1. In-N-Out
2. Wendy’s
3. Burger King
4. Jack in the Box
5. Taco Bell
6. Chili’s
7. Del Taco
8. Applebee’s
9. Costco Food Court
10. Local Diners

McDonald's might still be the king of convenience and nostalgia, but there's no denying it’s become much pricier over the years—particularly for those not leveraging the app's deals. While it remains a fast food icon in the U.S. and around the world, customer visits are on the decline, marking the steepest dip in sales since 2022. With inflation tightening wallets and regional pricing disparities affecting what you pay, some diners feel like they’re no longer getting their money’s worth at the Golden Arches. For instance, a Big Mac Combo in Los Angeles will set you back $12.72 after tax, while other spots offer more generous portions or tastier meals at lower prices. Here's a roundup of 11 spots that customers believe offer more value for your dollar.

1. In-N-Out

For those on the West Coast, In-N-Out is not just a burger joint—it’s a beloved institution. The chain has built a reputation for quality ingredients, made-to-order freshness, and relatively low prices. In Hollywood, Los Angeles, you can get a Double-Double Combo, complete with fries and a drink, for $12.02 including tax—slightly under what you’d pay for a Big Mac meal at McDonald’s.

2. Wendy’s

Wendy’s continues to make value a cornerstone of its brand with the Biggie Bag—a meal deal that includes a Double Stack burger, 4-piece chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink, all for just $7. And depending on where you are, the deal can be even cheaper.

3. Burger King

Burger King isn’t shy about competing directly with McDonald’s, and its current value deals are turning heads. With offers like 2 items for $5 or 3 for $7, customers can mix and match from a selection that includes the Whopper Jr., Original Chicken Sandwich, bacon cheeseburger, fries, chicken fries, and drinks. These deals can feed a family at a fraction of the price of McDonald's.

4. Jack in the Box

Known for its quirky marketing and wide-ranging menu, Jack in the Box is another chain providing strong competition with its $5 Big Deal Meal. Fans of the chain have shared experiences comparing similar orders at McDonald’s and Jack, noting significant differences in value.

5. Taco Bell

Taco Bell remains a juggernaut in the value department, thanks to menu items that allow you to piece together a filling meal for just a few dollars. Their $5 Luxe Cravings Box is a prime example, offering much more food than McDonald’s similarly priced meal deals.

6. Chili’s

Though it falls more into the fast-casual category, Chili’s has become a surprising alternative for those who want more food for their money. Many customers are realizing that sit-down dining prices are now on par with—or even cheaper than—fast food chains.

7. Del Taco

Del Taco, often overshadowed by bigger names, offers solid value meals like the $5 El Big Box. Customers have praised the chain for keeping prices steady in a time of economic uncertainty.

8. Applebee’s

Like Chili’s, Applebee’s blurs the line between casual dining and fast food pricing. And in many cases, it comes out ahead. With combo meals priced competitively, many diners find it’s worth the slight wait for better service and food quality.

9. Costco Food Court

Long praised for its unbeatable food court prices, Costco remains a haven for frugal eaters. Staples like the $1.50 hot dog and soda combo continue to draw comparisons with fast food chains—often unfavorably for the latter.

10. Local Diners

Local diners are giving fast food a run for its money, especially in smaller towns and urban neighborhoods. These independent spots often serve freshly made meals with real ingredients at prices that match or beat McDonald’s. One Redditor explained the tipping point clearly: 'There is a point where fast food burgers cost as much as a well made burger & fries at a local diner using fresh ingredients. We are close to that now. I'm not willing to pay $15+ for a McDonald's quarter pounder and fries.'