Ways To Save Money on Food as Prices Rise
The cost of food in America is right on pace with the national inflation rate in 2025, with foods such as eggs and beef projected to increase in price by a little more than their historical averages.
The cost of living in the U.S. has increased by about 27% since 2019. Food spiked significantly in 2022 (9.9%) and 2023 (5.8%) before the inflation rate for that category leveled out to 2.3% in 2024. This year, that number is supposed to end up around 3%.
Fast food has spiked much faster than food at home. Between 2014 and 2024, average fast food menu prices increased by as much as 100%. For example, per a FinanceBuzz study, McDonald’s prices doubled, Popeyes jumped 86% and Taco Bell 81%.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the cost of groceries has risen by 25%, according to government data.
Many consumers have turned to side hustles to make ends meet, but there are also steps you can take to cut back on food costs. Here are three ways to save at the grocery store and at fast-food restaurants.
Find Out: 15 Holiday Shopping Hacks To Get More for Less
Learn More: Meet Your Complete Financial Toolkit. Budget, Build Credit, And Track Your Money - All In One Place
Download the Mobile Apps
Plenty of grocery stores and fast food chains have loyalty programs that you can sign up for to earn points and other discounts. You can usually take advantage of these in the store’s or restaurant’s mobile app.
Look Out for Upcoming Deals
Before going to the supermarket or picking up a meal, check for any upcoming deals. Fast food restaurants will usually offer exclusive deals and discounts on their websites. Many grocery stores will also advertise buy one, get one deals and other discounts in weekly ads.
Pay With a Rewards Card
There are many different credit cards that you can use at restaurants or supermarkets to earn cash back or discounts. Just be sure to read the fine print to see where you can earn rewards — and if there are annual fees.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice.
More From MoneyLion: