7 Fast Food Chains That Need to Cool It on Prices (and 7 That Keep It Fair)

Fast food used to mean affordable meals on the go, but some chains have hiked prices way beyond what seems reasonable. While inflation has affected everything we buy, certain restaurants have gone overboard with their pricing strategies.

Let’s look at which fast food joints need to pump the brakes on their prices—and which ones still offer decent value for your hard-earned cash.

1. McDonald’s Golden Arches, Golden Prices

Remember when the Dollar Menu actually had items for a dollar? Those days are long gone! McDonald’s prices have nearly doubled since 2014, far outpacing inflation. A Big Mac meal now costs around $10-12 in many locations. The McDouble jumped from $1.19 to over $3 in just a decade.

Last week I stopped for a quick lunch and spent nearly $15 for a meal that would’ve cost half that a few years ago!

2. Chipotle’s Burrito Highway Robbery

Burritos at Chipotle now routinely hit the $15-20 range once you add guacamole and protein extras. Their prices have climbed a staggering 68% over the past decade! The chain’s notorious “shrinkflation” has customers complaining about smaller portions despite the premium prices.

Many loyal fans feel betrayed as their favorite lunch spot transforms into a luxury expense. What once was a filling, affordable meal now requires serious budget consideration.

3. Five Guys’ Five-Star Pricing

Five Guys serves tasty burgers, but at what cost? A basic burger, fries, and drink combo can easily hit the $20 mark—rivaling sit-down restaurants! Sure, their fries portion is generous, but the pricing feels more appropriate for a steakhouse than a fast food joint.

The chain justifies costs with “never frozen” ingredients and premium toppings. Yet many customers question whether a basic burger deserves such a premium price tag.

4. Shake Shack’s Wallet-Shaking Prices

Shake Shack positions itself as “fine casual,” but there’s nothing casual about their prices. A ShackBurger starts around $6.19, and adding fries and a shake pushes your meal toward $20. While their ingredients are undeniably premium, the final bill causes serious sticker shock.

Many customers wonder if slightly better ingredients justify prices that are double those of traditional fast food chains. The quality-to-cost ratio has many questioning their loyalty.

5. Taco Bell’s Not-So-Value Menu

Taco Bell built its reputation on cheap eats, but prices have surged 81% since 2014. The Beefy 5-Layer Burrito that once cost $1.59 now commands $3.69—a 132% increase! Reddit users complain about combo meals hitting $8-10, approaching sit-down restaurant territory.

Despite maintaining a value menu, the overall price trajectory has outpaced the perceived value. The chain’s affordability image is increasingly at odds with register receipts.

6. Popeyes’ Pricey Poultry

Popeyes has seen prices soar 86% over the past decade. Their famous chicken sandwich combo now costs around $12, up from $8 just four years ago! A 4-piece chicken dinner jumped from $7 to nearly $14 between 2014-2024.

When I brought my family there last month, our bill hit $45 for what used to be an affordable treat. Customers increasingly question whether simple fried chicken justifies these premium prices.

7. Wendy’s Not-So-Fresh Pricing

Wendy’s has quietly become one of the priciest burger chains around. Prices jumped 35% in just one year (2021-2022), with the average meal hitting $6.63. A Big Bacon Classic combo now costs $10-12 in many locations.

The chain even considered implementing dynamic pricing (like airlines and hotels), but backtracked after customer outrage. Even their iconic Frosty has nearly doubled in price in some markets.

8. In-N-Out Burger’s Honest Approach

In-N-Out Burger remains a beacon of reasonable pricing in the fast food landscape. Their Double-Double costs around $4.50, with a complete combo meal staying under $10. The chain’s commitment to simplicity—a focused menu and no franchising—helps keep prices in check.

What you see in menu photos is actually what arrives at your table. Their reasonable prices haven’t compromised quality, earning fierce loyalty from customers who appreciate both value and taste.

9. Taco Bell’s Redemption: Value Boxes

While Taco Bell appears on our “needs to chill” list, their value boxes deserve recognition. The $5-$9 Cravings Boxes offer multiple items at 55% savings compared to ordering separately. Their Cravings Value Menu features 10 items at $3 or less.

I grabbed their $5 box last week and couldn’t even finish everything—talk about bang for your buck! These strategic offerings help offset their otherwise escalating menu prices.

10. Little Caesars’ Hot-N-Ready Value

Little Caesars continues to be the budget champion of pizza chains. Their signature Hot-N-Ready pizzas have only increased from $5 to about $6, remaining significantly cheaper than competitors.

An ExtraMostBestest pepperoni pizza costs around $8, while their popular Crazy Bread runs about $4. These prices make feeding a family possible without breaking the bank.

The no-frills approach and carry-out model help maintain these wallet-friendly prices.

11. Costco Food Court’s Time-Defying Deals

Costco’s food court stands as the ultimate inflation fighter. Their hot dog and soda combo has remained $1.50 since 1985—a price point that’s become legendary in the industry. Pizza slices cost around $1.99 and are notably larger than competitors’.

My kids insist on Costco pizza every shopping trip, and I never mind because it’s actually affordable! These incredible deals have become a cultural phenomenon and customer loyalty driver.

12. Jack in the Box’s Late Night Value

Jack in the Box keeps late-night cravings affordable with their legendary two tacos for $0.99 deal. Their Munchies Under $4 Menu features a variety of burgers and tacos that won’t empty your wallet. The Late Night Munchie Meal, priced around $6, packs multiple items into one affordable package.

Price increases have been relatively modest at 45% since 2019—almost matching inflation rather than doubling it.

13. Subway’s Footlong Fairness

Subway has managed to keep price increases around 39%, roughly matching inflation rates. Their footlong sandwiches hover around $9-10, including unlimited free toppings (except avocado). App deals and frequent coupons help keep costs manageable for budget-conscious customers.

I’ve been using their rewards program for years and regularly score half-price subs! The customization factor gives customers control over their spending, allowing for both budget and premium options.

14. Burger King’s Royal Value Propositions

Burger King fights to maintain affordability through strategic bundle deals. Their two for $5 and three for $7 promotions provide substantial value, while the $5 Your Way Meal includes a Whopper Jr., fries, and drink at a wallet-friendly price.

Despite the Whopper’s price increasing by 85.9% since 2020, these promotional offers help offset the sting. Their app consistently offers deep discounts that reward loyal customers without requiring royal wealth.