Even though it will never be able to sample a drive-thru burger combo or know what it’s like to handle a piping-hot burrito after a long day at work, ChatGPT still remains a viable resource on questions related to the fast-food business.
That’s is precisely why the commonly asked question of “Which fast-food chain is actually cheapest now?” was offered up to the artificial intelligence (AI) model, with U.S. consumers having noted for some time now that quick-service restaurants have been struggling to offer the same value proposition that they had in times past.
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In fact, ChatGPT was quick to reference a LendingTree study (via FOX13 Tampa Bay) that underlined the fact that the average cost of a basic fast-food meal was $11.56 across major U.S. cities — and 80% of American consumers now view fast food as a “luxury.”
With that context in mind, here’s what ChatGPT had to say on the matter of the cheapest fast-food restaurants in America.
ChatGPT: Taco Bell Is the Cheapest Fast-Food Chain in 2025
When it comes to crowning the cheapest fast-food chain in 2025, ChatGPT wasted no time in awarding Taco Bell its laurels.
Citing an Eat This, Not That report that relied upon data from Kasinohai, the AI model indicated that Taco Bell offered “unbeatable value” compared with its peers, being the most affordable across six categories: breakfast, fries, nuggets, desserts, value items and signature menu items.
It singled out a few meals, like the breakfast crunchwrap (sausage) at just $0.63 per 100 calories, as well as the nacho fries at $0.75 per 100 calories before pivoting to a broader overview.
“Taco Bell consistently leveraged its Cravings Box ($5-$9) and Value Menu with items starting as low as $1 for affordability,” ChatGPT wrote.
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Other Fast-Food Chains That Made the List
Pulling from a recent Delish article, ChatGPT went on to list four more iconic fast-food restaurants stateside that could contend for Taco Bell’s position at No. 1.
First up, Jack in the Box was named for its longstanding “two tacos for $0.99” offering in addition to its Jack’s Munchies Under $4 selections, with a definite emphasis on the former.
Wendy’s received accolades for its $5 Biggie Bag, complete with a choice of sandwich, four-piece chicken nuggets, fries and a beverage. And Dairy Queen registered in similar fashion for its $7 Meal Deal, swapping out the nuggets for a sweet treat in the form of a sundae.
Finally, McDonald’s made the list, despite a wave of negative PR last year (as outlined by CNBC) that spurred the reintroduction of a $5 Meal Deal to placate cash-strapped fast-food fans. Alongside that $5 value meal, “buy one, get one” BOGO deals put forth by the red-and-yellow brand spurred ChatGPT to add McDonald’s to its ranking.
As for Burger King, Popeyes and other famous fast-food players? “While they offer periodic promotions, they tend to sit slightly higher in average cost,” ChatGPT concluded.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked ChatGPT Which Fast-Food Chain Is Actually Cheapest Now: Here’s What It Said
