Which states spend the most—and least—on fast food: How to cut your own costs

How foods can impact your gut health

LiveNOW from FOX host Christy Matino spoke to Dr. Joan Salge Blake, a clinical assistant professor and dietetics internship director at Boston University's Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences on this issue.

A new study from WalletHub revealed that fast food is becoming more of a luxury where it was a cheap alternative in past years. 

WalletHub noted that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, prices at "limited-service restaurants" have jumped by an average of 47% over the past decade—far outpacing inflation.

It's all the more reason why cutting back on fast food isn't just healthy, it's also better for your wallet. 

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WalletHub analyzed the prices of burgers, pizza, and fried chicken sandwiches in all 50 states. Those costs were then totaled and compared to each state's median household income.

What they're saying:

"With fast food prices rising by an average of 47% over the past decade, it’s fair for consumers to wonder whether the convenience of having food in minutes is really even worth it anymore," WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said in an online statement. "Where you live can have a big impact on how much you shell out for fast food, too; it costs around 1.6 times more in the most expensive states than the cheapest states, relative to the median income."

States that spend the most on fast food 

Dig deeper:

Mississippi

Mississippi ranks highest in fast food spending relative to income, with a burger, small pizza, and chicken sandwich costing 0.47% of the median monthly household income—compared to just 0.29% in Massachusetts. Despite having some of the lowest fast food prices in the U.S., Mississippi’s low median income of $54,915 means residents spend a larger share of their earnings on these meals.

New Mexico

New Mexico ranks second in fast food costs relative to income, with three common fast food items totaling 0.47% of the median monthly household income. This adds up quickly, despite covering just a few meals. The state has relatively high prices for fast food and the sixth-lowest median income at $62,125—making fast food especially costly for residents.

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Kentucky

Kentucky ranks third for fast food costs relative to income, with a burger, small pizza, and chicken sandwich totaling 0.46% of the median monthly income. The state falls in the more expensive half for all three items and has the seventh-lowest median household income at $62,417—making fast food a significant expense for many residents.

What you can do:

Researchers suggest if you’re trying to include fast food in your diet, it’s important to stick to a solid budget. Since fast food is a luxury, it should be one of the last items added—under your "wants"—after covering essentials, paying down debt, and setting aside savings.

Other tips from WalletHub include:

• Use coupons
• Budget wisely
• Don’t get delivery
• Eat out less often
• Join rewards programs
• Don’t go crazy with your orders