The following is a snapshot of US Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) trends for July 2025.

Note: Trends may vary slightly depending on data availability at the time of reporting.

QSR Traffic and Pricing Trends Overview

In July 2025, U.S. QSR traffic was down -0.4% YOY, compared to July 2024, which saw a decline of -2.2% YOY.

Average fast-food prices stayed relatively flat at +0.1% YOY last month, down from June’s +1.3% increase. Revenue Management Solutions (RMS) notes this pause in price growth is likely due to significant promotional activity across the industry.

How to Navigate Traffic & Pricing Fluctuations

To win in today’s challenging environment, QSR brands need pricing strategies that drive growth while keeping guests loyal. But we know a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. RMS focuses on store-level pricing, analyzing each location individually to help operators identify the right price points for every store.

By understanding local conditions, fast-food operators can respond to local competition, demand fluctuations and market dynamics in real time. Backed by RMS’ insights and restaurant technologies, this approach turns market shifts into opportunities, keeping brands one step ahead.

Breakdown of Monthly QSR Performance Trends

When comparing fast-food performance trends YOY (July 2025 to July 2024):

• Net sales increased +0.7% YOY.
• Traffic is down -0.4% YOY.
• Average check is up +1.0% YOY.
• Quantity per transaction (QPT) increased +1.0% YOY.
• Average price stayed marginally the same at +0.1% YOY.

Drive Profitability Even in a Challenging Market

With traffic softening and pricing opportunities limited, QSR operators need new ways to protect margins and drive profitability. But what can brands do when pricing is just not as feasible?

RMS’ financial reporting software, metiRi®, helps multi-location operators uncover cost-saving opportunities of up to 4% by providing a standardized view of financial performance across stores. Our benchmarking software gives you instant access to key financial metrics, including cash-on-cash returns, liquidity ratios and payback periods, so you can quickly identify trends, improve unit economics and strengthen your franchise’s financial health.

QSR Traffic by Daypart

• Breakfast traffic decreased by -4.6% YOY.
• Lunch traffic also slowed down, decreasing by -1.9% compared to July 2024.
• Dinner continued as a stronghold, increasing by +1.6% YOY.

Monthly QSR Traffic by Sales Channel

• Takeout is the top-performing fast-food sales channel in July, with traffic up +14.1% YOY.
• Delivery was up +10.8% YOY, despite changing consumer attitudes.
• Dine-in is steady at +0.3% YOY.
• Drive-thru traffic declined by -5.0% YOY.

In our latest consumer report, RMS found that nearly 2 in 5 respondents ​intend to reduce their delivery orders. Customers are saying high delivery fees and extra charges are driving up the cost of ordering in.​ ​At the same time, more consumers report dining in at least once a week. This steady trend signals an opportunity for restaurants to reinvest in the in-store experience, through ambiance, service or value offerings.​ Check out the full report for more insider tips.

Consultant’s Corner

How Restaurant Operating Hours Data Can Drive Profitability

The hours your restaurant operates can have a major effect on your bottom line. See how RMS helps fast-food restaurants use operating hours data to optimize staffing, reduce costs and uncover new revenue opportunities. Discover practical strategies to run your restaurant more efficiently and increase profitability.