Americans typically spend an average of $166 per person each month on dining out. This figure represents a broad average, with individual spending varying significantly based on dining habits and preferences.
Average Monthly Dining Out Costs
While the average monthly spend is $166 per person, a closer look at consumer habits reveals diverse spending patterns. Many people tend to spend less per dining occasion, contributing to the overall average through more frequent, lower-cost meals.
| Cost Per Person Per Dining Experience | Percentage of Diners |
|---|---|
| $11-$20 | 42% |
| $50 or more | 8% |
The majority of diners (42%) spend between $11 and $20 per person when dining out, indicating a preference for moderately priced meals, perhaps at casual restaurants, fast-casual eateries, or for lunch. In contrast, only a small fraction (8%) regularly spends $50 or more per person, suggesting that higher-end dining experiences are less frequent for most consumers.
Understanding Dining Out Spending Habits
The average monthly cost is influenced by a combination of factors, including the frequency of dining out, the type of establishments chosen, and individual spending choices.
- Frequent, lower-cost meals: Many people might eat out several times a week, opting for more affordable options like coffee shops, fast food, or casual diners, keeping their per-meal cost low but accumulating a significant monthly total.
- Infrequent, higher-cost experiences: Others might dine out less often but choose more upscale restaurants, leading to a higher per-meal cost.
Factors Influencing Dining Out Expenses
Several variables play a crucial role in determining an individual's or household's monthly dining out expenditure:
- Frequency: The more often you eat out, the higher your monthly cost will likely be.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants will incur significantly higher costs than fast-food chains or casual eateries.
- Location: Dining out in major metropolitan areas often costs more than in suburban or rural regions due to higher operational costs.
- Number of People: Whether you dine alone, with a partner, or with a large family directly impacts the total bill.
- Beverages: Alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and sodas can add substantially to the final cost.
- Tipping and Taxes: These mandatory additions increase the overall expense beyond the menu price.
Managing Your Dining Out Budget
For those looking to control or reduce their dining out expenses, consider these practical strategies:
- Set a Monthly Budget: Allocate a specific amount for dining out and stick to it.
- Track Your Spending: Monitor where your money goes to identify areas for adjustment.
- Prioritize Value: Look for happy hour deals, lunch specials, or early bird menus.
- Cook at Home More Often: Preparing meals at home is almost always more cost-effective than eating out.
- Opt for Takeout/Delivery Sparingly: While convenient, these often come with additional fees that increase the total cost.
- Share Meals or Appetizers: Many restaurant portions are large enough to split, reducing the per-person cost.
- Drink Water: Choosing tap water over sodas, juices, or alcoholic beverages can save a considerable amount.
