US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market 2025–2034

Reports Description

As per the current market research conducted by the CMI Team, US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market is expected to record a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025 to 2034. In 2025, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of USD 301 Billion. By 2034, the valuation is anticipated to reach USD 508.6 Billion.

US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market: Overview

A fast-food restaurant, usually referred to as a quick-service restaurant (QSR) in the industry, is a particular kind of restaurant that offers limited table service and fast-food fare. Though seats may be available, fast-food restaurants typically serve a “meat-sweet diet” consisting of a limited menu, prepared in bulk ahead of time and kept hot, finished and packaged to order, and typically available for takeout.

Fast-food establishments are usually a part of a franchise or restaurant chain that uses regulated supply channels to deliver uniform ingredients, partially produced meals, and supplies to every location. The US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market is being driven by several factors such as changing consumer lifestyles, rising urbanization, increasing disposable income, growing consumption of fast food and many others. However, growing health concerns and changing consumer preferences is a major hurdles for the industry expansion.

• According to data released by the National Institutes of Health, 72.4% (67.4% in females vs 80.7% in males) had at least one type of fast-food consumption in the US including sandwich 44.4%, pizza 39.7%, and fried chicken 13.8%.

• According to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, disposable Personal Income in the United States averaged 6439.55 USD Billion from 1959 until 2024, reaching an all-time high of 21995.10 USD Billion in November of 2024 and a record low of 351.54 USD Billion in January 1959.

US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market: Growth Factors

Changing consumer behavior and rising disposable income

In most regions, consumers are increasingly dining out due to a combination of changing consumer behavior and rising family income. Additionally, even while well-known brands like Domino’s, Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King continue to be popular, the fast growth of different food service outlets is becoming more and more popular in established US markets. Since fast food is becoming more and more popular among young people, US fast-food chains are now looking into international markets.

Because of its flavor, menu diversity, affordability, and ease of use, its consumption is increasing. The business is growing as a result of several factors, including increased foreign investment, rising household incomes, a growing millennial population, an increase in tourism, and changing consumer spending patterns.

Healthy fast-food options by its chains

For a while, food service chains have been following the trend of healthy eating, with differing degrees of success. By adding items to their menus that are lower in fat, cholesterol, and sodium, they hope to boost sales and draw in new clients. Additionally, the anti-obesity campaign is having an impact on fast-food establishments’ menus.

Food processors and suppliers will have opportunities as fast-food companies provide healthier menu options. The move toward healthier fast food is favored by over half of American consumers. Fast food restaurants have greater opportunities as a result.

US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market: Recent Development

The US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market adopted several strategies which include product launches, acquisitions, collaboration, expansion and others. Some of the company strategies include:

• In January 2024, Restaurant Brands International Inc. and Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. announced that they had reached an agreement for RBI to acquire all of Carrols issued and outstanding shares that are not already held by RBI or its affiliates for $9.55 per share in an all-cash transaction, or an aggregate total enterprise value of approximately $1.0 billion, representing a 23.1% premium to Carrols 30-day volume-weighted average price.

These product launches and collaboration strategies have expanded the market presence of the company in the US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market and gained its competitive edge.

US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market: Challenge

Rising health concerns

Young adults’ increased consumption of fast food is concerning since it leads to a high fat intake, which may contribute to obesity and the chronic illnesses that are connected to it. Among other long-term health problems, early mortality, and illnesses, obesity is linked to diabetes, cancer, gallbladder disease, fatty liver, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and joint disorders. The increasing prevalence of obesity among diverse demographics hampers market growth.

US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market: Category-Wise Insights

By Type:

The independent segment dominates the market. Independent QSRs frequently concentrate on providing distinctive, regionally inspired cuisines or genuine foods to cater to customers looking for a variety of dining experiences.

Besides, the chain segment growing at a rapid rate due to the innovation in its product menu. To draw clients and raise average transaction values, chains frequently launch seasonal promotions, limited-time offers (LTOs), and new products. Plant-based foods, healthier substitutes, and culturally appropriate menu items satisfy changing customer tastes.

By Cuisine:

The American segment captures a prominent market share in the US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market. American food. QSRs serve universally popular comfort foods that appeal to a wide customer. The familiarity and nostalgia connected with these foods encourage repeat visits and strong consumer loyalty.

Besides, the Turkish & Lebanese segment shows a rapid expansion. Both Turkish and Lebanese cuisines prioritize fresh vegetables, lean meats (such as chicken and lamb), and nutritious grains (such as bulgur), making them appealing to health-conscious consumers. Thus, this is expected to drive industry expansion.

Report Scope

US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market: Country Analysis

California dominates the US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) market. California is one of the most culturally diverse states in the United States, having sizable Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern communities. This cultural diversity promotes demand for a wide range of cuisines in the quick-service restaurant industry, including Mexican, Asian fusion, Mediterranean, and plant-based options.

List of the prominent players in the US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market:

• CFA Properties Inc.
• Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc.
• Doctor’s Associates Inc.
• Domino’s Pizza Inc.
• Ilitch Holdings Inc.
• Inspire Brands Inc.
• McDonald’s Corporation
• Papa John’s International Inc.
• Restaurant Brands International Inc.
• The Wendy’s Company
• Yum! Brands Inc.
• Others

The US Fast Food & Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Market is segmented as follows:

By Type

• Chain
• Independent

By Cuisine

• American
• Chinese
• Italian
• Mexican
• Japanese
• Turkish & Lebanese
• Others