animal welfare been restraining the growth of the market.