California’s fast food prices rose 7% before new $20 wage, No. 1 jump in US

California fast food prices have risen by 7% in six months – the biggest bump in the nation, according to one industry cost tracker

My trusty spreadsheet reviewed a study by Datassential tracking what changed price-wise at quick-serve eateries in the run-up to the April 1 start of California’s $20 minimum wage for workers at big chains.

California fast-food diners are by no means alone in dealing with less economical menus. Costs in the food business continue to rise – whether those be labor...