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Are you craving fast food but want to keep your spending in check? Fast food is packed with flavors and ingredients that make us feel good, from calories and sugars to fats. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the most affordable fast-food chains so you can enjoy a tasty meal without overspending. Whether you’re in the mood for classic burgers and fries or something more unique, this guide has something for everyone.
Chick-fil-A
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Chick-fil-A is known for its chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and waffle fries. While Chick-fil-A is often seen as a premium fast-food option, they offer several affordable menu items that won’t break the bank. They also offer breakfast items like the Chick-n-Minis at a reasonable price.
Related: 30 Chicken Recipes That Will Quickly Become Family Favorites
In-N-Out Burger
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In-N-Out Burger takes the top spot as one of the most affordable fast food options in the U.S. In-N-Out offers budget-friendly comfort food like burgers, fries, and shakes, with items starting as low as $0.99.
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Domino’s
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Domino’s is a global pizza chain known for its fast delivery and wide range of pizza options. It frequently offers deals where you can grab pizzas, wings, pasta, or other items for an extremely low price. It even has a rewards program, allowing you to earn points towards free pizza, making it an even more economical choice for pizza lovers.
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Starbucks
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While often associated with coffee, Starbucks is also a fast-food establishment. Starbucks offers baked goods, sandwiches, and snacks.
IKEA
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IKEA is another surprising option for low-cost, fast food. Their menu includes Swedish meatballs, pizza, and other cheap food items. Perfect for indulging after hours of shopping in their showroom.
Chipotle
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Chipotle is another Mexican-inspired restaurant with burritos, bowls, quesadillas, and salads. It is a great option for those seeking healthier fast food options.
Carl’s Jr.
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Carl’s Jr., also known as Hardee’s in some regions, is famous for its charbroiled burgers and hearty meals. They offer value menu items, including breakfast burritos and chicken sandwiches.
Sonic
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Sonic is a drive-in fast-food chain with inexpensive menu options, from sandwiches to wraps and burgers. It is most notably known for its wide selection of milkshakes.
Dunkin’
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Dunkin’, formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts, is a recognized donut and coffee chain but they offer a variety of breakfast sandwiches and beverages.
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KFC
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Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is a staple in the fast-food industry, particularly for those who love fried chicken. In addition to chicken, KFC is best known for its biscuits. It is one of the most affordable full-meal options in fast food.
Burger King
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Burger King is another major player in the fast-food world, known for its flame-grilled burgers like the Whopper.
Subway
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Subway offers a healthier fast-food alternative with its customizable sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Known for its value-oriented deals like the $5 Footlong , Subway allows you to create a meal that fits your budget and dietary preferences.
Arby’s
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Arby’s is famous for its roast beef sandwiches but offers many other menu items, including chicken sandwiches, sliders, and curly fries. Their value menu includes several affordable options, perfect for those who enjoy a hearty meal on a budget.
Popeyes
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Popeyes is best known for its crispy fried chicken and famous chicken sandwich. It offers a variety of reasonably priced combo meals. If you’re looking to feed a group or just indulge in some Southern-style comfort food, Popeyes is a great choice for a cheap meal.
Jack in the Box
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Jack in the Box is a West Coast favorite known for its diverse menu, which includes everything from burgers and tacos to breakfast items and salads. Their value menu features numerous items starting at just $1.
Checkers
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Checkers is another value fast-food chain specializing in burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Known for its bold flavors and generous portions, it is a great spot for budget-friendly fast food.
El Pollo Loco
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El Pollo Loco specializes in flame-grilled chicken and offers a variety of affordable menu items, including tacos and burritos. Their family meals are excellent for feeding a group without breaking the bank.
Tim Hortons
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Tim Hortons is a beloved Canadian cafe and restaurant chain, and it’s expanding in the U.S. with over 500 locations.
Their menu includes coffee, teas, milkshakes, sandwiches, donuts, bagels, and other baked goods. You can enjoy a treat at Tim Hortons for as low as $0.66.
Taco Bell
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Taco Bell has become one of the most popular fast-food chains focusing on Mexican food. From tacos to quesadillas, you can get it all here.
Del Taco
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Del Taco is another top pick for Mexican fusion fast food. Their menu includes burgers, nachos, quesadillas, and shakes.
Costco
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Costco has an excellent food court offering some of the cheapest fast food. You can get a hot dog, pizza, and shakes at a ridiculously low price. While you have to be a member of Costco to participate, it is well worth the membership.
Wendy’s
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Wendy’s offers affordable menu items, including sandwiches, nuggets, burgers, and fries, many of which start at $0.99.
McDonald’s
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There’s no fast food list without a mention of McDonald’s. It is a global fast-food icon with an extensive menu that includes the Big Mac and other unique burger options.
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