Study Reveals Americans Are Spending Shocking Amounts on McDonald’s — Especially Through Delivery Apps
Americans are paying more than ever for fast food — especially if they’re ordering McDonald’s through delivery apps. A new nationwide study by financial technology company Self found that the cost of a typical McDonald’s order has ballooned over the past two years, with third-party apps driving prices significantly higher.
By comparing prices in the 100 largest U.S. cities across DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, the researchers aimed to capture just how much more people are shelling out for the convenience of delivery.
The order used in the study was the same in every city:
A Big Mac Combo Meal
A Quarter Pounder with Cheese Deluxe Large Meal
A 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets Happy Meal
A Hamburger Happy Meal
In 2025, the average cost of that order at a McDonald’s location was $36.95 — a 23.7% increase since 2023. But when the same meal was ordered through delivery apps, the average price jumped to $62.36, representing a 7.8% increase from two years ago and nearly doubling the in-store cost.
Delivery fees, service fees, local taxes, and tips were all factored into the totals, offering a real-world look at what customers are actually paying. The study even found city-by-city price differences of up to $33.88.
Among the three major platforms analyzed:
DoorDash was the priciest, averaging $63.21 — a 71.1% markup over restaurant pricing.
Uber Eats followed closely at $62.60, with a 69.4% increase.
Grubhub was the “cheapest” at $61.26, but still represented a 65.8% markup.
Though delivery prices are rising, one silver lining is that the average markup over in-store pricing has actually dropped compared to 2023. That year, the average delivery markup was a whopping 93.8%. In 2025, it has decreased to 68.6%, thanks in part to more competitive pricing and fluctuating fees.
The most cost-effective way to enjoy your McDonald’s favorites remains the old-fashioned one: picking it up in person. The study emphasized that delivery should be considered a luxury — especially when ordering multiple meals.
