Fast food is supposed to be quick, convenient, and affordable, but nowadays, that last part feels like a stretch. Across America, popular chains are quietly becoming more and more expensive, charging gourmet-level prices for meals that don’t always deliver on value.
Whether it’s a $20 burger combo or a smoothie that costs as much or even more than a full lunch, customers are starting to question what they’re really paying for. Is it quality, branding, or just inflation? From shrinking portions to rising costs, let’s take a look at nine American fast food chains that cost too much for what they offer.
1. Five Guys – $20 for a burger, fries, and regrets.
While Five Guys never claimed to be a cheap burger spot, their prices still catch many people off guard. Usually, a standard burger, small fries, and a drink from this popular chain exceeds $18, even before tax.
Yeah, it is good quality, and they give you a ton of fries, but many customers often walk away wondering if it was really worth the price. For a place that doesn’t have a drive-thru, offers no combos, and no ambiance, it’s a luxury burger priced like a weekend treat, not a weekday meal.
2. Shake Shack – Fine-dining prices… for fine-print portions.
Shake Shack gives off a premium fast-food vibe with its stylish branding, eco-friendly packaging, and modern menu design. But even devoted fans admit the portions can be underwhelming.
Just a single burger, one side, and a milkshake can cost more than $18, with many diners disappointed by the size-to-price ratio. Though the food is good, feeling hungry one hour after a meal is never good.
3. Chick-fil-A – Iconic chicken, increasingly expensive combos.
Chick-fil-A has a devoted following, and many customers will say that it is worth every cent, especially when it comes to the iconic chicken sandwich. However, a combo meal with fries and a drink can cost over $12, sometimes closer to $14 in some cities.
While the chain is known for its good service and fast-moving lines, the growing prices clash with the brand’s former budget-friendly image. Could this beloved chain be slipping into premium territory under our noses?
4. Subway – The $5 Footlong is a relic of the past.
There was a time when Subway’s catchy jingle promised value and volume, but that era is long gone. Today, thanks to inflation and corporate rebranding, a classic footlong sandwich often costs between $10 to $15 with upgraded protein or extras.
The chain’s freshness has also been questioned, with many customers raising eyebrows over ingredient sourcing and quality. What was once praised as a healthy lunch option now feels like a fast-food brand stuck between budget and boutique, with prices that reflect the confusion.
5. Panera Bread – Light lunch, heavy bill.
Panera is the perfect place for a thoughtful meal with its calm music, cozy booths, and a menu built on YouTube health trends. However, a simple salad and soup combo can cost between $16 to $18, and let’s not even talks about the overpriced drinks or pastries.
For families and students with a tight budget, this chain is unsustainable. While its branding whispers wellness and transparency, the price tag screams “fancy deli.”
6. Jamba – Health food or financial misstep?
Usually, a smoothie wouldn’t cost the same as a whole cheeseburger, but at Jamba, it does. A medium-sized shake or cleanse blend can cost over $9, especially if you add protein or vitamin boosters.
While it might feel like you’re drinking something that’s healthier for you, many of the chain’s options are packed with sugar and artificial syrups.
7. Chipotle – Where guac is always extra… and so is everything else.
At a time, Chipotle was the best deal in town, with a huge burrito costing under $8. But now, a simple bowl can cost over $16, especially with extras like guac, queso, or double meat.
People have also been complaining about the portions, claiming that their meals are shrinking while costs climb. The food is still incredible, but many wonder if it’s still worth the hype.
8. Mooyah – Premium burger, stealthy sticker shock.
You might not be familiar with Mooyah, but if you walk in expecting normal fast-food pricing, brace yourself. This chain is known for its build-your-own burgers, but its meals can sometimes cost between $18 and $20.
It’s a tasty concept with a touch of gourmet appeal, but the price tag often catches first-timers off guard.
9. Starbucks – It’s not even a full meal, yet here we are.
While Starbucks isn’t technically a fast food chain, a lot of people like to order their breakfast sandwiches and drinks to-go. But it is surprisingly expensive.
A Venti latte, croissant sandwich, and snack can reach as high as $20. That’s fine once in a while, but for something that’s not even a proper meal, it’s really pricy.