According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans spent 20% more at restaurants than on groceries last year. With grocery prices up 8% compared to a year ago, some people have decided to spend less on groceries and opt for the convenience of take out or deliveries.
“It is a surprise in a way given the cost of food, but a trip to the grocery store has honestly gotten very expensive,” said Erwin Erhardt, PhD, an associate professor-educator of economics at UC's Carl H. Lindner College of Business.
Beyond the economics, Erhardt said, people wanting to socialize more following the COVID-19 pandemic also plays a role in the increased spending at restaurants.
“People are reconnecting, getting back out in some cases with people they haven’t seen in three years and I think once you break through and start doing that again you start enjoy going out again and I think that’s what’s going on,” he said.
