Meal Prep vs. Takeout: The Real Cost for Inland Empire Families

If you're like most families in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, or Ontario, you've probably found yourself asking: "Should I order takeout again tonight, or is there a better way?"

Between work, kids' activities, and everything else on your plate, cooking from scratch every night can feel impossible. But those $15–$25 takeout orders add up fast. So what's the real cost difference between meal prep delivery and takeout—and which one actually saves you money (and sanity)?

Let's break it down.

The True Cost of Takeout for Families

Takeout seems convenient, but the numbers tell a different story:

  • Average takeout meal per person: $12–$18

  • Family of 4 dinner: $48–$72 per meal

  • Weekly takeout (3–4 nights): $144–$288

  • Monthly cost: $576–$1,152

And that's before delivery fees, tips, and those impulse add-ons. Plus, you're often getting oversized portions with excess sodium, sugar, and mystery ingredients.

Hidden Costs of Takeout

  • Time spent deciding: 15–30 minutes scrolling menus

  • Wait time: 30–60 minutes for delivery

  • Food waste: Leftovers that don't reheat well

  • Health impact: Less control over ingredients and nutrition

  • Inconsistency: Quality varies; you never know what you're getting

The Meal Prep Advantage

Now let's look at professional meal prep delivery:

  • Average cost per meal: $10–$12

  • Family of 4 dinner (using family trays): $30–$37.50

  • Weekly cost (3–4 nights with our Family Dinner Plan): $90–$150

  • Monthly savings vs. takeout: $426–$1,002

What You Get with Meal Prep

✅ Fully customizable menus – Choose your proteins, veggies, and carbs✅ Portion-controlled, nutritious meals – No mystery ingredients✅ Zero decision fatigue – Plan once, eat all week✅ Ready in minutes – Just heat and serve✅ Consistent quality – Restaurant-quality food every time✅ Less food waste – Perfectly portioned meals

Real Inland Empire Family Scenarios

The Martinez Family (Rancho Cucamonga)

Before meal prep: Ordering takeout 4 nights/week = $960/month After switching to our 5-Tray Family Plan: $180–$225/week = $720–$900/month Monthly savings: $60–$240 + hours of time back

"We were spending a fortune on takeout and still felt guilty about the kids eating so much fried food. Now we have healthy, delicious dinners ready to go—and we're actually saving money!" – Maria M.

The Chen Family (Upland)

Before meal prep: Mix of takeout and grocery shopping = $800/month + 6 hours/week cooking After switching to meal prep + occasional family trays: $600/month + 2 hours/week Monthly savings: $200 + 16 hours of time

"The time savings alone are worth it. And knowing exactly what's in our food? Priceless." – David C.

Cost Comparison Calculator

Your family's weekly takeout cost: Takeout nights per week: ___ × Average cost per meal: $___ = $___/week

Your potential meal prep cost: Meal prep nights per week: ___ × $10–$12/meal × Family size: ___ = $___/week

Your potential monthly savings: $___

Why Rivas Event Co. Meal Prep Wins

Fully Customizable

Unlike takeout where you're stuck with the menu, our meal prep lets you build exactly what you want:

  • Proteins: Chicken, beef, fish, vegetarian options

  • Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, mixed veggies, and more

  • Carbs: Rice, potatoes, pasta, or low-carb options

Family Dinner Plan Options

Perfect for busy Inland Empire families:

3-Tray Plan: $120–$150/week (3–4 meals for 4–6 adults)5-Tray Plan: $180–$225/week (5 meals for 4–6 adults)

Each tray is family-style, ready to heat and serve. No prep, no cleanup, no stress.

Local & Fresh

We source quality ingredients locally and prepare everything fresh in Upland. You're supporting a local business while feeding your family better.

Flexible & Convenient

  • Order by Friday for Sunday delivery

  • Contactless delivery within 10–15 miles of Upland

  • No long-term commitment

  • Pause or adjust anytime

The Bottom Line

For most Inland Empire families, meal prep delivery costs 30–50% less than regular takeout—while delivering better nutrition, less stress, and more family time.

Takeout: $576–$1,152/month + decision fatigue + inconsistent quality Meal Prep: $360–$600/month + time savings + peace of mind

The choice is clear.

Ready to Save Money & Time?

Get $25 off your first Family Dinner Plan order!

👉 Visit rivaseventco.com to customize your plan today.

Questions? Email us at info@rivaseventco.com or check out our meal prep options online.

Serving Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, Claremont, Montclair, and surrounding Inland Empire areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does meal prep delivery work? A: Order by Friday, and we deliver fresh, ready-to-heat meals to your door on Sunday. Just store in the fridge and heat when ready.

Q: Can I customize every meal? A: Absolutely! Choose your proteins, vegetables, and carbs for each meal.

Q: What if I have dietary restrictions? A: We accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, and other dietary needs. Just let us know!

Q: Is there a minimum order? A: Our Family Dinner Plan starts at 3 trays/week. Individual meal prep has flexible minimums—contact us for details.

Q: Do you deliver to my area? A: We deliver within 10–15 miles of Upland, CA, covering most of the Inland Empire.

Rivas Event Co. – Making life easier and more delicious, one meal at a time. 🍽️

Alexander Rivas