Beef prices are rising. What’s cheaper - local burger joints or fast food? We did the math
The Idaho Statesman recently ran a five-round poll to help determine the Treasure Valley’s best restaurant to grab a burger. Through the voting process, one thing became clear: Boise has a lot of great choices for tasty burgers.
The poll focused specifically on locally-owned restaurants, but that doesn’t mean Idahoans don’t enjoy their chain restaurants, either. That was evident when fans of In-n-Out waited in line for up to 8 hours in December when the California-based chain opened its first location in the Gem State.
Typically, the fast-food or chain option is cheaper than you’re local restaurant, but that’s starting to change.
The United States Department of Agriculture reported in its February 2024 livestock, dairy and poultry outlook that there are “historically tight supplies” of cattle heading into 2024.
The USDA reports that beef production in 2024 is forecast to be about 3% lower than in 2023, and last year also marked the fifth straight year of a decrease in available beef cows.
A reduction in cattle availability and the subsequent price rise in beef mean that customers will eventually bear those costs. For example, on average, a Big Mac from McDonald’s cost $4.23 in Idaho last year. You’ll now pay $4.99 for a Big Mac at a Boise McDonald’s.
But what about other restaurants and fast-food joints? Is it cheaper to still eat at a fast-food location, or do beef prices mean it may be cheaper to eat at your local favorite?
Here are the prices for a local single-patty cheeseburger at some local Treasure Valley restaurants compared to fast-food joints.
Best burgers in Boise
The eight restaurants listed below all made it to the final eight of the Treasure Valley Burger Bracket:
Big Bun Drive In - $5.49
Big Jud’s - $7.69
Boise Fry Company - $6.35
Burger N’ Brew - $6.99
Owyhee Tavern - $14
Westside Drive In - $5.59
Viking Drive In - $2.81
Wyld Child - $6.99
AVERAGE - $6.99
Chain restaurants
The following eight restaurants are popular chains that can be found both in Boise and nationwide.
Burger King - $7.59
Carl’s Jr. - $6.89
Five Guy’s - $12.23
Freddy’s - $7.50
Jack in the Box - $8.11
McDonald’s - $4.99
Sonic - $7.31
Wendy’s - $7.06
AVERAGE - $7.71
While prices vary from restaurant to restaurant, there’s a 72-cent difference between the cheaper, locally-owned restaurants and the national fast food chains.
So, if you’re looking for a nice burger worth your money? It might be worth checking out somewhere locally owned rather than a fast food joint.
