The relentless inflation that has been draining Americans’ savings extends far beyond the grocery store, and one popular fast food sandwich illustrates just how much prices have risen in recent months. Although its price varies by location, a Big Mac combo meal is now selling for $16.89 in Connecticut.
Right now, the average price for a Big Mac in the U.S. is estimated to be $5.15, which is a 22 percent rise over its pre-pandemic price. Residents of Hawaii are currently paying the most, shelling out $5.31 for the sandwich alone, followed by New York at $5.23 and New Jersey at $5.19. The cheapest Big Macs can be found right now in Mississippi, where the unhealthy menu item will set you back just $3.91.
When the iconic sandwich was first launched 55 years ago in Pennsylvania, it cost just 45 cents. The sandwich features two all-beef patties, lettuce, cheese, onions, pickles and a special sauce on a sesame seed bun and is one of the fast food chain’s most recognizable offerings. It is now featured at more than 38,000 McDonald’s outlets throughout the world and its price has even become a topic of interest for economists.
In 1986, The Economist started the Big Mac Index to measure currencies around the world using the price of a Big Mac in America as its comparison point. Inflation has driven up the cost of food across the board in the last few years, with the price of not only ingredients but also packaging and fuel all playing a role in the soaring expense of food.
One TikTok user recently exposed a particularly overpriced Big Mac at a Connecticut McDonald’s, where the menu in the footage clearly states that the price of a Big Mac combo is $16.89, while the price for a chicken sandwich combo ranges from $16.69 to $17.89.
In the video, the narrator can be heard shouting, “Y’all remember them stimulus checks that they gave out? Thought you was getting away with that stimulus money, huh? They want it back!”
The reactions to the video expressed outrage and disbelief, with the general consensus being that this unhealthy, chemical-laden combination of a sandwich, soda and fries is not worth nearly $17.00. One commenter noted that the meal was not worth it even when its price was closer to $8.
Although the user conceded that they were at a rest stop location, where the prices do tend to be higher, McDonald’s prices have indeed been climbing without providing additional value to consumers.
McDonald’s is laying off corporate employees as part of wider restructuring
In addition, the fast food chain has been reducing some employees’ pay and titles as part of a restructuring that will see hundreds of workers lose their positions. Last week, they closed their offices for a few days to hold career conversations with their corporate employees, telling them to work from home so they could be informed of staffing changes virtually. Some were reportedly told they could hold onto their jobs by agreeing to reduced pay, cuts to their benefits, and changes to their position or title.
Earlier this year, McDonald’s announced that it would be cutting corporate jobs and eliminating some initiatives despite opening a series of new stores. The jobs that are being cut are largely on the corporate side, while the restaurants themselves are still struggling to fill openings.
Meanwhile, McDonald’s U.S. President Joe Erlinger announced that the firm would permanently close all 10 of its field offices throughout the nation, citing high costs and underutilization. And while it is not surprising to see a company that serves unhealthy food at elevated prices struggle, it’s part of an unfortunate broader trend of corporate layoffs that could lead to a major economic meltdown.
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Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.