12 of the Cheapest Fast-Food Chains + Get Coupons and Deals
Eating tasty food on-the-go or with your family doesn't have to break the bank. Here are 12 of the cheapest fast-food chains to enjoy right now.
Food prices are on the rise so while eating at home can be more economical, sometimes you just need that break and want the ease and convenience of fast food. No shame here — I do it! My sanity just requires it some days. So how do you feed yourself or your family without breaking the bank? Can you make affordable choices when eating fast food? Yes, I think so! Read on to find out how.
I do want to note that from an affordability standpoint, pizza is king. It hands down feeds more people with less money. That being said, we’re going to focus on popular fast food restaurant chains.
(Just a reminder that prices can vary by location, so do your homework and price check too!)
Here are 12 of the cheapest fast-food chains that often offer some of the best fast-food coupons and family meal deals under $20.
1. Taco Bell
Tacos stand out because they offer a more affordable price due to the low cost of production and goods. Taco Bell has a cravings menu where every item on it is $3 or under. For example, you can get a Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito for $1.59, a Double Stacked Taco for $1.99, and a 3 Cheese Chicken Flatbread Melt for $2.39. So you’ll want to check that out. If you’re feeding a crowd, you might consider a taco 12 pack for $21.99. That breaks down to $1.83 per taco.
Taco Bell Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
2. Del Taco
For the same reason Taco Bell makes our list, so does Del Taco. Del Taco offers a section on the menu called Del’s Real Deal$ and all items are priced are $2 or under. They also have El BIG Boxes priced at $5, $7, and $9 for filling meals. Make sure you’re enrolled in Del! Yeah Rewards to save even more and earn points for FREE food.
Del Taco Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
3. White Castle
White Castle is known for its crave-able sliders. You can literally grab a Cheesy Sack of 10 for $7.99! That’s just 79¢ each. The Craver Nation Rewards Club can offer additional savings as well as FREE food. When you sign up, you’ll get $5 off your first mobile order when using the app. That will cut your cost fast!
White Castle Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
4. Starbucks
Starbucks probably doesn’t come to mind first, but when you join the Starbucks Rewards program you can score deals like $3 drink offers. Your membership will also earn you free drinks and birthday rewards. For example, if you make a qualifying purchase within one week of signing up, you’ll get a free handcrafted drink. For food, look for the pairing menu to get a tall coffee or tea with a croissant for about $5, or with a breakfast sandwich for around $6.
Starbucks Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
5. McDonald's
McDonald’s offers McValue Meal Deals starting at $5. That’s a sandwich, 4 piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries and your choice of a small soft drink. The MyMcDonald's Rewards program can save you even more with its discounts and allow you to earn FREE food as well.
McDonald's Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
6. IKEA Swedish Restaurant and Bistro
I’m sure IKEA isn’t one to come to mind first, but IKEA loyalty members score 50% off all adult entrées Monday to Friday. Entrees run around $8.99, so that’s savings worth checking out! Another cheap eat at IKEA is their hot dogs. A single hot dog is 75¢, 10 dogs for $5, 25 for $12.50, or even 78 for $39.
IKEA Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
7. Chipotle
At Chipotle, the burrito bowl is a stand out for a bountiful meal at an affordable price starting at just $10. The more you add or the more premium toppings you add, the price will increase, but this is truly a filling option, and healthy too. Being a Chipotle Rewards member will get you more, as this summer members are getting extras for FREE. Be sure to check that out.
Chipotle Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
8. Costco Cafeteria
Costco may come as a surprise to many…but not Costco Members! The food court offers a hot dog and soda combo for $1.50, a slice of pepperoni or cheese pizza for $1.99, or a chicken bake for $3.99. See, it is definitely affordable. Granted, you do have to be a member, but we love our Costco shopping!
11 Things Costco Members Can Get for Free Included In Their Membership.
Costco Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
9. Wendy's
Wendy’s offers a $5 Biggie Bag that features a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger, Crispy Chicken Sandwich, or Double Stack for the sandwich, nuggs, fries, and a drink. I can’t go to Wendy’s and not get a Frosty, so you’ll be glad to know you can substitute your drink for a Frosty. (Yes, you know that’s what I do!) And again, join Wendy’s Rewards and get $3 off $15+ via in-app offer to save even more.
Wendy's Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
10. Burger King
You can’t overlook the home of the Whopper! When you order online or in the app, you’ll have access to discounts and meal deals that will save you some green. Currently, you can score FREE fries with a $3 purchase, get a Whopper for $3.99 on Wednesdays, BOGO Chicken Sandwiches, and a bundled meal deal for $22 that feeds up to 4 people. This IS the way to enjoy dinner with BK.
Burger King Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
11. Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box features Jack’s Munchie Menu with options under $4. Enjoy a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for $2.99, a Jr. Jumbo Jack for $2.59, or a Sourdough Grilled Cheese for $1.99…just to name a few. You can also pick up Jack's Big Deal Meal for $6, which includes a sandwich, fries, and a drink. If you’re aiming for breakfast, consider the 2 for $6 Breakfast Jack Wraps. They are yummy!
Jack in the Box Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
12. Checker's
Checker's (also known as Rally’s in some areas of the country) currently offers a GloRilla’s $4 Unbeatable Meal Deal. This deal includes your choice of a Cheese Double, a Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or the Glo’s BBQ Jacked Burger along with a value-sized order of their Famous Seasoned Fries, a 16 oz soft drink, and a cinnamon Apple Pie. Yes, dinner AND dessert! I also wanted to note that you can sign up for their rewards program to get a BOGO Sandwich deal or text QUICK to 88001 to get a FREE Big Buford.
Checker's Coupons, Deals, and Promo Codes
While this list covers fast-food dine-in options, using DoorDash is another great way to get some of the best fast-food deals. With the DoorDash delivery app, you get exclusive coupons and promotions that making getting the cheapest fast-food even cheaper.
For more tasty deals and steals, be sure to check our Food & Drink Coupons page or our updated guide on the Big List of 110 Restaurants to Get Free Food. To catch all the latest promotions, be sure to sign up for our daily newsletter.
Cheapest Fast-Food: FAQ’s
What is the cheapest fast-food restaurant in the USA?
According to national statistics, it’s Taco Bell. They can offer a more affordable price due to the low cost of production and goods. Hamburger meat has increased and bread is now much more expensive than it used to be, which leaves burger chains having to make up for those increases.
Is Burger King cheaper than McDonald's?
The burger chains are really neck and neck. You can tell from the list we put together, that they all offer affordable options and deals and that you can’t really go wrong with any of them. The price difference is negligible and you can simply let your taste buds lead the way.
Where might I find fast food savings?
As you might have noticed as you read along, many fast food restaurants have created their own rewards programs which offer more deals, but also ways to earn free foods. These are always beneficial and you should use them to your advantage! It doesn’t take but a moment to sign up. So even if your favorite fast food joint didn’t make this list, go visit their website and see if they might have such a program.
