The McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish is one of the most enduring items on the global fast-food menu. While the golden arches are primarily known for beef and chicken, this square-shaped Alaskan Pollock patty has carved out a loyal following that spans generations. Whether you are ordering it because of dietary preferences, religious observations, or simply a craving for that specific tangy tartar sauce, understanding the current pricing landscape is essential for any budget-conscious diner in 2026.
Prices at McDonald’s are no longer a static, nationwide figure. With the introduction of the McValue platform and the continued autonomy of individual franchisees, the answer to how much a fish sandwich costs depends heavily on your zip code, the time of year, and whether you are using the official mobile app.
Breaking Down the Cost of the Filet-O-Fish
As of early 2026, the average price for a standalone Filet-O-Fish sandwich in the United States typically falls between $5.59 and $5.99. However, in high-cost-of-living areas like New York City, San Francisco, or Honolulu, customers may see individual sandwich prices climbing toward $6.50. Conversely, in smaller Midwestern markets, you might still find the sandwich priced closer to the $5.25 mark.
For those with a larger appetite, the Double Filet-O-Fish—which features two fish patties instead of one—usually carries a premium. You can expect to pay approximately $8.19 for this heartier version. This price reflects the increase in high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood costs that the industry has navigated over the last several years.
The Cost of Filet-O-Fish Meals and Combos
Most customers prefer to pair their sandwich with a side and a drink. The standard Filet-O-Fish Extra Value Meal, which includes a medium fry and a medium soft drink, currently averages around $10.49. Again, this is subject to regional variation. In some competitive markets, McDonald’s has introduced specialized meal bundles through the McValue platform, sometimes bringing a “Small” version of the meal down to a price point of $6.39 to $6.99 to attract the lunch crowd.
It is worth noting that upgrading to “Large” fries and a drink will typically add another $0.80 to $1.20 to your total, depending on the specific franchise’s pricing tier. If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, the meal deals often provide a better relative value than purchasing the items separately.
How to Find the Best Deals and Discounts
In 2026, the smartest way to pay less for a McDonald’s fish sandwich is through digital tools. The McDonald’s mobile app frequently features “Buy One, Get One for $1” deals or specific coupons for a $3 Filet-O-Fish on certain days of the week.
Lent remains the peak season for the Filet-O-Fish. Between February and April, many locations run localized “Friday Specials” where the sandwich price may be significantly slashed to cater to the influx of customers abstaining from meat. Historically, some regions have offered two fish sandwiches for $6 or $7 during this window, though these promotions are now more commonly found as digital-only offers to encourage app adoption.
Factors Influencing Price Fluctuations
Several economic factors influence why your fish sandwich might cost more this year than it did last year.
- Sustainable Sourcing: McDonald’s uses 100% wild-caught Alaska Pollock that is Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified. The cost of maintaining these sustainability standards and protecting marine ecosystems can impact the wholesale price of the fish.
- Labor and Overhead: Minimum wage increases and rising utility costs for restaurants are often passed down to the consumer in the form of incremental menu price adjustments.
- Franchise Autonomy: About 95% of McDonald’s restaurants are independently owned. This means that while corporate provides “suggested” pricing, the owner of your local branch has the final say based on their specific operating costs.
Nutritional Value and Ingredients
When you pay for a Filet-O-Fish, you are getting a very specific assembly of ingredients that has remained largely unchanged for decades. The sandwich consists of a 100% wild-caught Alaska Pollock patty, a half-slice of pasteurized processed American cheese, and McDonald’s signature tartar sauce, all served on a soft, steamed bun.
Nutritionally, a single Filet-O-Fish contains approximately 380 to 400 calories. It provides 14 to 15 grams of protein and about 20 grams of fat. While it is often perceived as a “lighter” option compared to a Big Mac or a Quarter Pounder, the tartar sauce and breading do contribute to its caloric density. For those monitoring their sodium intake, the sandwich contains roughly 580mg to 600mg of sodium.
A Brief History of the Fish Sandwich
The Filet-O-Fish was the first non-hamburger menu item added to the McDonald’s national menu. It was invented in 1962 by Lou Groen, a franchisee in Cincinnati, Ohio. Groen’s restaurant was located in a predominantly Catholic neighborhood, and he was losing significant business on Fridays because his customers were not eating meat.
To save his business, he developed the breaded whitefish sandwich. He had to compete with Ray Kroc’s own idea, the “Hula Burger” (a slice of grilled pineapple and cheese on a bun). Kroc agreed to a sales competition: whichever sandwich sold more on a single Friday would stay on the menu. The Filet-O-Fish sold 350 sandwiches, while the Hula Burger sold only six. By 1965, the fish sandwich became a permanent fixture across the United States.
Regional Variations and International Pricing
The Filet-O-Fish is a global traveler. In Japan, you might find a version with a wasabi-infused sauce, while in some parts of the U.S. like Maryland and Virginia, McDonald’s has occasionally tested an Old Bay tartar sauce version.
Internationally, the price fluctuates based on currency exchange rates and local supply chains. For example, in Hong Kong, McDonald’s has made headlines for attempting to freeze the price of the fish sandwich at HK$14 during specific economic periods to maintain its status as an accessible value item. In Japan, the a la carte price typically hovers around 400 Yen.
Is the Filet-O-Fish Still a Good Value?
In the context of the 2026 fast-food market, the Filet-O-Fish remains a mid-tier value item. While it is no longer the $0.29 sandwich it was in 1965, it occupies a unique niche. It is one of the few consistent seafood options available at a drive-thru, and its MSC certification offers a level of ethical assurance that many other “cheap” fish options do not.
To get the most value, avoid ordering it at the counter without checking the app first. The difference between the “sticker price” and the “app price” can often be as much as 30% to 50%.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the average price of a Filet-O-Fish in 2026?
The average price for a standalone sandwich is between $5.59 and $5.99, though this varies by location and can be higher in major metropolitan cities.
-
Is the fish in the McDonald’s sandwich real?
Yes, McDonald’s uses 100% wild-caught Alaska Pollock. The fish is flaked and formed into the signature square patty before being breaded and flash-frozen for shipment to restaurants.
-
Why does the Filet-O-Fish only have a half-slice of cheese?
McDonald’s has officially stated that the half-slice of cheese is used to ensure the flavor of the cheese does not overwhelm the delicate taste of the fish. This has been the standard recipe since the sandwich’s inception.
-
Are there any vegetarian or vegan fish options at McDonald’s?
Currently, the Filet-O-Fish is not vegetarian or vegan. The patty is real fish, the tartar sauce contains egg yolks, and the bun contains dairy-derived ingredients. The sandwich is also cooked in the same area as other meat products in many kitchens.
-
Does McDonald’s offer a Double Filet-O-Fish?
Yes, the Double Filet-O-Fish is available at most locations. It features two fish patties and a full slice of cheese (usually split between the patties). It typically costs around $8.19.