When it comes to fast food, we all want the same thing: food that tastes good (usually because it has a lot of salt and fat) and is quick and cheap. But with so many options to choose from, which fast food chain gives you the most bang for your buck?

To help you get the tastiest deals without overspending, here are fast food chains that deliver the best value for your dollar. Get ready to learn which spot you should hit up when you’re looking for maximum munch without crushing your budget.

1. McDonald’s: The king of value menus

When it comes to value, McDonald’s is hard to beat. With their $1 $2 $3 Dollar Menu, you can build an entire meal without even cracking a $5 bill. From cheeseburgers to McChicken sandwiches to small fries and drinks, McDonald’s has some of the cheapest fast food around. Plus, they’re always throwing in limited-time offers that keep things interesting.

Best value Items*:

  • McChicken ($1.49)
  • Cheeseburger ($1.49)
  • Any size soft drink ($1)
  • McDouble ($2.89)

Why it’s the best value: McDonald’s consistent pricing and variety on the value menu mean you can grab a filling meal without splurging. Their deals are a fast food legend for a reason.

Brigit tip: Download the McDonald’s app for exclusive daily deals and offers that can save you even more. You might score a free McFlurry or 20-piece McNuggets at a discount!

2. Taco Bell: Best bang for your buck on tacos

Taco Bell has long been a fast food favorite for cheap eats, and it’s no surprise why. Their value menu has some of the most filling, affordable items you can find, with a variety of tacos, burritos, and nachos that hit the spot without breaking the bank. Their famous Cravings Value Menu lets you mix and match your meal for under $5.

Best value Items*:

  • Beefy Fritos Burrito ($1)
  • Cheesy Roll-Up ($1)
  • Spicy Potato Soft Taco ($1)
  • Taco Bell Cravings Box (starting at $5)

Why it’s the best value: With hearty burritos, tacos, and even bowls for just a few bucks, you’ll leave full without spending much. Taco Bell is also great for customizing your meal with plenty of add-ons that keep it budget-friendly.

Brigit tip: Taco Bell’s Cravings Box is a steal, letting you bundle an entrée, side, and drink for just $5. And if you sign up for their rewards app, you can get even more free food!

3. Wendy’s: High-quality fast food at low prices

Wendy’s has built a reputation for offering fresh, high-quality burgers and chicken at reasonable prices. Their 4 for $4 deal is legendary in the fast food world and continues to be one of the best combo meal deals out there. You can snag a sandwich, chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink—all for $4. They’ve also got the Biggie Bag for $5 if you’re feeling extra hungry.

Best value Items*:

  • Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger ($1.99)
  • Crispy Chicken Sandwich ($1.99)
  • 4 for $4 Meal (sandwich, nuggets, fries, drink)
  • Biggie Bag ($5 for sandwich, nuggets, fries, drink)

Why it’s the best value: Wendy’s offers great portion sizes for the price, and their 4 for $4 and Biggie Bag combos are some of the best deals in fast food. You get a lot of variety for a low price, and the food quality is consistently high.

Brigit tip: Wendy’s app offers free items and exclusive deals, like free nuggets with any purchase or discounts on combo meals. Keep an eye out for limited-time offers, too!

4. Chick-fil-A: Quality chicken at a fair price

While Chick-fil-A isn’t the cheapest fast food chain on this list, it offers great value for the quality of its food. Known for their crispy chicken sandwiches and waffle fries, Chick-fil-A delivers a consistently delicious experience. Their customer service and clean restaurants add to the overall value, even if their menu is a bit pricier than competitors.

Best value items*:

  • Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich ($4.39)
  • 8-count Chicken Nuggets ($4.99)
  • Waffle Fries (Medium) ($2.49)
  • Chicken Biscuit (breakfast, $3.19)

Why it’s the best value: Chick-fil-A may not be dollar-menu cheap, but what you pay for is pretty decent quality—juicy chicken and great sauces. So if quality matters to you, Chick-fil-A offers fantastic value for your money.

Brigit tip: The Chick-fil-A app lets you earn points for every purchase, and it racks up fast! Redeem points for free sandwiches, drinks, and more.

5. Subway: Best budget-friendly subs

Subway is the go-to for those looking for a fresh, made-to-order sandwich without spending too much. Their famous $5 Footlong deal may be a thing of the past, but Subway still offers great value with their daily deals and affordable six-inch subs. Their Sub of the Day promo lets you snag a different sandwich each day of the week for around $3-4.

Best value items*:

  • Sub of the Day (varies by location, around $3.99)
  • Veggie Delite Six-Inch ($4.49)
  • Spicy Italian Six-Inch ($5.29)

Why it’s the best value: Subway’s option to customize your sandwich with unlimited veggies and a variety of sauces makes it a filling, healthy, and affordable choice. The Sub of the Day deal is perfect for variety without spending a ton.

Brigit tip: Join Subway’s rewards program to earn points on every purchase you can redeem for free subs. And don’t forget to load up on the free veggies to make your sandwich more substantial!


*prices limited to participating locations.