How much is 5 seconds worth to a restaurant? A bank? A grocery store? The 2007 Wait Time Study reveals the answer.

The Study, conducted by the MSPA in October, measured the average amount of time people spend waiting in line among 25 cities and 10 industries in the United States. In addition to wait times, the study also measured Return Ratios, or the likelihood respondents would return to the location based only on wait time. A high return ratio represents consumers are satisfied with the wait time or expected longer waits. A low return ratio represents consumers expect a shorter wait time.

Here's a quick sample of what the study reveals:

• The average wait time nationwide is 4:20 (4 minutes, 20 seconds)
• St. Louis is the fastest city in America with an average wait time of 2:09
• Across America, customers receive service in quick service restaurants 4:40 quicker than wireless communications stores
• Nationwide, the best time of day to shop is 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., as mornings have the shortest wait time, an average of 3:33.
• Missouri is the fastest state in the U.S. with an average wait time of 2:52 across 10 industries