What $5 Gets You at the Top Fast Food Chains
With prices rising across menus, scoring a satisfying fast food meal for $5 might seem impossible—but it’s still doable if you know where to look. From value menus to mix-and-match deals, several major chains continue to offer meals, snacks, or bundles that fit a tight budget. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a late-night bite, here’s what $5 can still get you at top fast food restaurants in 2025.
- Taco Bell
Taco Bell remains one of the best bets for budget eaters. Their Cravings Value Menu features items starting at $1, and you can easily build a full meal with a burrito, taco, and drink for under $5.
Try the Beefy 5-Layer Burrito ($2.49) + Cheesy Roll-Up ($1.00) + small fountain drink ($1.79).
Explore Taco Bell’s value menu - McDonald’s
The McDonald’s App Deals offer rotating discounts like $1 any size fries, $1.99 Happy Meals, or $0.50 double cheeseburgers (app-exclusive). Combine two or three deals and stay under $5 with ease.
Download the McDonald’s app - Wendy’s
Wendy’s 4 for $4 deal was a classic, but now most locations offer a $5 Biggie Bag, which includes a sandwich, 4-piece nuggets, fries, and a drink. It’s arguably the best complete meal under $5 still available at a major chain. - Burger King
Burger King offers a rotating 2 for $5 Mix & Match deal, often featuring Whopper Jr., Chicken Fries, and other favorites. Some app deals drop single sandwiches to under $3.
View Burger King deals - Little Caesars
Little Caesars keeps things simple. While prices vary by location, the Classic Hot-N-Ready Pepperoni Pizza is often available for $5.55, just over the $5 mark but a full meal for one or two. You can also grab a side like Crazy Bread and a drink and stay close to budget.
Order from Little Caesars - Jack in the Box
Jack’s Value Jack’s Way menu includes tacos, cheeseburgers, and mini churros starting at $1 each. A pair of tacos and a chicken sandwich can still clock in under $5 in many markets.
Explore Jack in the Box deals - Subway
While Subway’s regular subs have gone up in price, 6-inch sandwich promotions still pop up in the app. Occasionally, you can snag a 6-inch Sweet Onion Teriyaki or Black Forest Ham sub for around $4.99 through mobile-exclusive offers.
Subway MVP Rewards - Dunkin’
Dunkin’s Wake-Up Wraps, donuts, and small hot or iced coffees can be mixed and matched to create a breakfast under $5. Pair a sausage wake-up wrap ($2.49) with a classic donut ($1.49) and a small coffee ($1.99 with app deals). - Popeyes
Occasional $4.99 box meals appear in the app or via limited-time offers. These typically include 2 pieces of chicken, a biscuit, and a side. Availability may vary by region.
Visit Popeyes - Checkers & Rally’s
This chain still holds strong with a 2 for $5 deal and regular app coupons. Pick two sandwiches or mix a sandwich with fries or a drink.
Tips to Stay Under Budget
- Use mobile apps to access exclusive pricing
- Check local offers—some value menus vary by region
- Combine low-cost menu items to build your own bundle
- Pay with a gift card from a cashback app like Fluz to stretch your dollar further without changing what you order
Conclusion
Fast food under $5 isn’t extinct—you just have to know where and how to look. By leveraging mobile app deals, sticking to value menus, and pairing smart payment tools like digital gift cards, you can still grab a filling meal without overspending. From Taco Bell’s bundles to Wendy’s Biggie Bag, there’s budget-friendly flavor waiting at almost every drive-thru window.
