PENNSYLVANIA — With inflation squeezing household budgets and traditional Valentine’s Day dinners growing increasingly expensive, many Pennsylvania couples are turning to an unexpected option to celebrate the holiday: fast food.
A new nationwide survey of 3,004 couples conducted by MarketBeat found that 67% are considering dining at a fast-food restaurant for Valentine’s Day this year, signaling a sharp shift in how couples balance romance, expectations, and cost. In Pennsylvania, Chick-fil-A emerged as the top choice, followed by KFC and Pizza Hut.
The findings suggest that high prices for dining out, from fixed-price menus to rising drink costs, are pushing couples away from white-tablecloth restaurants and toward familiar, lower-cost options that feel less pressured and more relaxed.
MarketBeat said Chick-fil-A ranked first among Pennsylvania couples for its perceived reliability and quality, offering a sense of effort without the expense. KFC placed second, appealing to couples prioritizing comfort and value, while Pizza Hut followed closely behind, boosted by its shareable format and Valentine’s-themed promotions such as heart-shaped pizzas.
Wendy’s and McDonald’s rounded out the top five, reflecting a broader acceptance of casual dining on what has traditionally been one of the most formal nights of the year.
Beyond restaurant preferences, the survey pointed to a wider cultural shift. Nearly 82% of respondents said fast-food dates are becoming more acceptable for special occasions, and 54% said inflation has changed how they plan to spend on Valentine’s Day this year. Limited-time Valentine’s menus also played a significant role, with 68% saying themed offerings would influence their choice.
Among couples opting for fast food, affordability ranked as the top reason at 28%, followed by nostalgia or shared memories at 20%, genuine enjoyment of the food at 18%, and a desire for a more relaxed experience at 16%.
The data also highlighted evolving attitudes around money and expectations. Nearly three-quarters of women surveyed said they would be comfortable splitting the bill at a fast-food restaurant on Valentine’s Day, and many respondents described fast food as a comfort purchase or small indulgence rather than a necessity.
“We are seeing a broader trend where couples are prioritizing affordability, comfort, and shared experiences over formality,” said Matt Paulson, founder of MarketBeat. “When prices rise, people naturally gravitate toward options that still let them enjoy the day without financial pressure. Fast food simply fits the cultural moment: it’s accessible, it’s familiar, and for many couples, it turns Valentine’s Day into something warm and fun rather than expensive or stressful.”
The survey suggests that in 2026, romance for many couples is less about luxury and more about familiarity — served quickly, affordably, and without the bill shock that once came with February 14.
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